
PocketBase
Open-source backend in one file
FreeDBOpen Source5 impressions
PocketBase is a free alternative to Firebase.
PocketBase is an open-source, single-file backend offering realtime database, authentication, file storage and an admin dashboard.
- for
- Developers needing a lightweight backend for web or mobile apps
- pricing
- open source
- license
- MIT
- v0.40.4v0.40.4 Release21 days ago
- v0.40.3v0.40.3 Releasea month ago
- v0.22.55v0.22.55 Releasea month ago
Key features
- Single-file deployment — Run the entire backend stack from one executable file.
- Realtime database — Subscribe to live changes on collections without extra setup.
- Built-in authentication — User sign-up, login and session management out of the box.
- File storage — Store and serve files directly through the backend.
- Admin dashboard — Web UI to manage collections, records and settings.
- JavaScript & Dart SDKs — Client libraries for easy integration with popular front-end stacks.
Use cases
- Add realtime data sync to a web app with minimal backend code
- Implement user authentication and file uploads for a mobile prototype
- Create a quick admin interface for managing content without building a custom server
PocketBase vs alternatives
PocketBase | Firebase | Supabase | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Best for | All-in-one single-file backend | Managed backend platform | Open-source backend suite | Postgres-based backend | Serverless SQL database |
| Pricing | Open source | Subscription | Subscription | Subscription | Subscription |
| DevHunt upvotes | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Launched | — | — | — | — | — |
- PocketBase vs Firebase: Firebase is a managed cloud service with extensive analytics, whereas PocketBase is self-hosted and single-file.
- PocketBase vs Appwrite: Appwrite offers similar features but requires multiple services; PocketBase is a single binary.
- PocketBase vs Supabase: Supabase provides Postgres-based storage and auth, while PocketBase uses its own embedded database.
- PocketBase vs Neon: Neon is a serverless Postgres offering; PocketBase is a lightweight all-in-one backend.
PocketBase FAQ
What language is PocketBase written in?+
PocketBase is compiled to a single binary, so you can run it on any platform without installing dependencies.
Do I need a separate database server?+
No, the realtime database is built into PocketBase and runs inside the same file.
How do I interact with the backend from the frontend?+
Use the provided JavaScript or Dart SDKs to query collections, subscribe to changes, and manage authentication.
Is there a hosted version?+
PocketBase is open source and self-hosted; you run the binary on your own infrastructure.
Can I extend PocketBase with custom logic?+
Yes, you can add server-side hooks and custom endpoints using the built-in HTTP server.
Summarized by DevHunt from pocketbase.io · Oct 1, 2026. Details may change; check the official site.
About this listing
DevHunt lists PocketBase because developers expect to find it next to the tools in its category. It did not launch on DevHunt. Work on PocketBase? Message us to claim this listing.
PocketBase
Firebase
Supabase



-(1).png?auto=compress&fit=max&w=64)

