Side by side
Firebird vs SQLite
Both stand on relational databases. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan LinuxMacSelf-hosted+1
Firebird combines broad SQL capabilities with several deployment choices and a no-fee free plan. Check the maintained release series and recovery limits when choosing a version and backup approach.
Visit Firebird
Free plan Open source AndroidAPIiPhone+5
SQLite provides an embedded database with broad SQL capabilities and a simple single-file format. Its one-writer-per-file limit is important when evaluating it for write-heavy workloads.
Visit SQLiteThe facts
| Firebird | SQLite | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Yes |
| Runs on | Linux, Mac, Self-hosted, Windows | Android, API, iPhone, Linux, Mac, Self-hosted, Web, Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | Enterprise subscription: €199 a month | See the plans |
| Plans published | 2 | 10 |
| Maker | Not published | SQLite |
| Website | firebirdsql.org | sqlite.org |
| On relational databases | #7 of 38 | #3 of 38 |
Firebird: what it does well
- Free plan includes commercial distribution.
- Reader access usually does not block writers.
- Offers four deployment architectures.
- Online and incremental backup options are available.
- Drivers cover Java, .NET, Python, and more.
What to know first
- Firebird 2.5 and earlier series are discontinued.
- Point-in-time recovery is only partially supported.
- Enterprise subscription is €199 a month.
SQLite: what it does well
- A complete database is stored in one cross-platform file.
- Supports JSON and window functions.
- Transactions remain durable through crashes and power failures.
- Free for commercial and private use.
What to know first
- Only one writer can use a database file at a time.
- The project recommends it for content below a terabyte.
- Private email and technical support are paid options.
Alternatives to Firebird Alternatives to SQLite The whole list