AuthDecision Guide
Firebase Auth vs Supabase Auth
Both provide comprehensive auth solutions. Firebase has more social providers. Supabase integrates tightly with PostgreSQL.
Quick Verdict
Choose Firebase Auth if...
- You need many social login providers
- You're using other Firebase services
- You need phone authentication
- You want mature, battle-tested auth
- You need anonymous authentication
Choose Supabase Auth if...
- You're using Supabase for database
- You want auth tied to PostgreSQL rows
- You prefer simpler pricing
- You want Row Level Security integration
- Open-source matters to you
Side-by-Side Comparison
Feature
Firebase Auth
Supabase Auth
Social Providers
Many (Google, Apple, etc.)
Common providers
Phone Auth
Built-in
Via third-party
Email/Password
Yes
Yes
Magic Links
Yes
Yes
Anonymous Auth
Yes
Limited
MFA
Yes
Yes
Database Integration
Separate
Tight (RLS)
Self-hosting
No
Yes
Pricing
Free tier, then per MAU
Included in plan
Custom Claims
Yes
Via metadata
Decision Checklist
Ask yourself these questions to guide your decision:
1Which database are you using?
2Do you need phone/SMS authentication?
3How many social providers do you need?
4Is self-hosting a requirement?
5Do you need Row Level Security?
6What is your expected user count?
7Do you need anonymous authentication?
8Is tight database integration important?
Tradeoffs & Gotchas
Firebase Auth has more social providers
Supabase Auth integrates with RLS naturally
Firebase Auth pricing can add up at scale
Supabase Auth is included in database pricing
Firebase Auth is more mature
Supabase Auth user data lives in PostgreSQL
Firebase Auth works without Firebase database
Supabase Auth is designed for Supabase ecosystem
Our Recommendation
Pick Firebase Auth for apps needing many social logins
Pick Supabase Auth if using Supabase database
Pick Firebase Auth for phone number authentication
Pick Supabase Auth for PostgreSQL-based access control
Pick Firebase Auth for anonymous user tracking
Pick Supabase Auth for simpler pricing model
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use Firebase Auth with Supabase database?
Yes, but you lose Row Level Security integration. You'd need to verify tokens manually.
Which is more secure?
Both are secure when configured properly. Firebase has longer track record. Supabase is newer but well-designed.
Can I migrate users between them?
Possible but complex. Password hashes may not transfer. Plan auth choice early.
Which is better for mobile apps?
Firebase Auth has more mature mobile SDKs. Supabase mobile support is improving rapidly.
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