Fly.io vs PocketBase
Fly.io is platform for running full-stack apps and databases close to users with automatic scaling, while PocketBase is open-source backend in a single Go file with real-time DB, auth, and file storage. PocketBase is open source and can be self-hosted, giving you full control over your data. Fly.io is built for developers wanting to run apps close to users globally, whereas PocketBase targets developers wanting a single-file go backend.
| Feature | Fly.io | PocketBase |
|---|---|---|
| Free tier available | ✓ | ✓ |
| Open source | — | ✓ |
| Auth | — | ✓ |
| Edge Computing | ✓ | — |
| GPU Support | ✓ | — |
| Global Deploy | ✓ | — |
| Machines API | ✓ | — |
| Real-Time | — | ✓ |
| S3 Storage | — | ✓ |
| Single File | — | ✓ |
Pricing: Both Fly.io and PocketBase are free. You can try both without spending a dollar.
Feature gaps: Fly.io offers Edge Computing, GPU Support and Global Deploy that PocketBase lacks. PocketBase brings Auth, Real-Time and S3 Storage that Fly.io does not have.
Team fit: Fly.io is geared toward small teams teams, while PocketBase is aimed at individual users and small setups. Pick the one that matches where your team is today and where it is headed — migrating tools later is always painful.
Open source: PocketBase is open source, meaning you can self-host, audit the code, and avoid vendor lock-in. Fly.io is proprietary — you are trusting the vendor with your data and uptime.
Where each tool shines: Fly.io's biggest strengths are: includes edge computing as a core feature, purpose-built for cloud hosting workflows. includes global deploy as a core feature, purpose-built for cloud hosting workflows. PocketBase's biggest strengths are: open source and transparent. includes single file as a core feature, purpose-built for cloud hosting workflows.
Watch out for: With Fly.io, users commonly note that free plan exists but key features are locked behind the paid upgrade. With PocketBase, the main complaint is that may lack some advanced features.
choose Fly.io if
- Your profile matches its sweet spot: developers wanting to run apps close to users globally
- You specifically need Edge Computing and GPU Support
- You care about includes global deploy as a core feature, purpose-built for cloud hosting workflows
- Your team size fits the small teams profile Fly.io is designed for
- The free tier works for you: generous free tier
choose PocketBase if
- Your profile matches its sweet spot: developers wanting a single-file go backend
- You need self-hosting, data sovereignty, or the ability to audit source code
- You specifically need Auth and Real-Time
- You care about includes single file as a core feature, purpose-built for cloud hosting workflows
- Your team size fits the individuals profile PocketBase is designed for
frequently asked
What is the difference between Fly.io and PocketBase?
Fly.io is platform for running full-stack apps and databases close to users with automatic scaling, while PocketBase is open-source backend in a single Go file with real-time DB, auth, and file storage. PocketBase is open source and can be self-hosted, giving you full control over your data. Fly.io is built for developers wanting to run apps close to users globally, whereas PocketBase targets developers wanting a single-file go backend.
Should I use Fly.io or PocketBase?
PocketBase gives you open source and self-hosting; Fly.io is a managed service. Which trade-off works for you?
When should I choose Fly.io over PocketBase?
Choose Fly.io if Your profile matches its sweet spot: developers wanting to run apps close to users globally; You specifically need Edge Computing and GPU Support; You care about includes global deploy as a core feature, purpose-built for cloud hosting workflows; Your team size fits the small teams profile Fly.io is designed for; The free tier works for you: generous free tier.
When should I choose PocketBase over Fly.io?
Choose PocketBase if Your profile matches its sweet spot: developers wanting a single-file go backend; You need self-hosting, data sovereignty, or the ability to audit source code; You specifically need Auth and Real-Time; You care about includes single file as a core feature, purpose-built for cloud hosting workflows; Your team size fits the individuals profile PocketBase is designed for.
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