Lesson 2 - PostgreSQL vs. Other Databases

PostgreSQL vs Other Databases

Below are the main differences between PostgreSQL and other popular database systems such as MySQL, MariaDB, SQLite, and Oracle. By understanding these differences, you will be able to make a more informed decision about which database management system is best suited to your needs.

PostgreSQL vs MySQL/MariaDB

MySQL and MariaDB, both are popular open-source relational database management systems (RDBMS). Here’s how PostgreSQL compares to them:

• Concurrency: PostgreSQL uses Multi-Version Concurrency Control (MVCC), which allows for improved performance in situations where multiple users or applications are accessing the database at the same time. MySQL and MariaDB use table-level locking features, which can be less efficient in highly contentious situations.

• Data Types: PostgreSQL supports a larger number of custom and advanced data types, including arrays, hstore (key-value store), and JSON. MySQL and MariaDB primarily handle basic data types such as numbers, strings, and dates.

• Query Optimization: PostgreSQL typically has a more complex query optimizer that can better utilize indexes and statistics, which can lead to better query performance.

• Extensions: PostgreSQL has a rich ecosystem of extensions that can be used to add functionality to the database system, such as PostGIS for spatial and geographic data. MySQL and MariaDB also have plugins, but the ecosystem may not be as extensive as Postgres.

PostgreSQL vs SQLite

• Scalability: SQLite is designed for small-scale applications and personal projects, while PostgreSQL is designed for enterprise-level applications and can handle large amounts of data and concurrent connections.

• Concurrency: As mentioned earlier, PostgreSQL uses MVCC for better concurrent access to the database. On the other hand, SQLite uses file-level locking features, which can lead to database lock issues in highly contentious situations.

• Features: PostgreSQL boasts a range of advanced features and data types, while SQLite offers a more limited feature set that has been optimized for simplicity and minimal resource usage.

PostgreSQL vs Oracle

Oracle is a proprietary, commercial RDBMS, offering many advanced features for large enterprises. Here’s how PostgreSQL compares to Oracle:

• Cost: PostgreSQL is open-source and free to use, while Oracle has high licensing costs that can be extremely expensive for smaller projects and businesses.

• Concurrency: Although both databases have good performance and can handle large amounts of data, Oracle has certain features and optimizations that can make this database more suitable for some specific, high-performance applications.

• Community: PostgreSQL has a large, active open-source community providing support, development, and extensions. Oracle, being a proprietary system, relies on the company’s development and support team, which may not provide the same level of openness and collaboration.

PostgreSQL vs NoSQL

Database Type

Example : PostgreSQL is often used for customer data management systems in banks, while MongoDB (a Document database) is suitable for storing and retrieving flexible JSON data for web applications.

Query Language Type

Example: PostgreSQL uses SQL for querying and managing data. MongoDB uses a JSON-based query syntax for data retrieval.

Flexibility

Example: PostgreSQL requires defining the table structure before inserting data, while MongoDB allows storing JSON data without needing to define a specific structure beforehand.

Data Integration

Example: PostgreSQL is suitable for handling complex financial transactions. MongoDB is often used in applications requiring flexibility and scalability.

Advantages

Example: PostgreSQL is reliable for banking systems. MongoDB is suitable for storing dynamic data from IoT devices.

Suitable Use Cases

Example: PostgreSQL is suitable for banking financial management systems. MongoDB is suitable for large social applications with non-uniform user data.