Free, open-source alternatives to Firebase
Google's backend for web and mobile apps. 4 apps you can run yourself instead of Firebase, sorted by how well they replace it. Each one is open source, so your data stays with you.
AppwriteBest match
End to end backend server for web, native, and mobile developers 🚀.
PocketBase
Backend for your next SaaS and Mobile app in one file.
TrailBase
Open, sub-millisecond, single-executable FireBase alternative with type-safe REST & realtime APIs, built-in JS/TS runtime, auth & admin UI.
Manifest
Complete backend that fits into 1 YAML file.
Side by side
| App | Stars | License | Activity | Runs on |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Appwrite | 57,652 | BSD-3-Clause | Docker | |
| PocketBase | 61,384 | MIT | Go, Docker | |
| TrailBase | 5,652 | OSL-3.0 | Rust, Docker | |
| Manifest | 7,571 | MIT | Node.js |
Why replace Firebase?
Firebase works, but your data lives in someone else's account, the price can change at any time, and features can disappear. An open-source app you run yourself is yours: you choose where it runs, who can see the data, and when to update.
Questions
What is the best free alternative to Firebase?
Appwrite is the closest open-source replacement for Firebase in our list. PocketBase and TrailBase are worth a look too, depending on what you need.
Can I self-host an alternative to Firebase?
Yes. All 4 apps on this page are open source and can run on your own server, usually with Docker, or on a managed host that installs them for you.