Last updated: April 12, 2026
Supabase vs Firebase — Open Source vs Google BaaS in 2026
Quick Answer
Supabase is an open-source Firebase alternative built on PostgreSQL with SQL support, Row Level Security, and self-hosting option. Firebase uses proprietary Firestore/RTDB with tight Google Cloud integration. Supabase gives you SQL and data ownership; Firebase gives you Google ecosystem integration.
Supabase vs Firebase — Side by Side
| Feature | Supabase | Firebase |
|---|---|---|
| Database | PostgreSQL (full SQL) | Firestore (NoSQL document) or RTDB |
| Open Source | Yes — self-host possible | No — Google proprietary |
| Auth | Built-in (email, OAuth, magic link) | Firebase Auth (comprehensive) |
| Real-time | Realtime via PostgreSQL changes | Real-time listeners (native) |
| Storage | S3-compatible object storage | Cloud Storage for Firebase |
| Edge Functions | Deno-based Edge Functions | Cloud Functions (Node.js) |
| Pricing | Generous free tier, predictable pricing | Pay-per-read/write (can spike) |
| Vendor Lock-in | Low — standard PostgreSQL | High — proprietary Firestore |
Verdict
Choose Supabase for SQL-based applications, data ownership, and when you want to avoid vendor lock-in. Choose Firebase for real-time-heavy apps, mobile apps with Google Cloud integration, and rapid prototyping with NoSQL.
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