Why it's an alternative to Firebase: Open-source realtime backend with database, auth, file storage and admin UI in a single Go binary.
made byGGGani Georgiev
2 indie alternatives · Developer Tools
Indie alternatives to Firebase (2026)
Firebase is Google's backend-as-a-service, which ties you to Google Cloud and its usage-based pricing. Developers look for open-source backends they can run themselves. Below are 2 alternatives built by independent makers — PocketBase and Userbase — with what each does differently, who makes it and any revenue they have shared publicly.
Firebase alternatives at a glance
Jump to any product for the full write-up.
| # | Product | Maker | Status | Reported revenue |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | PocketBase | Gani Georgiev | Active | — |
| 2 | Userbase | Daniel Vassallo | Active | — |
The 2 best indie alternatives to Firebase
Each product is made and run by an independent maker or a small, self-directed team.
Why it's an alternative to Firebase: Open-source, end-to-end encrypted backend for building secure web apps without writing a server.
made by
Daniel Vassallo
Daniel VassalloWhy choose an indie-made tool?
You talk to the maker
With a small product, support requests and feature ideas usually reach the person who wrote the code, and many makers build in public and reply to users directly.
Focused and fairly priced
Small teams tend to do one job well instead of bundling every feature into enterprise tiers, and many indie tools offer one-time licenses, open-source editions or free plans.
Built by real people
These 2 alternatives come from 2 makers in United States. Paying them funds a sustainable, independent business.
Meet the makers: Gani Georgiev, Daniel Vassallo.
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Firebase alternatives FAQ
What are the best indie alternatives to Firebase?
IndieMakerList lists 2 indie-made alternatives to Firebase: PocketBase (by Gani Georgiev) and Userbase (by Daniel Vassallo).
Why do people look for alternatives to Firebase?
Firebase is Google's backend-as-a-service, which ties you to Google Cloud and its usage-based pricing. Developers look for open-source backends they can run themselves.
Who builds these Firebase alternatives?
They are built by 2 independent makers from 1 country, including United States, rather than a large company. Each maker has a profile on IndieMakerList with their other products and links.
Are these Firebase alternatives still maintained?
Yes. As far as IndieMakerList knows, all 2 are active and still run by the makers who built them.
Built an indie alternative to Firebase? Submit a maker to IndieMakerList →