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Convex is a hosted TypeScript backend for apps that need live data and reactive behavior. Developers on Reddit praise how it can consolidate database, API, auth, storage and cache services; others prefer a conventional stack with tools such as Drizzle, Neon and TanStack Query. The right replacement depends on whether you need Postgres, self-hosting, a familiar mobile backend or managed workflows. Compare the API and SDK docs, deployment model and usage pricing before planning a migration.
01Why people leave Convex
Keep a conventional stack
Some developers prefer separate tools such as Drizzle, Neon and TanStack Query over a consolidated backend and its conventions.
Reduce hosted-service lock-in
If self-hosting or a clearer migration path matters, compare platforms by database model, deployment options and what data you can export.
Check costs at your usage
Convex is listed from $25 with a free plan. Compare actual quotas and metered charges before assuming another backend will cost less.
02The alternatives, ranked by fit
- Postgres-backed apps
SupabaseSupabaseChoose Supabase if you want a Postgres-centered backend with integrated auth and storage rather than Convex's TypeScript-first approach. Its listing starts at $25 and includes a free plan; that starting price alone does not settle cost at your traffic or storage levels. Review its current API and SDK docs, and plan business logic and database migrations deliberately.
Trade-off: You take responsibility for deliberate business-logic and migration planning.
7.5/10from
$25/mofree plan - Self-hosted backend
AppwriteAppwriteAppwrite is the clearest fit if replacing Convex means avoiding a hosted-only backend: it is open source and supports Cloud or self-hosting. Its listing includes a free plan and gives the starting price as n/a. Check resource limits and validate function behavior, then confirm its current API and SDK fit before moving application logic.
Trade-off: Resource limits and function behavior need validation.
7.8/10from
Freefree plan - Mobile app backend
FirebaseFirebaseFirebase suits mobile teams that want managed app infrastructure and whose data fits a NoSQL model. Its listing starts at $0 with a free plan, but usage costs and vendor lock-in are factors to plan for. Check the current SDK and API surface against your app, and compare real usage charges rather than treating the free plan as a production budget.
Trade-off: NoSQL fit, vendor lock-in and usage costs need consideration.
7.8/10from
Freefree plan - Managed API workflows
XanoXanoXano is worth comparing when you want managed backend operations, governed builds and releases, and workflow tests. Its listing starts at $85 and includes a free plan, so check the plan details and expected usage before comparing costs with Convex. Review the API and SDK documentation to see how its workflow model fits your existing TypeScript code and migration plan.
Trade-off: Its listed starting price is higher than the other options here.
7.2/10from
$85/mofree plan - Cross-platform game backend
PlayFabPlayFabPlayFab is a focused alternative for studios building cross-platform live games, especially when Azure-backed game services, LiveOps and analytics fit the stack. Its listing starts at $0 with a free plan, but costs are metered. The core services have no self-hosting path, so it is not a way to reduce hosted-service dependence; check its API and SDK fit before migrating.
Trade-off: Core services cannot be self-hosted, and costs are metered.
7.6/10from
$99/mofree plan
03Side by side
| Tool | Score | From | Free plan | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 Convex Convex (current) | 7.6 | $25/mo | Yes | TypeScript apps with live data |
| Supabase Supabase | 7.5 | $25/mo | Yes | Teams building around Postgres |
| Appwrite Appwrite | 7.8 | Free | Yes | Teams wanting a broad backend stack |
| Firebase Firebase | 7.8 | Free | Yes | Small teams shipping web or mobile apps |
| Xano Xano | 7.2 | $85/mo | Yes | Teams building APIs with AI agents |
| PlayFab PlayFab | 7.6 | $99/mo | Yes | Studios building cross-platform live games |
Questions people ask
Is Convex like MongoDB?
Convex is positioned as a TypeScript backend for apps with live data, not as a MongoDB deployment. That description does not establish MongoDB compatibility or a matching query model. If you need MongoDB wire-protocol compatibility, direct database access or a specific data model, confirm those requirements in Convex's current documentation before choosing.
Can I use Convex for free?
Yes. Convex is listed with a free plan, alongside paid plans starting at $25. Check its current pricing page for the free plan's quotas and overage rules, then estimate your expected usage. A free tier is a way to start; it does not establish what production traffic will cost.
Is Convex built on AWS?
Convex is a hosted backend, but that description does not establish which cloud provider runs it. Check Convex's current infrastructure, regions and subprocessors documentation, or ask the vendor directly. If your deployment requires a specific cloud, region or data-residency arrangement, confirm that before committing to the platform.