Convex
Database · Free · since 2021
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Convex is a reactive backend-as-a-service with real-time sync, scheduled functions, and file storage. It handles real-time sync, server functions, file storage, and scheduling, and it's best suited for full-stack developers wanting a reactive backend. It has been around since 2021, giving it a 5-year head start in building out integrations and refining the product.
The free plan is free for small projects — enough for most people to evaluate whether it fits. It's designed for small teams, striking a balance between simplicity and collaboration features.
pros
- Includes Real-Time Sync as a core feature, purpose-built for database workflows
- Includes Server Functions as a core feature, purpose-built for database workflows
- Free for small projects — generous enough for most small teams to get real work done
- Includes file storage alongside the core feature set — fewer separate tools needed
cons
- Free plan exists but key features are locked behind the paid upgrade
- Fewer built-in features means you may need additional tools to cover gaps
- Ecosystem of third-party integrations is smaller than the market leaders in database
- Limited team/admin features if your organization eventually scales up
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