Convex vs Pusher(2026)
Convex is better for teams that need real-time by default. Pusher is the stronger choice if simple to integrate. Convex is freemium (from $25/month) and Pusher is freemium (from $49/month).
Full feature breakdown, pricing details, and pros & cons below.
By Bikram Nath
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Convex
Convex is a reactive backend platform where database queries automatically push updates to clients in real time.
Starting at $25/month
Visit ConvexPusher
Pusher provides hosted realtime APIs (WebSockets) for adding live features to web and mobile apps.
Starting at $49/month
Visit PusherHow Do Convex and Pusher Compare on Features?
| Feature | Convex | Pusher |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing model | freemium | freemium |
| Starting price | $25/month | $49/month |
| Reactive queries | ✓ | — |
| TypeScript functions | ✓ | — |
| Built-in database | ✓ | — |
| File storage | ✓ | — |
| Scheduled jobs | ✓ | — |
| Auth integration | ✓ | — |
| WebSocket channels | — | ✓ |
| Presence channels | — | ✓ |
| Private channels | — | ✓ |
| Webhooks | — | ✓ |
| Client libraries | — | ✓ |
| Encrypted connections | — | ✓ |
Convex Pros and Cons vs Pusher
Convex
Pusher
Should You Use Convex or Pusher?
For most teams, Convex is the better default: it offers real-time by default and is freemium (from $25/month). Choose Pusher instead if simple to integrate matters more than full platform lock-in. There is no universal winner — the right pick depends on your budget, team size, and whether you value real-time by default or simple to integrate more.
Choose Convex if…
- •Real-time by default
- •TypeScript end-to-end
- •No separate WebSocket setup
Choose Pusher if…
- •Simple to integrate
- •Battle-tested reliability
- •Multiple language SDKs