Convex vs DuckDB
Updated June 2026 · A structured head-to-head comparison.
The verdict
Both Convex and DuckDB are credible databases tools, and the right pick comes down to your priorities.
Convex — The reactive backend for app developers.
DuckDB — The in-process analytical database (SQLite for analytics).
Convex vs DuckDB: side by side
| Dimension | Convex | DuckDB |
|---|---|---|
| Starting price | Free – $25/mo | Free |
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Pricing model | Freemium | Open source |
| Best for | Developers, Startups | Data Teams, Developers |
| Platforms | Web, Api | Self Hosted, Api |
| Rating | 4.7/5 | 4.8/5 |
Convex key facts
- Vendor
- Convex
- Pricing
- Freemium — Free – $25/mo
- Free tier
- Yes
- Platforms
- Web, Api
- Best for
- Developers, Startups
- Editor rating
- 4.7 / 5
- Founded
- 2021
- Headquarters
- San Francisco, CA, USA
DuckDB key facts
- Vendor
- DuckDB
- Pricing
- Open source — Free
- Free tier
- Yes
- Platforms
- Self Hosted, Api
- Best for
- Data Teams, Developers
- Editor rating
- 4.8 / 5
- Founded
- 2019
- Headquarters
- Amsterdam, Netherlands
Frequently asked questions
Is Convex better than DuckDB?
Neither is universally better — DuckDB edges ahead on overall rating, but the best choice depends on price, platforms, and your use case. See the side-by-side table above.
Is Convex or DuckDB cheaper?
Convex is the more affordable of the two to get started, at free – $25/mo. Convex starts at free – $25/mo; DuckDB starts at free.
Can Convex replace DuckDB?
Yes for most teams — both are databases tools with heavily overlapping features. The main trade-offs are pricing and platform support, covered in the comparison above.