@supabase/supabase-js vs firebase vs aws-amplify vs parse-server
Backend-as-a-Service (BaaS) Libraries Comparison
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@supabase/supabase-jsfirebaseaws-amplifyparse-serverSimilar Packages:
What's Backend-as-a-Service (BaaS) Libraries?

Backend-as-a-Service (BaaS) libraries provide developers with ready-made backend solutions that simplify the process of building and managing server-side functionalities. These libraries typically offer features such as authentication, database management, real-time data synchronization, and cloud storage, allowing developers to focus on building the frontend of their applications without worrying about the complexities of backend infrastructure. By using BaaS libraries, developers can accelerate their development process, reduce server maintenance overhead, and leverage scalable cloud services.

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@supabase/supabase-js3,743,695
3,881260 kB1909 days agoMIT
firebase3,170,039
4,99825.7 MB72720 days agoApache-2.0
aws-amplify889,880
9,543170 kB4924 hours agoApache-2.0
parse-server35,800
21,2465.35 MB4745 days agoApache-2.0
Feature Comparison: @supabase/supabase-js vs firebase vs aws-amplify vs parse-server

Database Management

  • @supabase/supabase-js:

    Supabase uses PostgreSQL as its database, providing powerful SQL capabilities, including complex queries, joins, and transactions. It also supports real-time subscriptions, allowing developers to listen for changes in the database and update the UI accordingly.

  • firebase:

    Firebase offers a NoSQL database called Firestore, which is designed for real-time data synchronization across clients. It allows for flexible data structures and automatic scaling, making it easy to manage data for applications with dynamic content.

  • aws-amplify:

    AWS Amplify integrates with various AWS databases, including DynamoDB and RDS. It allows developers to define data models and perform CRUD operations seamlessly. Amplify also supports GraphQL, enabling efficient data retrieval and manipulation.

  • parse-server:

    Parse Server provides a flexible data model that can be used with various databases like MongoDB or PostgreSQL. It allows for complex queries and supports cloud functions for server-side logic, giving developers control over data management.

Real-time Capabilities

  • @supabase/supabase-js:

    Supabase provides real-time capabilities through its built-in subscriptions feature, allowing developers to listen for changes in database tables and update the frontend instantly. This is particularly useful for applications that require live updates, such as chat applications or collaborative tools.

  • firebase:

    Firebase is well-known for its real-time capabilities, especially with Firestore. It automatically synchronizes data across clients in real-time, making it an excellent choice for applications that need instant updates, such as social media feeds or messaging apps.

  • aws-amplify:

    AWS Amplify supports real-time data synchronization through its API and WebSocket capabilities. It allows developers to build applications that can respond to data changes in real-time, although it may require additional configuration compared to other solutions.

  • parse-server:

    Parse Server can achieve real-time functionality through the use of WebSocket connections, allowing developers to implement live queries and notifications. However, it may require more manual setup compared to Firebase or Supabase.

Authentication

  • @supabase/supabase-js:

    Supabase provides built-in authentication features, including email/password login, OAuth providers, and JWT tokens. It simplifies user management and session handling, making it easy to secure applications without extensive backend logic.

  • firebase:

    Firebase Authentication offers a simple and secure way to authenticate users using email/password, phone authentication, and various social providers. It provides a straightforward API for managing user sessions and integrates well with Firestore.

  • aws-amplify:

    AWS Amplify offers a comprehensive authentication module that supports various authentication methods, including social logins, multi-factor authentication, and user management. It integrates seamlessly with other AWS services, providing a robust security framework.

  • parse-server:

    Parse Server includes user authentication features, allowing developers to implement user sign-up, login, and session management. It supports various authentication methods, including username/password and OAuth, but may require more custom implementation compared to other BaaS options.

Extensibility

  • @supabase/supabase-js:

    Supabase is designed to be extensible, allowing developers to create custom functions and triggers within the PostgreSQL database. This enables advanced data processing and business logic to be executed directly on the database level.

  • firebase:

    Firebase offers extensibility through Cloud Functions, allowing developers to run backend code in response to events triggered by Firebase features. This enables custom logic and integrations with third-party services, although it may require familiarity with serverless architecture.

  • aws-amplify:

    AWS Amplify is highly extensible, providing a wide range of integrations with other AWS services. Developers can customize their backend using AWS Lambda functions, API Gateway, and other services, allowing for complex application architectures.

  • parse-server:

    Parse Server is open-source and can be customized extensively. Developers can add custom cloud code, hooks, and classes, providing flexibility to implement specific business logic and integrate with other services.

Learning Curve

  • @supabase/supabase-js:

    Supabase has a relatively gentle learning curve, especially for developers familiar with SQL and relational databases. Its straightforward API and documentation make it easy to get started, allowing developers to quickly build applications without extensive backend knowledge.

  • firebase:

    Firebase is known for its ease of use and quick setup, making it ideal for beginners. Its extensive documentation and community support help developers get up to speed quickly, especially for building real-time applications.

  • aws-amplify:

    AWS Amplify has a steeper learning curve due to its comprehensive feature set and integration with various AWS services. Developers may need to familiarize themselves with AWS concepts and configurations, which can be overwhelming for newcomers.

  • parse-server:

    Parse Server may require a moderate learning curve, particularly for developers who need to self-host and configure their backend. However, its flexibility and open-source nature can be appealing for those looking for a customizable solution.

How to Choose: @supabase/supabase-js vs firebase vs aws-amplify vs parse-server
  • @supabase/supabase-js:

    Choose Supabase if you are looking for an open-source alternative to Firebase that offers a PostgreSQL database with real-time capabilities and a simple API. It is ideal for projects that require SQL-based data management and want to leverage the power of relational databases.

  • firebase:

    Choose Firebase if you need a robust, real-time database solution with excellent support for mobile and web applications. Firebase excels in providing real-time data synchronization and a wide array of services like authentication and cloud functions, making it ideal for rapid prototyping and MVPs.

  • aws-amplify:

    Choose AWS Amplify if you are already invested in the AWS ecosystem and need a comprehensive set of tools for building scalable applications. It provides a wide range of services, including authentication, APIs, storage, and hosting, making it suitable for enterprise-level applications.

  • parse-server:

    Choose Parse Server if you prefer an open-source solution that can be self-hosted and offers flexibility in terms of data storage and server-side logic. It is well-suited for developers who want more control over their backend infrastructure and prefer a customizable solution.

README for @supabase/supabase-js

supabase-js - Isomorphic JavaScript Client for Supabase.

  • Documentation: https://supabase.com/docs/reference/javascript/start
  • TypeDoc: https://supabase.github.io/supabase-js/v2/

Usage

First of all, you need to install the library:

npm install @supabase/supabase-js

Then you're able to import the library and establish the connection with the database:

import { createClient } from '@supabase/supabase-js'

// Create a single supabase client for interacting with your database
const supabase = createClient('https://xyzcompany.supabase.co', 'public-anon-key')

UMD

You can use plain <script>s to import supabase-js from CDNs, like:

<script src="https://cdn.jsdelivr.net/npm/@supabase/supabase-js@2"></script>

or even:

<script src="https://unpkg.com/@supabase/supabase-js@2"></script>

Then you can use it from a global supabase variable:

<script>
  const { createClient } = supabase
  const _supabase = createClient('https://xyzcompany.supabase.co', 'public-anon-key')

  console.log('Supabase Instance: ', _supabase)
  // ...
</script>

ESM

You can use <script type="module"> to import supabase-js from CDNs, like:

<script type="module">
  import { createClient } from 'https://cdn.jsdelivr.net/npm/@supabase/supabase-js/+esm'
  const supabase = createClient('https://xyzcompany.supabase.co', 'public-anon-key')

  console.log('Supabase Instance: ', supabase)
  // ...
</script>

Deno

You can use supabase-js in the Deno runtime via JSR:

import { createClient } from 'jsr:@supabase/supabase-js@2'

Custom fetch implementation

supabase-js uses the cross-fetch library to make HTTP requests, but an alternative fetch implementation can be provided as an option. This is most useful in environments where cross-fetch is not compatible, for instance Cloudflare Workers:

import { createClient } from '@supabase/supabase-js'

// Provide a custom `fetch` implementation as an option
const supabase = createClient('https://xyzcompany.supabase.co', 'public-anon-key', {
  global: {
    fetch: (...args) => fetch(...args),
  },
})

Support Policy

This section outlines the scope of support for various runtime environments in Supabase JavaScript client.

Node.js

We only support Node.js versions that are in Active LTS or Maintenance status as defined by the official Node.js release schedule. This means we support versions that are currently receiving long-term support and critical bug fixes.

When a Node.js version reaches end-of-life and is no longer in Active LTS or Maintenance status, Supabase will drop it in a minor release, and this won't be considered a breaking change.

Deno

We support Deno versions that are currently receiving active development and security updates. We follow the official Deno release schedule and only support versions from the stable and lts release channels.

When a Deno version reaches end-of-life and is no longer receiving security updates, Supabase will drop it in a minor release, and this won't be considered a breaking change.

Important Notes

  • Experimental features: Features marked as experimental may be removed or changed without notice

Testing

Unit Testing

pnpm test

Integration Testing

supabase start
pnpm run test:integration

Expo Testing

The project includes Expo integration tests to ensure compatibility with React Native environments.

Next.js Testing

The project includes Next.js integration tests to ensure compatibility with React SSR environments.

Deno Testing

The project includes Deno integration tests to ensure compatibility with Deno runtime.

Bun Testing

The project includes Bun integration tests to ensure compatibility with Bun runtime.

CI/CD Testing

When running on CI, the tests automatically use the latest dependencies from the root project. The CI pipeline:

  1. Builds the main project with current dependencies
  2. Creates a package archive (.tgz) with the latest versions
  3. Uses this archive in Expo, Next.js, and Deno tests to ensure consistency

Local Development

For local development of Expo, Next.js, and Deno tests, you can update dependencies using automated scripts:

# Update all test dependencies at once
npm run update:test-deps

# Or update specific test environments:
npm run update:test-deps:expo    # Expo tests only
npm run update:test-deps:next    # Next.js tests only
npm run update:test-deps:deno    # Deno tests only
npm run update:test-deps:bun     # Bun tests only

Note: The CI automatically handles dependency synchronization, so manual updates are only needed for local development and testing.

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