Databases

Working with databases in your matt-init project

Turso (SQLite)

What is Turso?

Turso is a distributed SQLite platform that brings SQLite to the edge. It's compatible with standard SQLite but adds features like replication, backups, and global distribution.

Why SQLite/Turso?

Fast: SQLite is incredibly fast for most use cases
Simple: No complex setup or configuration
Portable: Database is just a file, easy to backup and move
Edge-compatible: Works in serverless environments
Cost-effective: Generous free tier, pay-as-you-go pricing

Local Development

Pre-requisites

Turso CLI - Install via Nix, or download from Turso Downloads.

Starting the Database

When you run pnpm dev with backend enabled, two things happen:

pnpm dev
# [0] sqld listening on port 8080
# [1] ▲ Next.js ready at http://localhost:3000

[0] - Turso local server (sqld) on port 8080
[1] - Next.js development server on port 3000

Database File

Your local database is stored as local.db in your project root. This file contains all your data and can be:

Backed up by copying the file
Reset by deleting the file (will be recreated on next pnpm dev)
Shared with teammates (though not recommended for sensitive data)

Environment Variables

# Local development
TURSO_DATABASE_URL=http://127.0.0.1:8080
TURSO_AUTH_TOKEN=  # Empty for local development

Database Operations

Database operations are handled using Drizzle ORM, which provides a type-safe way to interact with your SQLite database. Check the documentation for Drizzle ORM to learn how to define schemas, run queries, and manage migrations.

Future Database Options

Coming Soon

Neon (Postgres) - Serverless Postgres with modern features
Docker Postgres - Local Postgres development with Docker
Supabase - Full-stack Postgres with auth and storage