Introduction
Supabase is an open-source backend platform built around Postgres. It provides database, authentication, storage, APIs, edge functions, and real-time features so teams can build and ship applications without assembling each backend service separately.
What is Supabase?
Supabase is a backend-as-a-service and Postgres development platform. It combines a hosted database with tools for authentication, file storage, auto-generated APIs, serverless functions, and real-time application features.
What makes Supabase stand out?
- Postgres at the center of the platform, with SQL and row-level security.
- Open-source tooling with hosted and self-managed workflows.
- One dashboard for database, auth, storage, APIs, and functions.
- Built-in support for real-time features and vector workloads.
- Starter templates for common application and AI use cases.
Who is it for?
- Developers building web and mobile applications.
- Startups that need a production-ready backend quickly.
- Teams migrating from a custom or fragmented backend stack.
- AI builders using embeddings, search, and model integrations.
What can you do with Supabase?
- Create Postgres tables, queries, policies, and instant REST APIs.
- Add email, social, and passwordless authentication.
- Store and serve files with access controls.
- Run edge functions and subscribe to real-time database changes.
- Store, index, and search vector embeddings.
- Start with templates for Next.js, Stripe, AI chat, and other workflows.
How does Supabase work?
Create a project, define its Postgres schema and security policies, then connect the generated APIs and SDKs to your application. Add authentication, storage, functions, and real-time subscriptions as the product grows. Supabase can be used through its hosted platform or self-managed tooling.
Pricing
Supabase offers free and paid plans. Limits and usage pricing vary by project resources; check the website for current plan details.
Alternatives
Firebase, Appwrite, Neon, and PlanetScale are common alternatives for backend and database workflows.
FAQ
Is Supabase based on Postgres?
Yes. Postgres is the core database behind Supabase projects.
Does Supabase include authentication?
Yes. Supabase provides authentication and authorization features, including row-level security.
Can Supabase store files?
Yes. Supabase includes object storage with access controls.
Does Supabase support real-time data?
Yes. Applications can subscribe to supported database changes and build real-time experiences.
