What are some quantitative advantages of using Firebase over MongoDB? (not opinions)
I know that Firebase is a cloud based service with it's own API, but I feel like Mongo may give me greater control in the long run.
Answer
- Firebase is a real-time engine with backward connectivity. I.e. you might build a cross-platform app where clients subscribe to events on specific data and server actively informs clients about changes
- The data layer is hosted for you. Mind that it is highly scalable. It's a nice kickstarter solution. Including auth management
- Geo-Fire. Real-time geo coordinates solution.
- Evident drawbacks of Firebase are:
- You have to pay for it as soon as you start growing
- You can't host datalayer (if owning data is critical or you develop an app for some separated subnet)
EDIT: here is a nice article how to replace Firebase in your app with Node.js+MongoDb. It shows how much work you would have to do on your own, and explains, IMHO, why a startup (small app) should begin with Firebase (if real-time updates to clients are required) and proceed with MongoDb (in any case self-written solution) if the project keeps evolving
EDIT 2: after being acquired by Google Firebase now offers various perks on top of its basic features which you would struggle to build on your own:
For development
- Cloud Messaging: Deliver and receive messages across platforms reliably
- File Storage: Easy file storage (including iOS)
- Hosting: deliver static files from Firebase's servers (Included in Free plan)
- Crash Reporting: Not a full logging service, but crucial help
For growth
- Remote Config: Customize your app on the fly: suitable for A/B testing
- Dynamic Links: Send users to the right place inside your app
- Notifications: Engage with users at the right moment