Pocketbase

Open-source backend in a single file

Best for: Indie developers wanting a full backend in a single executable without service dependencies

Free plan

4.7/5Editorial score 89/100pocketbase.io

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Editorial score89/100

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The editorial note

What to know about Pocketbase

PocketBase is a free, open-source backend-as-a-service bundled in a single executable — providing a SQLite database, REST API, authentication, file storage, and realtime subscriptions in one binary. Developers deploy it to any server and get a full backend without managing multiple services. It's become widely popular in the indie developer community for rapid prototyping and small-to-medium production apps.

Is it right for you?

Who Pocketbase suits

Choose it if

Indie developers wanting a full backend in a single executable without service dependencies

Look elsewhere if

Applications needing horizontal scaling or PostgreSQL-specific features

What you get

Key features

SQLite database
REST API auto-generated
Authentication (email, OAuth)
File storage
Realtime subscriptions
Admin dashboard
JavaScript hooks

Works with

Integrations4

Any frontend (React, Vue, Svelte)JavaScript SDKDart SDKREST API

The trade-off

Pros and cons

Pros

Single binary (no Docker required)
Built-in auth, database, storage, realtime
Open-source and free
Admin dashboard
JavaScript extensibility
Blazing fast

Cons

SQLite limits horizontal scaling
Single server architecture
Less suitable for very large scale

Quick read

At a glance

Category: Development & Coding
Pricing model: Free
Free plan: Available
Free trial: Not listed
Website: pocketbase.io

The verdict

Our take on Pocketbase

The most impressive single-file backend available. PocketBase's all-in-one approach is perfect for indie developers and startups that don't need to manage separate backend services.

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