PGlite
PGlite: A PostgreSQL-compatible local database for browser apps that need SQL and extensions. Ranked #20 of 30 in Embedded Databases by our editors (6.8/10); pricing: Open source; best for browser apps needing PostgreSQL locally.
At a glance
- Editor score6.8 / 10
- PricingOpen source
- Best forBrowser apps needing PostgreSQL locally
- Paid fromFree
- Data synchronizationYes
- Facts checked20 Sep 2026
Where it wins
- Runs PostgreSQL in WebAssembly with SQL and extension support
- Offers in-memory, IndexedDB, filesystem, and OPFS storage
- Adds reactive queries and multi-tab Web Worker support
Where it doesn't
- Remote synchronization is provided through an alpha plugin
- Synchronization currently supports remote-to-local data flow only
- Browser persistence choices require application-specific storage decisions
Our verdict on PGlite
PGlite packages PostgreSQL compiled to WebAssembly as a TypeScript and JavaScript client library. It is designed for browser applications that need a relational, SQL-based local database, while also supporting Node.js, Bun, and Deno. Developers can embed it for local application data, development databases, testing databases, or browser-side workflows that benefit from PostgreSQL behavior and extensions.
Its storage options give applications room to choose between in-memory operation and persistent browser storage through IndexedDB or OPFS, with filesystem storage also available in supported runtimes. PostgreSQL extension support includes pgvector and PostGIS, while query and exec methods provide SQL access. Reactive live-query primitives can help applications respond to database changes, and multi-tab Web Worker support addresses browser applications that need database access across tabs or worker contexts.
PGlite is open source and dual-licensed, making it a fit for teams that want PostgreSQL locally without adopting a separate browser-specific query model. The main constraint is synchronization: the remote PostgreSQL integration is an alpha plugin, and its current behavior syncs data into PGlite rather than sending local writes back to the remote database. Teams that need mature bidirectional synchronization should choose another option. PGlite suits developers who value PostgreSQL compatibility, browser persistence choices, extensions, and reactive local queries; it is less suitable when synchronization is a core requirement and must be production-ready in both directions.
Your product? Our editors can test PGlite in depth and publish a review, labelled as paid · from $149/mo →
PGlite pricing
PGlite fact sheet
| Free plan | Not verified |
|---|---|
| Paid from | Free |
| Supported platforms | Browser; Node.js; Bun; Deno |
| Database model | Relational |
| Query interface | Sql |
| Encryption | Not verified |
| Data synchronization | Yes |
| Maximum database size | Not verified |
| Deployment | Cloud |
| Platforms | Web |
| Support | Docs |
| Built for | Solo, Small business, Mid-market, Enterprise (editorial estimate) |
| Pricing | Open source |
| Website | pglite.dev |
| Facts checked | 20 Sep 2026 |
Alternatives to PGlite
- SQLiteA capable, zero-configuration SQL engine for applications that need local embedded storage.9.4
- H2 Database EngineA flexible embedded SQL engine for Java applications, with self-hosted server options.9.1
- FirebirdA self-hosted SQL database with replication, backups, and multiple deployment architectures.9.0
Used PGlite? Be the first to review it
The editor score above is our own research. What this page doesn't have yet is a reader's view — what you used PGlite for, what worked and what didn't. No stars are seeded and no review is paid for; an editor reads every one before it appears.
Write a reviewTwo minutes · verified accounts only · read by an editor before it appears
Featured on iTechGuides
PGlite is listed in our Embedded Databases directory. Add the badge to your site — it links back to this page.
<a href="https://www.itechguides.com/products/pglite/"><img src="https://www.itechguides.com/best/badge/pglite.svg" alt="Featured on iTechGuides" width="230" height="46"></a>
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
Advertiser disclosure: iTechGuides is reader-supported. Vendors can pay for top positions in our rankings and for a place on other products' pages, and we may earn a commission when you click some links. Bought places stand at the number bought; this page and our disclosure say so. Paying vendors may get a fuller, more detailed review from our editors, and that review can change their score. How we rank.
Last updated · How we research and update