firebase vs ethers vs next-auth vs auth0 vs magic-sdk vs moralis
Authentication and Blockchain Libraries Comparison
1 Year
firebaseethersnext-authauth0magic-sdkmoralisSimilar Packages:
What's Authentication and Blockchain Libraries?

These libraries provide various solutions for authentication, blockchain interactions, and real-time database functionalities in web development. Each library serves distinct purposes, from user authentication to decentralized application (dApp) development, enabling developers to build secure and efficient applications. They cater to different needs, such as traditional web apps, decentralized apps, and real-time data management, making it essential to choose the right one based on project requirements.

Package Weekly Downloads Trend
Github Stars Ranking
Stat Detail
Package
Downloads
Stars
Size
Issues
Publish
License
firebase2,369,7924,91325.1 MB6595 days agoApache-2.0
ethers1,752,6158,13812.6 MB5752 months agoMIT
next-auth1,313,88226,141828 kB4163 months agoISC
auth0610,2316512.75 MB25a month agoMIT
magic-sdk31,378465842 kB5417 hours agoMIT
moralis25,86137611.8 MB107 months agoMIT
Feature Comparison: firebase vs ethers vs next-auth vs auth0 vs magic-sdk vs moralis

Authentication Methods

  • firebase:

    Firebase Authentication offers multiple authentication methods, including email/password, phone authentication, and social logins (Google, Facebook, Twitter). This versatility makes it easy to implement user sign-up and sign-in flows.

  • ethers:

    Ethers.js does not provide authentication methods directly as it focuses on blockchain interactions. However, it can be integrated with wallet providers like MetaMask for user authentication in dApps.

  • next-auth:

    NextAuth.js supports a variety of authentication providers, including OAuth providers (Google, GitHub), email/password, and custom authentication strategies. This makes it adaptable for different application needs.

  • auth0:

    Auth0 supports a wide range of authentication methods, including social logins (Google, Facebook), enterprise logins (SAML, LDAP), and passwordless authentication. This flexibility allows developers to cater to diverse user preferences and security requirements.

  • magic-sdk:

    Magic SDK specializes in passwordless authentication, allowing users to log in using their email or phone number. This method enhances user experience by eliminating the need for passwords while maintaining security.

  • moralis:

    Moralis provides user authentication through wallet connections, enabling users to log in using their crypto wallets. This is essential for dApps where users interact with blockchain networks directly.

Blockchain Integration

  • firebase:

    Firebase does not natively support blockchain integration, but it can be used in conjunction with blockchain technologies for applications that require real-time data storage and user authentication.

  • ethers:

    Ethers.js is specifically designed for Ethereum blockchain integration, providing tools for interacting with smart contracts, sending transactions, and querying blockchain data. It is essential for developers building Ethereum dApps.

  • next-auth:

    NextAuth.js does not provide blockchain integration but can be used in applications that require user authentication for blockchain-related functionalities. It can be integrated with other libraries for a complete solution.

  • auth0:

    Auth0 does not focus on blockchain integration but can be used alongside blockchain technologies for secure user authentication in decentralized applications.

  • magic-sdk:

    Magic SDK does not provide direct blockchain integration but can be used with blockchain wallets to facilitate user authentication in dApps, enhancing user experience without traditional passwords.

  • moralis:

    Moralis excels in blockchain integration, offering real-time database capabilities and user authentication for dApps. It simplifies backend development for blockchain applications, making it easier to manage user data and interactions.

Real-time Capabilities

  • firebase:

    Firebase offers real-time database capabilities, allowing developers to sync data across clients in real-time. This is particularly useful for applications requiring live updates, such as chat applications or collaborative tools.

  • ethers:

    Ethers.js does not provide real-time capabilities directly; it allows developers to listen to blockchain events and updates, which can be used to create real-time features in dApps.

  • next-auth:

    NextAuth.js does not provide real-time capabilities but can be integrated with real-time services to enhance user authentication flows in applications.

  • auth0:

    Auth0 does not offer real-time capabilities as it focuses on authentication and user management. It is primarily used for securing applications rather than providing real-time data features.

  • magic-sdk:

    Magic SDK does not provide real-time capabilities as it focuses on authentication. However, it can be integrated with other services that offer real-time features for a complete solution.

  • moralis:

    Moralis provides real-time capabilities for dApps, allowing developers to listen to blockchain events and updates. This is crucial for creating responsive and interactive decentralized applications.

Ease of Use

  • firebase:

    Firebase is known for its ease of use, offering a straightforward setup process and extensive documentation. Its integration with various platforms and languages simplifies backend development.

  • ethers:

    Ethers.js is designed to be simple and intuitive, with a clear API that makes it easy for developers to interact with the Ethereum blockchain, even for those new to blockchain development.

  • next-auth:

    NextAuth.js is easy to set up within Next.js applications, with a straightforward API and good documentation. It allows developers to quickly implement authentication without extensive configuration.

  • auth0:

    Auth0 is user-friendly with a comprehensive dashboard and extensive documentation, making it easy for developers to implement authentication features without deep security knowledge.

  • magic-sdk:

    Magic SDK is designed for ease of use, providing a simple API for passwordless authentication. Its focus on user experience makes it easy for developers to implement secure login flows.

  • moralis:

    Moralis is user-friendly, providing a comprehensive backend solution for dApps with minimal setup. Its extensive documentation and community support make it accessible for developers at all levels.

Community and Support

  • firebase:

    Firebase boasts a large community and strong support from Google, with comprehensive documentation, tutorials, and a variety of resources available for developers.

  • ethers:

    Ethers.js has a growing community and is well-documented, with numerous resources available for developers to learn and troubleshoot issues related to Ethereum development.

  • next-auth:

    NextAuth.js has a supportive community and good documentation, making it easy for developers to find answers and share experiences related to authentication in Next.js applications.

  • auth0:

    Auth0 has a large community and extensive support resources, including documentation, tutorials, and forums, making it easy for developers to find help and best practices.

  • magic-sdk:

    Magic SDK has an emerging community with growing resources, including documentation and tutorials, to help developers implement passwordless authentication effectively.

  • moralis:

    Moralis has a rapidly growing community and offers extensive support resources, including documentation, tutorials, and a dedicated Discord channel for developers to seek help.

How to Choose: firebase vs ethers vs next-auth vs auth0 vs magic-sdk vs moralis
  • firebase:

    Select Firebase if you require a backend-as-a-service solution that includes real-time databases, user authentication, and hosting. It is particularly useful for applications that need quick setup and scalability, especially for mobile and web apps.

  • ethers:

    Opt for Ethers.js when working specifically with Ethereum blockchain applications. It provides a simple and complete library for interacting with the Ethereum network, making it suitable for developers focused on building decentralized applications (dApps) and smart contracts.

  • next-auth:

    Select NextAuth.js if you are building a Next.js application and need a flexible authentication solution. It supports various authentication providers and is designed to work seamlessly with Next.js, making it a great choice for server-rendered applications.

  • auth0:

    Choose Auth0 if you need a comprehensive identity management solution that supports various authentication methods, including social logins, enterprise logins, and multi-factor authentication. It is ideal for applications requiring robust security and user management features.

  • magic-sdk:

    Use Magic SDK for passwordless authentication in web applications. It simplifies the user experience by allowing users to log in with their email or phone number, making it a great choice for projects focused on user experience and security without traditional passwords.

  • moralis:

    Choose Moralis for building decentralized applications that require real-time database capabilities and blockchain interactions. It provides a complete backend solution for dApps, including user authentication and data storage, making it ideal for developers looking to integrate blockchain features easily.

README for firebase

Build Status Version Coverage Status

Firebase - App success made simple

Upgrade to Version 9

Version 9 has a redesigned API that supports tree-shaking. Read the Upgrade Guide to learn more.

Overview

Firebase provides the tools and infrastructure you need to develop, grow, and earn money from your app. This package supports web (browser), mobile-web, and server (Node.js) clients.

For more information, visit:

  • Firebase Realtime Database - The Firebase Realtime Database lets you store and query user data, and makes it available between users in realtime.
  • Cloud Firestore - Cloud Firestore is a flexible, scalable database for mobile, web, and server development from Firebase and Google Cloud Platform.
  • Firebase Storage - Firebase Storage lets you upload and store user generated content, such as files, and images.
  • Cloud Functions for Firebase - Cloud Functions for Firebase is a serverless framework that lets you automatically run backend code in response to events triggered by Firebase features and HTTPS requests.
  • Firebase Cloud Messaging - Firebase Cloud Messaging is a cross-platform messaging solution that lets you reliably deliver messages at no cost.
  • Firebase Performance Monitoring - Firebase Performance Monitoring helps you gain insight into your app's performance issues.
  • Google Analytics - Google Analytics is a free app measurement solution that provides insight on app usage and user engagement.
  • Remote Config - Firebase Remote Config is a cloud service that lets you change the behavior and appearance of your app without requiring users to reload your app.
  • App Check - App Check helps protect your backend resources from abuse, such as billing fraud and phishing. It works with both Firebase services and your own backends to keep your resources safe.
  • Create and setup your account - Get started using Firebase for free.

This SDK is intended for end-user client access from environments such as the Web, mobile Web (e.g. React Native, Ionic), Node.js desktop (e.g. Electron), or IoT devices running Node.js. If you are instead interested in using a Node.js SDK which grants you admin access from a privileged environment (like a server), you should use the Firebase Admin Node.js SDK.

Install the SDK

Install the Firebase NPM module:

$ npm init
$ npm install --save firebase

Use Firebase in your app

  1. Initialize Firebase in your app and create a Firebase App object:
import { initializeApp } from 'firebase/app';

// TODO: Replace the following with your app's Firebase project configuration
const firebaseConfig = {
  //...
};

const app = initializeApp(firebaseConfig);
  1. Access Firebase services in your app

Firebase services (like Cloud Firestore, Authentication, Realtime Database, Remote Config, and more) are available to import within individual sub-packages.

The example below shows how you could use the Cloud Firestore Lite SDK to retrieve a list of data.

import { initializeApp } from 'firebase/app';
import { getFirestore, collection, getDocs } from 'firebase/firestore/lite';
// Follow this pattern to import other Firebase services
// import { } from 'firebase/<service>';

// TODO: Replace the following with your app's Firebase project configuration
const firebaseConfig = {
  //...
};

const app = initializeApp(firebaseConfig);
const db = getFirestore(app);

// Get a list of cities from your database
async function getCities(db) {
  const citiesCol = collection(db, 'cities');
  const citySnapshot = await getDocs(citiesCol);
  const cityList = citySnapshot.docs.map(doc => doc.data());
  return cityList;
}

Use a module bundler for size reduction

The Firebase Web SDK is designed to work with module bundlers to remove any unused code (tree-shaking). We strongly recommend using this approach for production apps. Tools such as the Angular CLI, Next.js, Vue CLI, or Create React App automatically handle module bundling for libraries installed through npm and imported into your codebase.

See Using module bundlers with Firebase for more information.

Script include

You can also load Firebase packages as script modules in browsers that support native ES modules.

<!-- use script module by specifying type="module" -->
<script type="module">
    import { initializeApp } from 'https://www.gstatic.com/firebasejs/${FIREBASE_VERSION}/firebase-app.js';
    import { getFirestore, collection, getDocs } from 'https://www.gstatic.com/firebasejs/${FIREBASE_VERSION}/firebase-firestore-lite.js';
    // Follow this pattern to import other Firebase services
    // import {} from "https://www.gstatic.com/firebasejs/${FIREBASE_VERSION}/firebase-analytics.js";
    // import {} from "https://www.gstatic.com/firebasejs/${FIREBASE_VERSION}/firebase-app-check.js";
    // import {} from "https://www.gstatic.com/firebasejs/${FIREBASE_VERSION}/firebase-auth.js";
    // import {} from "https://www.gstatic.com/firebasejs/${FIREBASE_VERSION}/firebase-functions.js";
    // import {} from "https://www.gstatic.com/firebasejs/${FIREBASE_VERSION}/firebase-firestore.js";
    // import {} from "https://www.gstatic.com/firebasejs/${FIREBASE_VERSION}/firebase-storage.js";
    // import {} from "https://www.gstatic.com/firebasejs/${FIREBASE_VERSION}/firebase-performance.js";
    // import {} from "https://www.gstatic.com/firebasejs/${FIREBASE_VERSION}/firebase-remote-config.js";
    // import {} from "https://www.gstatic.com/firebasejs/${FIREBASE_VERSION}/firebase-messaging.js";
    // import {} from "https://www.gstatic.com/firebasejs/${FIREBASE_VERSION}/firebase-database.js";
    
    // TODO: Replace the following with your app's Firebase project configuration
    const firebaseConfig = {
    //...
    };

    const app = initializeApp(firebaseConfig);
    const db = getFirestore(app);

    // Get a list of cities from your database
    async function getCities(db) {
    const citiesCol = collection(db, 'cities');
    const citySnapshot = await getDocs(citiesCol);
    const cityList = citySnapshot.docs.map(doc => doc.data());
    return cityList;
    }
</script>

Note: To get a filled in version of the above code snippet, go to the Firebase console for your app and click on "Add Firebase to your web app".

Get the code (Node.js - server and command line)

Install the SDK

While you can write entire Firebase applications without any backend code, many developers want to write server applications or command-line utilities using the Node.js JavaScript runtime.

You can use the same npm module to use Firebase in the Node.js runtime (on a server or running from the command line):

$ npm init
$ npm install --save firebase

In your code, you can access Firebase using:

const { initializeApp } = require('firebase/app');
const { getFirestore, collection, getDocs } = require('firebase/firestore');
// ...

If you are using native ES6 module with --experimental-modules flag (or Node 12+) you should do:

import { initializeApp } from 'firebase/app';
import { getFirestore, collection, getDocs } from 'firebase/firestore';
// ...

Please see Environment Support for which packages are available in Node.js.

Compat packages

Version 9 provides a set of compat packages that are API compatible with Version 8. They are intended to be used to make the upgrade to the modular API easier by allowing you to upgrade your app piece by piece. See the Upgrade Guide for more detail.

To access the compat packages, use the subpath compat like so:

// v9 compat packages are API compatible with v8 code
import firebase from 'firebase/compat/app';
import 'firebase/compat/auth';
import 'firebase/compat/firestore';

Changelog

The Firebase changelog can be found at firebase.google.com.

Browser/environment compatibility

Please see Environment Support.