PocketBase
Open-source backend in a single Go file with real-time DB, auth, and file storage.
Overview
PocketBase is a open-source backend in a single Go file with real-time DB, auth, and file storage. It handles single file, real-time, auth, and s3 storage, and it's best suited for developers wanting a single-file go backend. Launched in 2022, it's a relatively recent entrant that's been gaining traction.
The core product is entirely free. Since it's open-source, you can self-host for free with no user limits. It's aimed at individual users, so it's fast to set up but may lack team-management features if you scale.
Strengths
- Open source and transparent
- Includes Single File as a core feature, purpose-built for cloud hosting workflows
- Fully open-source — you can self-host, audit the code, and avoid vendor lock-in
- The core product is free with no paywalled essentials
Weaknesses
- May lack some advanced features
- Self-hosting is free but requires server maintenance and DevOps knowledge
- Fewer built-in features means you may need additional tools to cover gaps
- Costs can spike unexpectedly during traffic surges if limits aren't configured
Quick info
- Category
- Cloud Hosting
- Starting price
- Free
- Free tier
- Fully free
- Open source
- Yes
- Best for
- Individuals
- Founded
- 2022
Last updated 2026-04-12
Top alternatives to PocketBase
German cloud provider with high-performance servers at unbeatable prices.
Cloud infrastructure with compute, storage, and Kubernetes across 30+ global locations.
Cloud hosting provider with virtual machines, Kubernetes, and managed databases.
PocketBase comparisons
vs
vs
vs
vs
vs
vs
More Cloud Hosting tools
Stay sharp
New cloud hosting tools, price changes, and honest takes — weekly.