Head-to-Head Comparison
Supabase vs Firebase: Open Source vs Google?
Supabase is an open-source Postgres-based backend with SQL power, while Firebase offers a mature NoSQL ecosystem with excellent Google integration. Supabase for relational data, Firebase for real-time and mobile.
Last updated: 2025-01
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Category | Supabase | Firebase |
|---|---|---|
| Best For | Relational data | Mobile apps |
| Learning Curve | Medium | Easy |
| Pricing | Generous free tier | Pay as you go |
| Database Type | PostgreSQL | NoSQL (Firestore) |
| Self-hosting | Yes | No |
| Real-time | Good | Excellent |
| Auth | Built-in | Built-in |
Supabase
- Best For
- Relational data
- Learning Curve
- Medium
- Pricing
- Generous free tier
- Database Type
- PostgreSQL
- Self-hosting
- Yes
- Real-time
- Good
- Auth
- Built-in
Firebase
- Best For
- Mobile apps
- Learning Curve
- Easy
- Pricing
- Pay as you go
- Database Type
- NoSQL (Firestore)
- Self-hosting
- No
- Real-time
- Excellent
- Auth
- Built-in
Winner by Category
Best for Beginners
FirebaseMore tutorials and simpler NoSQL model
Best for Customisation
SupabaseFull SQL access and self-hosting option
Best for Speed
FirebaseFaster setup for simple apps
Best for Learning
SupabaseTeaches proper database design
Best Value
SupabaseMore generous free tier
Our Recommendation
Choose Firebase for mobile-first apps and real-time features. Pick Supabase for complex queries and if you value open source.
When to Choose Each Tool
1
Choose Supabase
Building web apps with relational data
2
Choose Firebase
Mobile apps or need Google ecosystem
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