What's your preferred database solution for n8n automation workflows? Looking for recommendations on Airtable, NocoDB, Google Sheets, etc.

Other Questions Google Sheets
1

Hi everyone! I’m looking for advice on database options for my n8n automation projects.

I keep switching between different database solutions and want to know what others are using. Here are the ones I’ve tested:

  • Airtable - Nice interface but API limits on free tier
  • NocoDB - Self-hosted option that works well
  • Google Sheets - Easy to use but gets complicated with larger datasets
  • CockroachDB - Full SQL database but maybe too complex for simple tasks

Each has pros and cons, and I’m spending too much time deciding which one to use for each project. Some integrate better with n8n than others.

What database are you currently using with n8n and why did you choose it?

Also interested to hear which ones gave you the most trouble or worked smoothly in your workflows. Thanks for sharing your experiences!

2

firebase firestore’s been my main choice for months. real-time sync is clutch, and the nosql structure handles automation data perfectly. google’s free tier beats airtable’s too. complex filtering gets weird with queries, but standard crud operations work smoothly. plays nice with n8n webhooks as well.

3

Switched to Supabase 6 months ago - best decision ever. It’s PostgreSQL underneath but way easier to set up than running your own database. Real-time features work great with n8n webhooks, and I can build custom API endpoints right in Supabase for my workflows to call. Built-in auth saved me hours on user management stuff. The dashboard lets non-tech users see data without extra tools. Free tier handles most automation projects, scaling’s painless. Works perfectly with n8n - no connection drops or timeout headaches like other solutions gave me.

4

Been running PostgreSQL with n8n for 8 months - wish I’d switched sooner. Performance absolutely destroys Google Sheets, especially with thousands of records. Setup felt scary at first but once configured, it’s bulletproof. Best part? No rate limits like Airtable, and the n8n postgres node crushes complex queries. Joins, aggregations, bulk ops - no timeout worries. Only catch is non-tech team members can’t see the data visually, but I just throw together quick frontends with n8n webhooks when needed. I use managed postgres on DigitalOcean for $15/month - worth every penny to avoid maintenance hell. Rock solid reliability, zero integration problems with workflows.