PGlite

Overview

PGlite is a lightweight WASM build of PostgreSQL 17.4 that runs directly in the browser, Node.js, and Bun with no external dependencies. It provides a full Postgres query engine with extensions, transactions, COPY support, and listen/notify in under 3MB gzipped.

When to use: Local-first apps needing a real SQL engine, browser-based analytics, offline-capable PWAs, embedded Postgres for testing, prototyping without a server.

When NOT to use: High-concurrency server workloads (use native Postgres), apps requiring full Postgres replication, Safari OPFS storage (not supported), write-heavy multi-tab scenarios without leader election.

Quick Reference