Honest, detailed comparisons to help you choose the right database-to-API tool. We respect every project on this list — they all solve real problems.
PostgREST turns PostgreSQL into a REST API. Faucet does the same for 7 databases, with built-in auth, an admin UI, and native MCP support.
Hasura is a GraphQL engine for databases. Faucet takes a REST-first approach with a single binary, no Docker, and native AI agent support via MCP.
Supabase is a full backend platform. Faucet is a lightweight API layer for existing databases. Different tools — and they work great together.
At a Glance
| Feature | Faucet | PostgREST | Hasura | Supabase |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Type | API layer | API layer | API engine | Full BaaS |
| API Style | REST + MCP | REST | GraphQL | REST + GraphQL |
| Databases | 7 databases | PostgreSQL only | Postgres + plugins | PostgreSQL only |
| Deployment | Single binary (47 MB) | Single binary | Docker / Cloud | Cloud / Docker stack |
| MCP Server (AI) | Native | No | No | No |
| Built-in Auth | RBAC + API keys + JWT | Via PG roles | Yes | Full auth system |
| Admin UI | Embedded | No | Cloud console | Dashboard |
| License | MIT | MIT | Apache 2.0 / proprietary | Apache 2.0 / proprietary |
| Self-hosted Price | Free forever | Free | Free (limited) | Complex setup |
One binary. Seven databases. Zero lock-in. Get started in 60 seconds.