PostgreSQL vs Supabase
Updated 2026-09-03
Verdict
PostgreSQL (free) — pick for free and open source under the postgresql license. Supabase (free) — pick for free tier with generous limits.
| Pricing | PostgreSQL | Supabase |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | 0 USD | 0 USD |
| Free tier | Yes | Yes |
| Platforms | Linux, macOS, Windows, Web | Web, iOS, Android |
PostgreSQL — Pros
- Free and open source under the PostgreSQL License
- Strong ACID compliance and SQL standards adherence
- Rich extension ecosystem (PostGIS, pgvector, full-text search)
Supabase — Pros
- Free tier with generous limits
- Real-time database and authentication
- Open-source and self-hostable
PostgreSQL — Cons
- You operate and tune the server yourself (no managed control plane by default)
- Performance tuning can require specialist DBA knowledge at scale
- Read replicas and sharding need external tooling or extensions
Supabase — Cons
- Limited storage in free tier
- Advanced features require paid plans
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FAQ
Is PostgreSQL cheaper than Supabase?
PostgreSQL starts at 0 USD (checked 2026-09-03); Supabase starts at 0 USD (checked 2026-09-03). Check the current pricing page for the latest tiers.
Do PostgreSQL and Supabase have a free plan?
Both PostgreSQL and Supabase offer — see the comparison table above.
What platforms does PostgreSQL vs Supabase support?
PostgreSQL is available on Linux, macOS, Windows, Web. Supabase is available on Web, iOS, Android.
Are PostgreSQL and Supabase in the same category?
Yes. Both PostgreSQL and Supabase are classified as data tools.