By Sply Code | May 6, 2025
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Firebase vs Supabase vs MongoDB: Which is Best for Your App?
Choosing the right backend for your web or mobile app can determine how scalable, fast, and cost-effective your app becomes.
In 2025, three popular choices stand out: Firebase, Supabase, and MongoDB.
Each has its own strengths and use cases. This article compares the three to help you decide which one is best for your project.
1. Firebase
Owned by: Google
Type: Backend-as-a-Service (BaaS)
Pros:
- Real-time database & Firestore
- Built-in authentication and analytics
- Hosting and cloud functions
- Easy integration with other Google services
- Ideal for MVPs and real-time apps
Cons:
- Vendor lock-in
- Expensive at scale
- Limited query capabilities in Realtime DB
Best For: Real-time apps, MVPs, chat apps, mobile-first apps
2. Supabase
Built On: PostgreSQL
Type: Open Source Firebase Alternative
Pros:
- SQL-based (PostgreSQL)
- Real-time capabilities
- Authentication, storage, and edge functions
- Open source & self-hostable
- Transparent pricing
Cons:
- Smaller ecosystem compared to Firebase
- Still maturing (some features may be unstable)
Best For: Developers who want Firebase-like features but with SQL and open-source flexibility
3. MongoDB (with Atlas)
Owned By: MongoDB Inc.
Type: NoSQL Document Database
Pros:
- Flexible schema design
- Scalable and performant
- Great for complex data structures
- Free tier with MongoDB Atlas
- Support for multiple drivers and languages
Cons:
- Requires more setup than Firebase or Supabase
- Learning curve for beginners
Best For: Apps with complex data, enterprise-grade applications, flexible document structures
Key Comparisons
| Feature |
Firebase |
Supabase |
Mongo
DB |
| Database Type |
NoSQL |
SQL |
NoSQL |
| Real-time Support |
Yes |
Yes |
extra setup |
| Hosting |
Yes |
Limited |
No |
| Authentication |
Yes |
Yes |
3rd party |
| Open Source |
No |
Yes |
Yes |
Choose Firebase if you want quick development, tight integration with Google, and real-time features out-of-the-box.
Choose Supabase if you prefer SQL, want open-source flexibility, and are building modern apps with real-time updates.
Choose MongoDB if your app requires complex document storage, high scalability, and flexibility.
Each platform is powerful in its own right. The best choice depends on your app’s needs, your team’s skill set, and your scalability plans.
