Open-source alternatives to Firebase
Looking to replace Firebase with something free and open-source? These 3 tools are the best open alternatives in 2026 — most are self-hostable, so you keep full control of your data and pay no subscription.
At a glance: how they compare
Click a column to sort — the best one depends on what matters to you.
| Alternative | Stars | Language | License | Last commit | In one line |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Supabase | — | — | Apache-2.0 | — | Postgres-based backend: auth, storage, realtime and APIs. |
| Appwrite | — | — | BSD-3-Clause | — | Self-hosted backend with auth, databases and functions. |
| PocketBase | — | — | MIT | — | Single-file backend with database, auth and admin UI. |
Which one should you pick?
Supabase
Postgres-based backend: auth, storage, realtime and APIs. Its Apache-2.0 license is permissive — free to use commercially, embed and modify. Because it is self-hostable, your data can stay entirely on your own infrastructure.
Appwrite
Self-hosted backend with auth, databases and functions. Its BSD-3-Clause license is permissive — free to use commercially, embed and modify. Because it is self-hostable, your data can stay entirely on your own infrastructure.
PocketBase
Single-file backend with database, auth and admin UI. Its MIT license is permissive — free to use commercially, embed and modify. Because it is self-hostable, your data can stay entirely on your own infrastructure.
Switching from Firebase without the drama
- Export your data from Firebase first — most tools above can import standard formats.
- Run your top pick in parallel for a week or two before committing; self-hosted options can be tried locally in minutes.
- Migrate one team or one project at a time, keeping the old account read-only until everything checks out.
FAQ
What is the best open-source alternative to Firebase?
The top open-source alternative is Supabase — Postgres-based backend: auth, storage, realtime and APIs. The full ranked list is above.
Are these Firebase alternatives free?
Yes. Every tool listed is open-source and free to use; most can be self-hosted so you keep full control of your data.
Can I self-host an alternative to Firebase?
Most of these tools are designed to run on your own server or machine, giving you privacy and no subscription fees.
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