Do I need managed PostgreSQL or can I self-host?

It depends on your priorities. You can absolutely self-host PostgreSQL, but managed PostgreSQL is usually the better default unless you have a strong reason not to.

Choose managed PostgreSQL if you want:

• Less ops work: backups, patching, failover, monitoring, upgrades
• Higher reliability: built-in replication and recovery options
• Easier scaling: storage/compute adjustments are usually simpler
• Faster launch: especially for startups, small teams, or MVPs

Choose self-hosted PostgreSQL if you want:

• Maximum control over configuration, extensions, networking, and storage
• Lower raw cost at scale if you have strong DB/platform expertise
• Custom deployment needs like unusual security/compliance setups or on-prem
• Full ownership of the infrastructure stack

Self-hosting is a good fit when:

• You already have strong DevOps/SRE coverage
• Your app is critical enough that you need very specific control
• You can handle:
  • backups and restore testing
  • replication and failover
  • upgrades and security patching
  • monitoring and alerting
  • capacity planning

Managed is usually better when:

• You’re a small team
• You don’t want database operations to become a product on its own
• You care more about shipping features than running DB infrastructure

Practical rule of thumb

• Most teams should start with managed PostgreSQL
• Consider self-hosting later if cost, control, or compliance needs justify the extra operational burden

If you want, I can help you decide based on your specific setup — e.g. team size, traffic, budget, cloud provider, and uptime requirements.