Graphile Worker
Open-source PostgreSQL job queue for Node.js applications
At a glance
- Editor scoreNot yet scored
- PricingOpen source
- Best forPostgreSQL queues with job deduplication
- Paid fromNone
- Deployment modelSelf_hosted
- Facts checked20 Sep 2026
Where it wins
- Automatic retries with exponential backoff and configurable retry counts
- Job deduplication, batching, priorities, and named queues
- Standalone or embedded execution with delayed and recurring tasks
Where it doesn't
- Self-hosted deployment requires PostgreSQL and operational ownership
- No separate dead-letter queue is described
- Integrations are focused on PostGraphile and PostgREST
Our verdict on Graphile Worker
Graphile Worker is an open-source task queue that stores jobs in PostgreSQL and executes them with Node.js. It fits engineering teams building applications on PostgreSQL and Node.js that want background processing without operating a separate queue service. Jobs can be created with JavaScript or SQL, while standalone and embedded execution modes support different application architectures. Linux, macOS, and Windows are supported, with self-hosted deployment as the deployment model.
Its strongest technical coverage is job control. Automatic retries use exponential backoff, and the retry count is configurable. Delayed execution supports scheduled work, while cron-like recurring tasks can optionally backfill missed runs. Job keys provide deduplication, and batch jobs include partial retry handling. Named queues, priority controls, and parallel execution add useful control when workloads have different urgency or processing requirements. These capabilities make Graphile Worker a good fit for applications that need more than simple one-off background jobs.
The trade-off is focus. Graphile Worker is closely aligned with the PostgreSQL ecosystem, including integrations with PostGraphile and PostgREST, rather than a broad integration catalog. It also does not provide a separate dead-letter queue, although permanently failed jobs are retained for inspection. Teams should choose it when PostgreSQL-backed processing, JavaScript or SQL job creation, and deduplication are central requirements. Teams seeking a hosted queue, a separate dead-letter workflow, or wider platform integrations should consider an alternative.
Graphile Worker pricing
Graphile Worker fact sheet
| Free plan | Not verified |
|---|---|
| Paid from | None |
| Deployment model | Self_hosted |
| Custom retry policy | Yes |
| Scheduled jobs | Yes |
| Dead-letter queue | No |
| Maximum payload size | Not verified |
| Official SDK languages | JavaScript, TypeScript |
| Deployment | Self-hosted |
| Platforms | Linux, macOS, Windows |
| Support | Community, Docs |
| Built for | Small business, Mid-market (editorial estimate) |
| Integrations | 2 integrations: PostGraphile, PostgREST |
| Pricing | Open source |
| Website | worker.graphile.org |
| Facts checked | 20 Sep 2026 |
Graphile Worker integrations
Graphile Worker lists 2 integrations on its own site.
- PostGraphile
- PostgREST
Alternatives to Graphile Worker
- HatchetA code-first queue for durable execution, observable workflows, and AI task orchestration.5.0
- Trigger.devA strong fit for durable TypeScript tasks, queues, retries, and preview environments.4.6
- InngestA flexible task engine for serverless teams that need durable, observable execution.4.6
See all Graphile Worker alternatives →
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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Sep 2026
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