Firestore vs MongoDB

Google's real-time database that makes syncing feel like magic, until you hit the query limits meets the database for when you want to store json and pretend it's a schema. Here's our take.

Firestore

Nice Pick

Google's real-time database that makes syncing feel like magic, until you hit the query limits.

Pros

• Real-time data synchronization out of the box
• Offline support for mobile and web apps
• Automatic scaling with minimal operational overhead
• Seamless integration with Firebase and Google Cloud services

Cons

• Query limitations can be restrictive for complex data structures
• Costs can escalate quickly with high read/write volumes

MongoDB

The database for when you want to store JSON and pretend it's a schema.

Pros

• Flexible schema allows rapid prototyping and iteration
• Native JSON-like document storage fits well with modern web apps
• Horizontal scaling with sharding is straightforward
• Aggregation pipeline is powerful for complex queries

Cons

• Lack of enforced schema can lead to messy data over time
• Joins are clunky compared to relational databases

The Verdict

Use Firestore if: You want real-time data synchronization out of the box and can live with query limitations can be restrictive for complex data structures.

Use MongoDB if: You prioritize flexible schema allows rapid prototyping and iteration over what Firestore offers.

The Bottom Line

Firestore wins

Google's real-time database that makes syncing feel like magic, until you hit the query limits.