Every automation system needs a database. But which one? We’ve built production automations on all three platforms. Here’s what works, what breaks, and what we actually recommend.
Supabase — The Developer’s Choice
Supabase gives you a full PostgreSQL database with a REST API, real-time subscriptions, authentication, and edge functions. The free tier includes 500MB storage and unlimited API requests. It’s the most powerful option and the one we use for all production automations.
Pros: Real SQL, incredible free tier, REST API, real-time features.
Cons: Steeper learning curve than Airtable, requires basic SQL knowledge.
Firebase — The Google Ecosystem Pick
Firebase (Firestore) is a NoSQL document database with real-time sync, authentication, and hosting. It’s deeply integrated with the Google ecosystem. The free Spark plan is generous but the NoSQL data model requires different thinking.
Pros: Real-time sync, Google integration, generous free tier, great mobile support.
Cons: NoSQL limitations, complex querying, vendor lock-in, pricing surprises at scale.
Airtable — The Non-Technical Choice
Airtable looks like a spreadsheet but functions as a database. It’s the easiest option for non-technical users. But it hits walls fast — 50,000 records per base on the free plan, limited API rate limits, and no real SQL.
Pros: Easiest to learn, great UI, built-in automations, Zapier-friendly.
Cons: Record limits, expensive at scale, no real SQL, API rate limits.
Our Recommendation
For automation-heavy businesses, Supabase wins. The free tier handles most needs, the REST API connects to everything, and PostgreSQL means your data model can grow without limits. Learn basic SQL (it takes a weekend) and you’ll never hit the walls that Airtable and Firebase create.