Quick Comparison
| Convex | Supabase | |
|---|---|---|
| Database | Document-based (custom) | PostgreSQL |
| Queries | TypeScript functions | SQL / REST / GraphQL |
| Realtime | Automatic (reactive) | PostgreSQL changes |
| Type safety | End-to-end | With codegen |
| Hosting | Managed only | Managed or self-hosted |
| Pricing | Usage-based | Tier-based |
When to Use Convex
- You want automatic reactivity (live queries)
- Full-stack TypeScript apps
- You want end-to-end type safety
- Real-time features are core to your app
When to Use Supabase
- You want PostgreSQL (SQL, joins, RLS)
- You want to self-host
- You need row-level security
- You want a more traditional database
Verdict
Convex for real-time TypeScript apps. Supabase for PostgreSQL power and flexibility. Convex has a steeper vendor lock-in; Supabase is more portable.