PostgreSQL® vs. MySQL™: 10 key differences and how to choose

What Is PostgreSQL?

PostgreSQL is an open source relational database management system (RDBMS) that emphasizes extensibility and compliance with SQL standards. It is used for storing, retrieving, and managing data in various applications, from web-based services to analytics operations. PostgreSQL’s architecture supports complex queries, making it suitable for tasks requiring data processing capabilities.

PostgreSQL supports a wide range of data types and features such as custom functions and user-defined data types. This flexibility makes it a preferred choice for developers who need a customizable database system. Additionally, PostgreSQL’s adherence to standards ensures broad compatibility with other database systems and tools.

History of PostgreSQL

PostgreSQL’s origins date back to 1986, beginning as a project called POSTGRES at the University of California, Berkeley. The project was led by Professor Michael Stonebraker, who aimed to improve database management systems by incorporating new ideas in database languages and systems architecture. Over time, POSTGRES evolved into a highly regarded open source database system by focusing on extensibility and adherence to standards.

The transformation to PostgreSQL occurred in 1996, when it incorporated SQL capabilities, significantly enhancing its usability and functionality. As an open source project, it benefitted from continuous contributions from a global community, leading to numerous updates and improvements. Today, PostgreSQL is renowned for features such as granular access controls and complex queries.

What Is MySQL?

MySQL is a widely-utilized open source relational database management system known for its speed and reliability. It serves as the backbone for numerous web applications, e-commerce platforms, and other data management purposes. MySQL’s architecture is designed for efficient data storage and retrieval, making it popular for dynamic websites and applications needing high-performance databases.

MySQL offers a straightforward user experience with a focus on ease of use and deployment. It supports various storage engines, allowing users to tailor their databases to specific needs regarding performance and scalability. Additionally, MySQL is compatible with a host of programming environments, facilitating integration into diverse technological ecosystems.

History of MySQL

MySQL was developed in 1995 by Michael Widenius, David Axmark, and Allan Larsson of the Swedish company MySQL AB. Initially designed to offer fast and efficient data management, it quickly gained popularity due to its openness and performance capabilities. The developers sought to create a database system that was user-friendly yet powerful enough to handle sizable data loads and complex queries.

In 2008, Sun Microsystems acquired MySQL AB, signaling the database system’s growing importance in the tech industry. Oracle Corporation later acquired Sun Microsystems in 2010, further integrating MySQL into its suite of database offerings. Despite these transitions, MySQL has maintained its reputation as a reliable, flexible, and scalable database system widely used across different sectors.

Tips from the expert

Sharath Punreddy

Solution Architect

Sharath Punreddy is a Solutions Enginee with extensive experience in cloud engineering and a proven track record in optimizing infrastructure for enterprise clients

In my experience, here are tips that can help you better navigate the choice between PostgreSQL and MySQL:

Leverage PostgreSQL’s advanced indexing options
Use PostgreSQL’s advanced indexing options like GIN, GiST, and BRIN for performance boosts in specific query patterns, such as full-text search, geometric data, and time-series data. Tailoring indexes to your workload can significantly improve query performance.
Utilize PostgreSQL’s JSONB for NoSQL-like functionality
If your application requires a mix of structured and unstructured data, PostgreSQL’s JSONB data type provides NoSQL-like capabilities within a relational database, allowing for efficient storage, indexing, and querying of JSON data.
Take advantage of PostgreSQL’s partitioning for large datasets
For handling very large tables, PostgreSQL’s table partitioning can significantly improve performance by dividing a table into smaller, more manageable pieces. This can optimize query performance, data loading, and archiving processes.

PostgreSQL vs. MySQL: The key differences

1. Database type

PostgreSQL is an object-relational database management system, allowing for the creation of complex data structures. This flexibility supports customizations through data types, functions, and operators. The object-relational model enables PostgreSQL to handle intricate queries and complex data relationships efficiently.

MySQL is a purely relational database system, focusing on straightforward data retrieval and manipulation. It emphasizes simplicity and speed, beneficial for high-read environments where extensive querying and simple transaction processing are essential.

2. Syntax

PostgreSQL offers a rich set of SQL functions, adhering closely to SQL standards while incorporating additional features. It supports complex joins, subqueries, and set operations, providing developers with querying capabilities. Developers appreciate PostgreSQL’s strict compliance with standards, ensuring long-term compatibility.

MySQL’s syntax is streamlined for fast execution, with an emphasis on practicality and ease of writing queries. It provides basic SQL functionality but with certain MySQL-specific extensions that enhance performance in particular scenarios. However, these extensions may deviate from SQL standards, potentially complicating migration or integration with other databases.

3. Indexes

PostgreSQL supports a variety of index types, including B-tree, hash, GiST, GIN, and SP-GiST indexes, allowing for better performance optimization tailored to specific query patterns. This flexibility in index selection helps improve data retrieval speeds and optimizes resource usage.

MySQL primarily offers B-tree indexing and hash indexing, which are suitable for simple and fast data retrieval operations. While these indexing options provide the necessary performance for many applications, the lack of advanced indexing structures can limit its efficiency in handling complex queries.

4. ACID compliance

PostgreSQL is known for full ACID compliance, ensuring reliable transaction processing even under concurrency and failure scenarios. Its multi-version concurrency control (MVCC) mechanism handles transactional workloads efficiently while maintaining data integrity.

MySQL’s ACID compliance depends on the storage engine in use. While the InnoDB storage engine supports transactions with full ACID compliance, other engines like MyISAM do not. This variability can affect transaction safety and data integrity, necessitating careful configuration to ensure desired compliance levels.

5. Stored procedures

PostgreSQL supports stored procedures written in several languages, including PL/pgSQL and PL/Python, providing flexibility for complex logic implementations. These procedures enable developers to encapsulate business logic within the database, reducing the need for repetitive code.

MySQL supports stored procedures with SQL-based logic, allowing encapsulation of reusable code blocks within the database. While functional, it has limited support for external programming languages, constraining complex logic implementations.

6. Triggers

In PostgreSQL, triggers activate procedural code in response to specific data changes, such as inserts, updates, or deletes. This feature ensures dynamic and automated data integrity checks. The trigger system supports before and after event actions, providing comprehensive data control mechanisms.

MySQL also offers trigger support, allowing execution of code in response to specific events within the database. However, it supports only row-level triggers, limiting its flexibility compared to PostgreSQL.

7. Performance

In terms of performance, PostgreSQL excels in handling complex queries and large datasets due to its indexing and query optimization techniques. Its performance benefits arise from capabilities like aggregation and parallel query execution.

MySQL prioritizes speed and ease of setup, suitable for scenarios where rapid read performance is critical. It performs exceptionally well in high-read, low-complexity environments such as web applications and content management systems.

8. User support

PostgreSQL has a committed community offering support through forums, documentation, and user-contributed extensions. This ecosystem supports an array of community-driven enhancements, ensuring PostgreSQL remains relevant and updated. Several companies provide commercial support services for PostgreSQL databases.

MySQL benefits from a comprehensive support structure, aided by Oracle’s backing and a vibrant community. It offers dual support paths: community-driven and commercial support options, providing users with flexible choices depending on their needs.

Related content: Read our guide to Postgres support

9. Security

PostgreSQL supports role-based access control (RBAC), strong authentication methods, and SSL encryption for connections. It emphasizes access control through configuration files like pg_hba.conf, allowing precise definition of which hosts and users can access the database. Other security measures include hash-based encryption for sensitive data, disabling trust authentication, and limiting network exposure by restricting remote logins and port access.

MySQL requires additional configuration to harden it properly. It supports ACID compliance and secure communication via SSL, although MySQL’s security defaults may leave it more vulnerable compared to PostgreSQL. Key practices include removing default test databases and anonymous accounts, changing default ports, and disabling remote root access. MySQL allows limiting user access and restricting the use of commands like LOAD DATA LOCAL INFILE to prevent exploits like SQL injection.

10. Supported programming languages

PostgreSQL has broad support for multiple languages, including less common languages like Tcl, Perl, and JavaScript. Additionally, PostgreSQL is known for its extensibility, allowing developers to define custom functions using languages like PL/pgSQL, PL/Python, and PL/Tcl, making it flexible for various use cases.

MySQL also supports popular programming languages like C/C++, Java, Python, PHP, Ruby, and Go. However, MySQL tends to have narrower usage, often favored in environments where simplicity and speed are prioritized over extensive customization options. MySQL’s support for stored procedures is more limited.

MySQL vs. PostgreSQL: How to choose?

When deciding between MySQL and PostgreSQL, several factors should be evaluated:

Project requirements: The complexity and demands of your project should guide your choice. PostgreSQL is better suited for applications that involve complex data relationships, advanced queries, and the need for custom data types. MySQL is favored for simpler applications like web platforms and e-commerce sites where speed and ease of use are more critical.
Operational efficiency: The performance characteristics of each database are essential to consider based on your workload. PostgreSQL is ideal for handling intricate queries and large datasets due to its indexing and query optimization features. MySQL is optimized for environments where quick read operations and straightforward queries are predominant.
Configuration and customization: PostgreSQL offers configurability, making it suitable for applications requiring precise database tuning and adherence to SQL standards. MySQL is known for its simplicity and ease of deployment, often chosen by teams looking for a database that’s quick to set up and manage with minimal overhead.
Transaction integrity: For applications where maintaining data consistency and reliability under high transaction loads is crucial, PostgreSQL’s commitment to ACID principles across all configurations provides a solid foundation. MySQL can also support these needs, particularly with the InnoDB storage engine, but it requires careful consideration of the storage engine to ensure consistent ACID compliance.
Development compatibility: The development environment and the team’s expertise play a significant role in choosing the right database. PostgreSQL’s support for multiple programming languages and procedural extensions might be appealing for projects needing advanced logic within the database. MySQL’s widespread adoption and the availability of community resources make it an easier choice for many developers.
Support and ecosystem: Both PostgreSQL and MySQL have strong support networks, but their focus differs. PostgreSQL benefits from a vibrant open source community that continuously contributes to its development. MySQL, backed by Oracle, offers both community-driven support and commercial options, providing a broader range of support services for businesses that may require professional assistance

The benefits of Instaclustr for PostgreSQL databases

Instaclustr offers a host of benefits specifically tailored for PostgreSQL databases, making it an ideal solution for organizations seeking efficient and reliable management of their PostgreSQL deployments. With its managed services approach, Instaclustr simplifies the deployment, configuration, and maintenance of PostgreSQL databases, freeing up valuable resources and enabling businesses to focus on their core applications and data-driven insights.

Some of the benefits of Instaclustr for PostgreSQL include:

Comprehensive managed services infrastructure management, provisioning, configuration, and security, ensuring that organizations can leverage the power of this robust relational database management system without the complexities of managing it internally. By offloading these operational tasks to Instaclustr, organizations can reduce the burden on their internal teams and ensure that their PostgreSQL databases are managed effectively and securely.
Automated scaling capabilities, enabling PostgreSQL to seamlessly handle increasing workloads by adding or removing resources as needed. This ensures that applications relying on PostgreSQL can accommodate spikes in traffic and scale to meet future growth demands. Instaclustr’s platform actively monitors the health of the database cluster, automatically handling scaling processes to ensure optimal resource utilization and cost efficiency.
High availability and fault tolerance for PostgreSQL databases. By employing replication and failover mechanisms, Instaclustr ensures that data is stored redundantly across multiple nodes in the cluster, providing resilience against hardware failures and enabling continuous availability of data. Instaclustr’s platform actively monitors the health of the database cluster and automatically handles failover and recovery processes, minimizing downtime and maximizing data availability for PostgreSQL deployments.

Furthermore, Instaclustr’s expertise and support are invaluable for PostgreSQL databases. Our team of experts has deep knowledge and experience in managing and optimizing PostgreSQL deployments. We stay up-to-date with the latest advancements in PostgreSQL technologies, ensuring that the platform is compatible with the latest versions and providing customers with access to the latest features and improvements. Instaclustr’s 24/7 support ensures that organizations have the assistance they need to address any PostgreSQL-related challenges promptly.

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