Airtable Vs Firebase Vs SQL Databases: Which Is Best for Your App?

Choosing the wrong database can stall your project—and cost you significantly. Whether you’re building a responsive web app, a real-time mobile app, or a high-traffic enterprise platform, understanding different database options can help you make an informed decision.

In this blog, we walk you through Airtable comparison with Firebase and traditional SQL databases from the perspective of our web and mobile app development team. It includes explaining each platform’s strengths, limitations, and trade-offs, so you can choose the right database for your next project.

Without any further ado, let’s get started. 

Airtable Vs Firebase vs Traditional SQL Databases: Technology Overview

What is Airtable? 

Airtable is a cloud-based data management platform that helps store and organize data in a spreadsheet-like format. It allows teams to organize, manage, and link data using intuitive tables, views, and workflows. The best part, even non-technical users can use it without writing code.

What is Firebase?

Firebase is a Backend-as-a-Service (BaaS) platform developed by Google. It provides a suite of tools and services that simplify web and mobile app development. 

What are Traditional SQL Databases?  

Traditional SQL databases involve storing and managing structured data in tables with rows and columns. They offer full control and are ideal for systems requiring structured, relational data or complex custom logic.

For e.g. MySQL, Oracle, and SQL Server

Quick Airtable Comparison Table: Airtable Vs Firebase Vs Traditional Databases 

Let’s take a quick look at Airtable comparison with Firebase, and traditional SQL databases based on various parameters.

Feature / Criteria	Airtable	Firebase	Traditional Databases
Primary Use Case	Low-code data management	Real-time, serverless app backend	Customizable structured/unstructured storage
Ease of Use	Easy, even for non-technical users	Moderate with a managed backend	Less; Needs setup and backend integration
Collaboration	Excellent	Limited	Manual Implementation
Data Model	Tables with linked records	NoSQL or Realtime Database	Flexible — SQL or NoSQL
Automation & Integrations	Built-in automations & integrations with Slack and more tools	Integrates tightly with Google Cloud, Android, and Firebase services	Integrations must be configured manually using APIs
Hosting	Fully Cloud-hosted	Fully Cloud-hosted	Cloud or Self-hosted
Query Complexity	Limited query capabilities	Limited query capabilities	Full SQL/NoSQL querying
Security & Control	Low; No self-hosting	Low; No self-hosting	High; self-hosting available
Scalability	Moderate — record limits (250k per base)	Good, but costs rise with scalability	Excellent, but depends on database type
Pricing	Starting from $20/mo	Pay-as-you-go	~$30–60/mo (Cloud)
Recommended For	Easy data collaboration without coding	Building real-time, cross-platform apps	Custom and high-demand projects

When to Choose Airtable Vs Firebase Vs Traditional SQL Databases?

Let’s walk you through Airtable comparison with Firebase and other conventional databases via practical industry-centric examples.

Use Case 1: Internal CRM for a Startup

A small startup needs a simple, low-cost platform to manage partner contacts, track leads, and store meeting notes. They want a tool that even their non-technical team can update without help.

Solution — Airtable:

• Why it works: Airtable’s intuitive UI works well for everyone, including non-techies.
  
• What it delivers:
  
  • Quick setup in hours, not weeks
    
  • Easy collaboration with team members
    
  • Visual, customizable views for contacts, pipelines, and notes
    
• Result: The startup saves development costs, launches products fast, and enjoys complete control of the CRM. 

Use Case 2: Real-Time Event Booking App

An event company needs a web app that enables users to register and instantly see seat or ticket availability. Real-time updates are critical, so customers don’t overbook or miss events. The app also needs secure login and automated confirmations.

Solution — Firebase:

• Why it works: Firebase enables real-time data updates across all devices instantly.
  
• What it delivers:
  
  • Real-time inventory updates with zero page reloads
    
  • Firebase auth for secure logins
    
  • Cloud Functions for automated emails and quota updates
    
• Result: Customers get a smooth, instant booking experience while the company saves big on custom backend infrastructure.

Use Case 3: Custom Enterprise Inventory System

A multi-warehouse enterprise requires a highly customized system with:

• Role-based access control
• Real-time syncing between multiple warehouse databases
• Detailed audit logging for compliance
• Complex reporting and analytics

Solution — PostgreSQL + Express + React:

• Why it works: Traditional relational databases like PostgreSQL handle complex queries, enforce strict data integrity, and scale predictably.
  
• What it delivers:
  
  • Highly customizable workflows and permissions
    
  • Secure, auditable data management
    
  • Flexible integration with ERP or BI tools
    
• Result: The enterprise gets a long-term, scalable solution tailored exactly to their operational and compliance needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Airtable Vs Firebase or Traditional SQL Databases? Let’s Select the Database

There’s no single “best” backend — only the one that fits your project goals and long‑term vision. Many teams begin with Airtable for speed, switch to Firebase for real‑time capabilities, and later move to SQL for scale and flexibility.

Choosing wisely and save your valuable resources — months of redevelopment and thousands in migration costs. Our API integration services ensure the database you choose work seamlessly with your app’s architecture.

Whether you need help selecting database or a complete web or mobile app solution, we’re here to help. Book a free strategy call today