Pocketbase

Open-source backend in a single file

Best for: Developers building MVPs and side projects wanting a complete backend in a single binary

Free plan

4.5/5Editorial score 83/100pocketbase.io

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Editorial score83/100

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The editorial note

What to know about Pocketbase

PocketBase is an open-source backend consisting of a single Go binary that includes an embedded SQLite database, file storage, authentication, and a real-time subscriptions API. Developers deploy a complete backend by running a single file — no servers to configure, no containers to manage. Popular for side projects, MVPs, and small production applications where simplicity is valued over scalability.

Is it right for you?

Who Pocketbase suits

Choose it if

Developers building MVPs and side projects wanting a complete backend in a single binary

Look elsewhere if

High-scale production applications needing horizontal scaling

What you get

Key features

SQLite database
Authentication
File storage
Real-time subscriptions
Admin dashboard
REST API
JavaScript SDK

Works with

Integrations4

Any HTTP clientJavaScript SDKDart SDKGo SDK

The trade-off

Pros and cons

Pros

Single binary (no dependencies)
SQLite database
Auth included
File storage
Real-time subscriptions
Admin UI

Cons

SQLite limits scalability
Not for high-traffic production
Community support only

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

Best backend for side projects and MVPs. PocketBase's single binary simplicity means a working backend in minutes — perfect for testing ideas without infrastructure overhead.

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