AppWrite vs. Supabase: A Comprehensive Comparison for 2024
In this in-depth analysis, we’ll explore the key differences between AppWrite and Supabase, two leading Backend-as-a-Service (BaaS) platforms, to help you make an informed decision for your project needs.
Key Differences at a Glance
- Database: AppWrite leverages MariaDB, while Supabase is built on PostgreSQL
- Hosting Options: Both platforms provide cloud and self-hosted deployment options
- Language Support: AppWrite offers extensive support for 10+ languages, while Supabase specializes in TypeScript
- Performance: AppWrite demonstrates superior performance in stress testing
- Pricing Model: Both platforms feature free tiers with flexible scaling options
Performance and Scalability Benchmarks
Our comprehensive performance analysis reveals notable distinctions:
Self-Hosted Performance (€5/month Server)
- AppWrite: Efficiently manages 2,000+ daily users
- Supabase: Experiences performance constraints at higher user volumes
Enterprise-Grade Performance (€30/month Server)
- AppWrite: Successfully handles 250 concurrent users
- Supabase: Reaches capacity at 45 simultaneous users
Stress Test Results
- AppWrite:
- Peak: 6,800 virtual users
- Request handling: 100,000
- Average response time: 3 seconds
- Supabase:
- Peak: 3,000 virtual users
- Request handling: 59,000
- Average response time: 6 seconds
Feature Comparison
Core Features
Both platforms deliver essential backend services:
- Authentication
- Database management
- File storage
- Serverless functions
- Real-time capabilities
Unique Features
AppWrite Advantages
- Multi-language support for serverless functions
- Integrated messaging system (SMS, email, push notifications)
- Flexible self-hosting options
- Enhanced resource efficiency
Supabase Advantages
- Native PostgreSQL support
- Advanced SQL capabilities
- Optimized cloud performance
- Comprehensive database features
Cost-Effectiveness Analysis
Self-Hosted Setup
- AppWrite shows superior resource utilization
- Reduced operational costs for comparable workloads
- Improved performance-to-cost ratio
Cloud Hosting
- Both platforms maintain competitive pricing
- Supabase excels in cloud-native functionality
- AppWrite offers flexible scaling solutions
Making Your Choice
Choose AppWrite If You Need:
- Maximum performance and scalability
- Cost-effective self-hosting
- Support for multiple programming languages
- Integrated messaging capabilities
- Streamlined setup and maintenance
Choose Supabase If You Need:
- PostgreSQL-specific features
- Cloud-optimized infrastructure
- Advanced SQL capabilities
- Strong TypeScript integration
- Managed cloud service
My Personal Choice
For my upcoming project, I’ve selected Supabase based on:
- PostgreSQL database requirements
- Preference for cloud-hosted solutions
- Positive feedback from colleagues
- Strong TypeScript integration
I’ll be sharing my Supabase implementation journey in future posts, highlighting practical challenges and solutions.