My Experience with Convex · University of Code

My Experience with Convex

Convex can be a great backend choice for certain types of applications—especially those that prioritize real-time sync, ease of use, and rapid development. Here's why Convex might be a good fit:

✅ 1. Real-Time Data Sync Built In

Convex provides reactive queries that automatically re-run and update UI components when the underlying data changes. This is perfect for:

Chat apps
Collaborative tools
Dashboards
Multiplayer apps

No need to manually set up WebSockets or polling.

✅ 2. Full-Stack Type Safety

Convex uses TypeScript end-to-end:

Backend logic written in serverless functions (in TS)
Automatically type-safe database queries
Seamless integration with frontend frameworks like React, Next.js, and React Native

This reduces runtime bugs and improves developer productivity.

✅ 3. No API Layer Required

You don’t need to build a separate REST or GraphQL API.

Just write backend functions
Call them directly from the frontend using Convex client

This removes a lot of boilerplate and complexity.

✅ 4. Scalable Serverless Architecture

Convex handles:

Auto-scaling
Data storage
Compute
Deployment

You don’t have to manage infrastructure, making it ideal for indie hackers, small teams, and rapid MVPs.

✅ 5. Document-Oriented Database with Built-in Auth

Convex includes:

A powerful document database
Schema validation with TypeScript
Built-in user authentication (supports social logins via Auth0 or custom logic)

This lets you focus on features, not plumbing.

✅ 6. Excellent Dev Experience

Hot reload for backend functions
Instant deploys
Introspective dev tools
Great docs and community

This means a shorter feedback loop and faster development cycle.

✅ 7. Ideal for Modern React Stack

If you're using:

Next.js
Expo/React Native
Tailwind
tRPC/Zustand/React Query

Convex fits right in with your stack, especially for reactive and collaborative apps.

When Convex May Not Be Ideal:

You need SQL-style relational queries or transactions across relations
You want fine-tuned backend control or infra access
Your app requires offline-first support (this is currently limited)
You need vendor lock-in freedom or self-hosting options (Convex is not open-source as of now)

Good Use Cases