Why PocketBase Is the Ultimate One‑File Backend for Rapid Development

1. Core Features

1.1 Built‑in real‑time database

PocketBase includes an embedded SQLite database with ACID transactions, ensuring data safety. It supports WebSocket subscriptions so clients receive instant updates, e.g., chat messages appear immediately.

// Real‑time subscription example (JavaScript SDK)
client.collection('posts').subscribe('*', (e) => {
  console.log('Data change:', e.record);
});

1.2 All‑in‑one backend services

User management : registration, login, OAuth, permissions, JWT support.

File storage : upload files locally or to cloud services such as AWS S3.

Admin panel : visual interface for data, batch operations, custom views without coding.

1.3 Simple, extensible API

REST‑ish API : standard CRUD with filtering, sorting, pagination. Example:

GET /api/collections/posts/records?filter=views>100&sort=-created

Plugin system : extend functionality with JavaScript or Go for custom logic like payment callbacks.

1.4 Easy tech stack and deployment

The backend is written in Go (≈65 % of the code) for high performance and cross‑platform support, while the admin UI uses Svelte. Deploy by downloading the single binary or using Docker.

2. Get Started in Minutes

2.1 Download and run

./pocketbase serve

This starts a complete backend service instantly.

2.2 Open the admin UI

Visit http://localhost:8090 in a browser to access the visual management console for databases, users, files, and API settings.

PocketBase enables rapid backend development with minimal code, suitable for both beginners and experienced developers.

Explore the project on GitHub: https://github.com/pocketbase/pocketbase