Supabase
The open-source Firebase alternative with a Postgres database, authentication, storage, and real-time subscriptions. We use Supabase as the backend for modern web applications.
Build with SupabaseWhat is Supabase?
Supabase is an open-source backend-as-a-service platform built on PostgreSQL. It provides everything you need to build a modern application: a relational database, user authentication, file storage, serverless functions, and real-time data subscriptions — all accessible through auto-generated APIs.
Think of it as your entire backend infrastructure, managed and ready to go, without the complexity of setting up and maintaining servers yourself.
How We Use Supabase
Supabase is our preferred backend platform for client projects. Here’s how we leverage it:
Database and API layer — Every data-driven application we build uses Supabase’s PostgreSQL database. We design schemas, set up row-level security policies, and use the auto-generated REST and GraphQL APIs to connect frontends seamlessly.
User authentication — Supabase Auth handles sign-up, login, password reset, and social OAuth providers (Google, GitHub, etc.) out of the box. We integrate this into client applications so they have secure, production-ready authentication from day one.
File storage — Client applications that need image uploads, document management, or media handling use Supabase Storage. It includes built-in image transformations and CDN delivery.
Real-time features — For applications that need live updates — like dashboards, chat features, or collaborative tools — Supabase’s real-time subscriptions push changes to connected clients instantly.
AI integrations — Supabase’s pgvector extension enables us to build AI-powered search and recommendation features directly in the database, using vector embeddings alongside traditional data.
When to Choose Supabase
Supabase is the right choice when you need:
- A modern web or mobile application — Full-stack apps with auth, data, and storage
- Fast time to market — Go from idea to working backend in hours, not weeks
- Cost-effective scaling — Start free, pay as you grow
- AI-powered features — Vector search and embeddings built into your database
- No vendor lock-in — Open source means you can self-host if needed
Pros & Cons
Advantages
- Built on PostgreSQL — industry-standard, battle-tested database
- Built-in authentication, storage, and real-time features
- Generous free tier for startups and MVPs
- Open source with no vendor lock-in
- Excellent developer experience and documentation
Considerations
- Requires some technical knowledge to set up optimally
- Fewer managed services compared to AWS/GCP
- Edge functions are still maturing compared to alternatives