BackendDecision Guide
Firebase vs Supabase
Firebase is Google's mature BaaS with NoSQL. Supabase is the open-source alternative with PostgreSQL. Both reduce backend work significantly.
Quick Verdict
Choose Firebase if...
- You prefer NoSQL/document databases
- You need real-time sync out of the box
- You want mature mobile SDKs
- You're already in the Google Cloud ecosystem
- You need Firebase-specific features (ML Kit, etc.)
Choose Supabase if...
- You prefer SQL and relational data
- You want an open-source solution
- You need complex queries and joins
- You want to avoid vendor lock-in
- You prefer PostgreSQL ecosystem tools
Side-by-Side Comparison
Feature
Firebase
Supabase
Database
Firestore (NoSQL)
PostgreSQL (SQL)
Query Language
SDK methods
SQL
Real-time
Built-in, excellent
Built-in, good
Authentication
Comprehensive
Comprehensive
Storage
Cloud Storage
S3-compatible
Functions
Cloud Functions
Edge Functions
Open Source
No
Yes
Self-hosting
No
Yes
Pricing Model
Pay per operation
Predictable tiers
Vendor Lock-in
Higher
Lower
Decision Checklist
Ask yourself these questions to guide your decision:
1Do you prefer SQL or NoSQL databases?
2Is vendor lock-in a concern?
3Do you need complex relational queries?
4What is your expected data structure?
5Do you need to self-host?
6What is your budget model preference?
7Do you need specific Firebase features?
8Is your team familiar with PostgreSQL?
Tradeoffs & Gotchas
Firebase NoSQL can lead to data denormalization
Supabase SQL requires schema design upfront
Firebase pricing can spike with reads/writes
Supabase has more predictable pricing
Firebase has more mature mobile SDKs
Supabase allows data export and migration
Firebase real-time is battle-tested at scale
Supabase gives full PostgreSQL power
Our Recommendation
Pick Firebase for rapid prototyping with flexible schema
Pick Supabase for relational data with complex queries
Pick Firebase if already using Google Cloud
Pick Supabase if open-source matters to you
Pick Firebase for mobile-first apps with offline sync
Pick Supabase for data-heavy applications needing SQL
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper?
Depends on usage. Firebase charges per operation. Supabase has predictable tiers. Calculate based on your expected usage patterns.
Can I migrate between them?
Migration requires data transformation since they use different database types. Plan data modeling carefully upfront.
Which has better auth?
Both have comprehensive auth. Firebase has more social providers built-in. Supabase auth is simpler and PostgreSQL-integrated.
Which is better for startups?
Both work well. Firebase is faster to start. Supabase is easier to scale and migrate away from if needed.
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Ready to start?
Need help deciding?
Every project is different. Let us analyze your specific requirements and recommend the best approach.