How to choose the right database for your Bubble app
Bubble's internal database is easy to use and allows you to quickly set up the data structure needed for your app. However, if you require more features or flexibility, an external database can offer a better solution.
In this post we’ll explore the benefits and when you should look at a third party option.
Benefits of Bubble’s database
The main benefit of using Bubble’s native database is the rapid speed of development. With Bubble, you can build and modify the schema inside the same editor, while still being able to maintain type safety with its native search feature. This means you can build and modify your product quickly and efficiently, without having to configure or make changes to an API. Moreover, Bubble's search feature allows you to easily search for the data you need, making your development process much more efficient.
User experience is improved by having the workflows in the same platform, which allows for better feedback during the development process. Additionally, Bubble has a real-time database and web sockets, meaning users can see changes in data without needing to make another call to the backend or database, or refresh the page.
When should I move to an external database?
In certain scenarios, leveraging an external database like Xano is advantageous for a variety of reasons. For instance, if you are planning on migrating away from Bubble or would like to create a mobile app or some other front end, then using an external database can be incredibly beneficial.
Xano is the no-code backend development platform we use and recommend in these scenarios. It’s scalable, has a flexible database, and using its no-code API builder, we can transform and integrate data from any source.
Additionally, you'll be able to leverage the scalability of Xano's external databases, meaning that your data can grow as your application grows. This scalability is particularly useful if you have an application that is growing quickly and need a reliable, efficient way to store and access data from multiple front ends.
Efficient development is key
But for the most part, Bubble’s inbuilt database will get the job done. It's a Postgres database hosted on AWS, and there are no limits to the number of records.
In our experience, speed and performance depend on setting up the correct data schema, good user experience design, and using techniques such as "process spreading" for intensive backend workflows.
If you’re at a decision point or need advice on how to scale your app, let’s talk!