PostgreSQL or MySQL – which solution is better?

Databases are integral components of virtually any IT software. However, it will be different to have a simple system that handles basic queries, and another to have a database that responds to a series of complex commands. Currently, two of the most popular programs are used in the field of databases: MySQL and PostgreSQL. Choosing one of the two options should not be a coincidence, as each has its own strong areas that give it an advantage over its competitor.

What is MySQL?

MySQL is currently the most popular database used by developers – statistically, every second database is hosted on this system. It was first released in 1995 to support dynamic web applications. It was written in C/C++, and security is guaranteed by the TSL protocol. The system is lightweight, fast, but has some limitations, as a result of which it is mainly used for simple web projects. Its popularity is due in part to the fact that it is part of LAMP, an open set of web applications (Linux, HTTP Apache, MySQL and PHP). The basic version of MySQL is made available under an open-source license, but the extended, paid version offers additional functionality, dedicated plug-ins and official Oracle support. MySQL solutions have been used in projects such as Facebook, Google and NASA.

What is PostgreSQL?

PostgreSQL is the second most popular database, and its use has been growing rapidly over the past decade. Postgres – for that is the slang name of the system – saw the light of day in 1986 and originated from… a university project. Originally, the University of Berkeley (California) established the Ingres Project in 1977, which was to be the first relational database system. Project coordinator Dr. Michael Stonebraker decided to expand the project, resulting in Post-Ingres, or “Postgres” for short. The system as we know it today was released in 1995 after the original application was equipped with additional features, including. SQL language interpreter. It can be said that between 1995 and 2010 it was somewhat “ahead of its time” – it was an advanced database, too advanced for widespread use. However, with the popularization of social media and the development of e-commerce, it has become apparent that PostgreSQL is even indispensable. Companies and apps such as Apple, Instagram and Etsy rely on it.

PostgreSQL and MySQL – key differences

The very first sentence of the description of the above two systems indicates the difference between MySQL and PostgreSQL. The first program is a relational database, while the second is an object-relational database. This means that a certain “tolerance” of abstractions, such as table inheritance, appears in Postgres. PostgreSQL is a more efficient database, capable of handling complex queries in significant numbers. MySQL makes up for this with its dynamism in handling simple queries and managing smaller web applications. This is also followed by intuitiveness of use – non-IT staff and people who are just starting out in IT will find MySQL easier. Clustering and replication are worth noting – here Postgres fares better, leading the way if only because it supports cascades. It is these differences combined with the customer’s needs that determine which solution our 4B Systems team will use. Knowing the purpose of the application, we are able to answer which solution is better.

Which is better – PostgreSQL or MySQL?

The question posed this way will not be quite right, because the answer will always be “it depends.” It’s like asking a driver what would be better – a sporty roadster or a spacious minivan. Similarly, the choice of PostgreSQL or MySQL is always based on what purpose the database is to be created for. The simplest accepted division is based on the degree of expansion and complexity of the recorded data. While Postgres works well with huge amounts of information where there are complex correlations, MySQL will do well with simpler, less sophisticated data. Similarly, for simple queries or a small amount of them, MySQL will be the right choice, and PostgreSQL for complex queries and a significant amount of data. Referring to the example with cars – the MySQL is a sporty roadster that enjoys great performance and drives well, but in contrast to the minivan – the PostgreSQL – it will not accommodate five people for a vacation trip to the mountains.