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PGlite review

Free#20 of 30 in Embedded Databases

A PostgreSQL-compatible local database for browser apps that need SQL and extensions.

6.8/10Editor score
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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026

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.

PGlite pros and cons

  • 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

PGlite fact sheet, pricing and score →

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