Choosing a WebSocket Backend for Laravel: Reverb vs. Centrifugo (and Alternatives)

Understanding the Moving Parts

Architecture Diagram (Text Version)

[Frontend Clients]
      │ (Laravel Echo / centrifuge-js / raw WebSocket)
      ▼
[ WebSocket Server Layer ]   <───>   [ Redis Pub/Sub ] (optional for scale)
      ▲
      │ (via Broadcast Driver)
      ▼
[ Laravel Application ]

Laravel Reverb

Centrifugo

SaaS Options: Pusher and Ably

Socket.IO

Cost and Break-Even Summary

Decision Guide for Architects

Key Questions to Ask

Conclusion

Related Documentations