Open source Firebase alternative with PostgreSQL database, authentication, storage, and realtime
Supabase gives you PostgreSQL with authentication, storage, and realtime—all in one platform. Firebase simplicity with SQL power.
Supabase is my default recommendation for new projects. Full PostgreSQL means no compromises on query capability. The auth and storage save weeks of development time.
Real PostgreSQL - Not a proprietary database. Full SQL, extensions, foreign keys. Everything you know about PostgreSQL works. Migrate in or out easily.
Authentication Built-In - Social auth, magic links, phone auth—all configured in minutes. Row Level Security integrates auth with data access. No separate auth service needed.
Real-Time Subscriptions - Subscribe to database changes. Build real-time apps without separate infrastructure. PostgreSQL triggers power real-time updates.
Open Source - Self-host if needed. No vendor lock-in. Contribute to the platform. Know exactly what you’re running.
Platform is newer than Firebase—some features are still maturing. Scaling very large applications requires PostgreSQL expertise. Ecosystem smaller than Firebase.
| Factor | Supabase | Firebase |
|---|---|---|
| Database | PostgreSQL | NoSQL |
| Open Source | Yes | No |
| Query Power | Full SQL | Limited |
| Real-Time | Built-in | Built-in |
| Best For | SQL lovers | Simple apps |
Supabase is the best choice for developers who want PostgreSQL power with Firebase convenience. The free tier is generous enough to build real applications.