Overview:
PocketBase is an open source Go backend that provides an embedded SQLite database with realtime subscriptions, built-in user and file management, and an admin dashboard UI. It exposes a REST-ish API for interacting with these features. Designed for developers, it can be used as a standalone executable or integrated as a Go library to build custom business logic. The project is still under active development before its v1.0.0 release. It includes official JavaScript and Dart SDK clients for easier API interaction across various platforms.
Core Features:
Embedded database: Uses SQLite with support for realtime data subscriptions.
Realtime subscriptions: Allows clients to receive live updates on database changes.
Built-in files and users management: Provides out-of-the-box handling for user accounts and file uploads.
Admin dashboard UI: Includes a pre-built graphical interface for managing the backend.
REST-ish API: Offers a simple API for programmatic access to all backend functionality.
JavaScript VM plugin: Allows extending the backend with JavaScript code in the standalone mode.
Use Cases:
Developers building backend services: Can use PocketBase as a self-contained backend with database, auth, and file storage.
Developers needing realtime data: Can leverage the embedded realtime subscriptions for live updates in applications.
Developers extending functionality: Can add custom logic via JavaScript (standalone mode) or by embedding PocketBase as a Go library to build custom business logic.
Why It Matters:
PocketBase offers a complete backend solution in a single portable executable, combining a database, admin UI, and API without external dependencies. Its dual-use approach—as a standalone app or a Go library for custom applications—provides flexibility for different development workflows. The inclusion of official SDKs for JavaScript and Dart reduces integration effort, and the JavaScript VM plugin makes extension accessible to a wider range of developers beyond Go.
