Hey everyone! I'm working on a web app using React, Node.js, Express, and PostgreSQL, and I'm trying to figure out where to host my server and database for free. I can deploy the frontend on Netlify easily, but I specifically need advice on free options for the backend and database. Also, I have a small Python API for running HDBSCAN that my Express app will be calling. I've never done this before, so I'm looking for guidance on how to deploy both the backend and the database with a mix of Python and Express. Would I need Docker for this setup? Any tips would be appreciated!
1 Answer
I totally understand your predicament! In my experience, all-in-one hosting platforms are great for quick setups, but they often come with limitations later on. If you're not expecting massive growth soon, using an all-in-one service can work for your initial testing phase. Just keep your system modular from the beginning! You might want to consider using an iPaaS like n8n or creating a simple custom API layer. That way, if you decide to scale up later, migrating won't be too painful.

Are there any free PaaS options you recommend? I’ve used Railway and Koyeb for deployments before, but I'm out of free resources now, and I really need a place for my small Python API alongside my Express app.