PocketBase is an open-source backend platform that fits in a single executable file. Written in Go, it provides a complete backend solution with an embedded SQLite database, realtime data synchronization, user authentication, file storage, and an admin dashboard — all without requiring a separate database server or complex setup.

Designed for developers who want to ship applications quickly, PocketBase eliminates the need to configure and maintain separate backend services. Its single-binary approach means you can deploy it anywhere — from a Raspberry Pi to a cloud VM — with minimal overhead.

Key Features

• Embedded SQLite database with realtime subscriptions and built-in authentication
• Admin dashboard UI for managing data, users, and file storage
• File storage with S3-compatible backend support
• Extensible via JavaScript/TypeScript hooks and Go plugins
• Lightweight single binary – no dependencies required

License: MIT

Platforms: Linux, macOS, Windows, Docker

GitHub Stars: 43k+

Website: https://pocketbase.io/

Source Code: https://github.com/pocketbase/pocketbase

Use Cases

• Mobile app backends — Realtime data sync for iOS/Android apps with built-in auth
• Prototyping and MVPs — Rapid application development with zero backend configuration
• Internal tools — Quick admin panels for team workflows and data management
• IoT data collection — Lightweight server for sensor data aggregation

Alternatives

• Appwrite — Full-featured backend platform with more built-in services
• Supabase — Open source Firebase alternative (requires PostgreSQL)
• Directus — Headless CMS wrapping existing SQL databases
• NocoDB — No-code Airtable alternative