What is SurrealDB?
SurrealDB is a next-generation open-source multi-model database that supports SQL, document, graph, and key-value data — all within a single engine. Unlike traditional databases that lock you into one model, SurrealDB lets developers handle multiple data types seamlessly, making it a flexible choice for modern applications.
Why SurrealDB is Gaining Attention
Databases have always been about trade-offs: relational systems like PostgreSQL offer strong consistency, while document stores like MongoDB alternatives such as FerretDB focus on flexibility.
SurrealDB challenges this model by offering:
- SQL + NoSQL Hybrid: Supports traditional SQL queries and schema-less data.
- Multi-Model Power: Document, graph, and relational data combined in one engine.
- Cloud-Native & Serverless Ready: Built for distributed, edge, and modern app deployments.
- Security First: Built-in authentication, row-level permissions, and encryption.
In short: SurrealDB isn’t just another NoSQL option — it’s an all-in-one database for developers tired of juggling multiple systems.
Key Features of SurrealDB
1. SQL Meets JSON
You can query JSON documents with full SQL syntax. This means developers don’t have to learn a completely new query language.
2. Multi-Model Flexibility
- Relational: Structured tables with schema support
- Document: Store flexible JSON objects
- Graph: Native graph traversal and relationships
- Key-Value: Ultra-fast lookups
3. Real-Time Queries & Subscriptions
Built-in support for live queries and WebSockets allows real-time data sync without external tools.
4. Access Control & Security
SurrealDB integrates row-level permissions, making it developer-friendly for SaaS and multi-tenant apps.
5. Cloud-Native Architecture
Designed for serverless, distributed, and edge computing, SurrealDB scales effortlessly.
SurrealDB vs Traditional Databases
| Feature | SurrealDB | PostgreSQL | MongoDB | Neo4j |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Data Models | Relational, Document, Graph, KV | Relational | Document | Graph |
| Query Language | SQL + JSON | SQL | BSON/JSON | Cypher |
| Real-Time Queries | ✅ | ❌ | Limited | ✅ |
| Multi-Tenancy | Built-in | External Setup | External Setup | External Setup |
| Cloud-Native | ✅ | Requires Setup | Requires Setup | Requires Setup |
SurrealDB combines the strengths of multiple systems — relational queries from PostgreSQL, document flexibility from MongoDB, and graph capabilities like Neo4j — into one.
Common Questions About SurrealDB
Is SurrealDB open-source?
Yes, SurrealDB is fully open-source and actively developed, with a growing community and enterprise-ready features.
How does SurrealDB store data?
It stores data in flexible JSON documents while still supporting relational tables and graph edges, giving developers multiple options.
Can SurrealDB replace MongoDB or Neo4j?
In many cases, yes. SurrealDB can handle workloads that previously required separate document or graph databases, making it a strong alternative.
Who should use SurrealDB?
- Startups building serverless apps
- Enterprises needing real-time data sync
- Developers tired of managing multiple specialized databases
SurrealDB Use Cases
- SaaS Applications: Built-in permissions and flexible models reduce backend complexity.
- IoT and Edge Computing: Cloud-native and lightweight deployment options.
- Real-Time Apps: Live queries and WebSocket support for chat apps, dashboards, and multiplayer games.
- AI & Knowledge Graphs: Combines vector-like flexibility with graph structures for machine learning pipelines.
For AI-specific workloads, you may also explore open-source vector databases like Qdrant, Milvus, or Weaviate.
Getting Started with SurrealDB
- Installation: Works on Docker, binaries, or cloud-native environments.
- Querying: Use SQL with JSON support.
- Integration: Easy to connect with Node.js, Go, Rust, Python, and other ecosystems.
If you’re looking for fully managed SurrealDB hosting, OctaByte offers a managed SurrealDB service so you can focus on building instead of maintaining infrastructure.
Conclusion
SurrealDB is one of the most exciting open-source databases to watch in 2025. By merging SQL, NoSQL, graph, and document capabilities, it gives developers the freedom to design without the overhead of multiple systems. Whether you’re building SaaS apps, real-time platforms, or AI-powered solutions, SurrealDB is worth a serious look.
Want more open-source hosting insights? Don’t miss our Ultimate Guide to Open-Source Databases (2025).
FAQ
Q1. What makes SurrealDB different from MongoDB? SurrealDB supports multiple models (relational, graph, document, key-value) in one engine, whereas MongoDB is primarily a document store.
Q2. Does SurrealDB support real-time applications? Yes, SurrealDB has native live queries and WebSocket integration for real-time sync, ideal for chat, dashboards, and IoT apps.
Q3. Can I use SurrealDB with serverless platforms? Absolutely. SurrealDB is cloud-native and works seamlessly with serverless and edge deployments.
Q4. Is SurrealDB production-ready? Yes, it’s being used in production by early adopters, and its features are continuously improving with community and enterprise support.