DATA & AUTH
Supabase vs Convex for Data and Realtime Apps
Start with how the app reads and updates data. Supabase gives you Postgres; Convex puts reactive queries and mutations in TypeScript server functions, which changes where the application logic lives.
On this page
SupabaseMap queries, live updates and a future move
01Compare SQL access with a function-based data model.
02Both support realtime use cases through different mechanisms.
03A future move includes functions, identities and subscriptions, not only rows.
Start with one practical task
Build one list that two users can change. Check how updates reach both clients, where access is enforced and how you would export the records if you moved later.
Data model and query ownership
Supabase exposes Postgres with SQL and its ecosystem. Convex uses document-relational data and server functions for queries and mutations. Compare the queries your app needs, team familiarity and where authorization logic will live.
Realtime is a design choice
Convex reruns dependent queries and updates subscribers. Supabase Realtime separately offers Broadcast, Presence and Postgres Changes. Compare the actual live interface you need rather than claiming one platform lacks realtime.
Plan an exit before choosing
Inventory schema, business functions, identity, files and client subscriptions before choosing a platform. Moving data alone does not port backend behavior. A small representative workflow can reveal how much application logic a future migration would need to replace.
A few more details
Is Supabase only an API wrapper around Postgres?
Each project includes a full Postgres database, with other Supabase services built on it.
Can I decide by the free tier alone?
No. Model the app’s query, realtime, storage and operating needs, then check current pricing for that workload.
Sources & maker notes
This guide is based on the cited documentation and maker sources. vibeforthat has not run an independent installation or end-to-end product test for this article.
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