With the growing use of digital technologies, organizations are often faced with the decision of choosing a database management system (DBMS) to manage their data. If you find yourself in this situation, there are two popular options you can consider. They are MySQL and MSSQL.
MySQL, developed by Oracle, is an open-source relational database management system (RDBMS). MSSQL, on the other hand, is a database management system (DBMS) created by Microsoft.
To choose between MySQL and MSSQL you may need to depend on various factors, such as:
- objectives of your organization
- data size
- feature requirements
- company budget
To make a good selection, it is important to explore and understand the features and benefits provided by each DBMS. Hence, we have written this blog that gives a detailed comparison between MySQL vs MSSQL.
Interested? Let’s dive in.
MySQL vs MSSQL
Source: Freepik
About MySQL
The most popular, MySQL stands at 2nd position among all databases and continues to be widely used today.
It is a widely known, open-source, relational database management system that has turned into a foundation of many current web applications and data-driven systems. Originally developed by a Swedish organization called MySQL AB, it is currently possessed and maintained by Oracle Corporation.
As an RDBMS, MySQL stores and manages information in a structured manner, enabling users to efficiently utilize and manage their data. It utilizes a structured query language (SQL) to interact with the database, offering a comprehensive set of commands for data development, modification, and querying.
About MSSQL
Microsoft Corporation created the industry-leading RDBMS MSSQL, also known as Microsoft SQL Server. It is a popular option for businesses and organizations all over the world because it is made to store, handle, and retrieve enormous volumes of data efficiently.
MSSQL, maintained by Microsoft provides a wide range of features and functionalities, to meet the demands of various applications and markets. It supports the structured query language (SQL) for connecting with the database, providing a reliable and standardized approach.
Scalability and performance are two of MSSQL’s most notable characteristics. It can easily support high-volume transactional systems and large-scale enterprise workloads.
Common Features: MySQL vs MSSQL
What is common in MySQL and MSSQL? Here are a few similarities between the two:
Tables
Both platforms use the standard relational database table format, with data organized in columns and rows.
Unmatched Scalability
Both systems have outstanding scalability to support your company’s growth. They are appropriate for small projects and can meet enterprise-level needs with ease, handling millions of transactions each day.
Language
Both MySQL and MSSQL use the Structured Query Language (SQL) as the main language for querying and modifying data. SQL statements, such as SELECT, INSERT, UPDATE, and DELETE, are used in both databases to carry out operations.
ACID Compliance
Both databases are designed to maintain ACID (Atomicity, Consistency, Isolation, Durability) properties, ensuring reliable and consistent data transactions. They provide mechanisms like transactions and locks to enforce data integrity and concurrency control.
Keys
Both databases use primary and foreign keys to build connections between tables.
Data Types
Similar data types like integer, decimal, text, date, and Boolean are supported by both MySQL and MSSQL. There might, however, be some variations in the supported data types and their size restrictions.
Indexing and Query Optimization
Both MySQL and MSSQL offer query optimizers and indexing algorithms to enhance the efficiency of queries by quickly accessing and obtaining information from the database.
Stored Procedures and Functions
Both MySQL and MSSQL allow the creation and execution of stored procedures and functions. These stored programs provide reusable code for performing complex tasks on the database server.
Replication and High Availability
Both databases allow replication features that enable the creation of redundant copies of the database in order to provide high availability and fault tolerance. This replication allows data to be synchronized across various database servers.
Client/Server Architecture
Both, MySQL and MSSQL databases have a client/server architecture in which users (applications) connect to the database server in order to access and modify data. In order to establish communication between clients and servers, they need network protocols (such as TCP/IP).
Common Features Summary
| Common Features | MySQL | MSSQL |
| Tables | Relational Database | Relational Database |
| Scalability | High | High |
| Language | SQL (Structured Query Language) | SQL (Structured Query Language) |
| ACID Compliance | Supported | Supported |
| Data Integrity | Enforced | Enforced |
| Common Data Types Supported | Numeric, String, Date and Time, Boolean, Binary, Enumerated | Numeric, String, Date and Time, Boolean, Binary, Enumerated |
| Indexing and Query Optimization | Offered | Offered |
| Stored Procedures, Triggers, Replication, High Availability | Supported | Supported |
Main Differences: MySQL vs MSSQL
While MySQL and MSSQL share many similarities, it’s important to note that there are also notable differences between the two databases in terms of features, performance, licensing, and platform compatibility. It’s recommended to consider these differences when choosing between MySQL vs MSSQL for a specific project or application.
Compatibility with Operating Systems
MSSQL Server supports RDBMS on Windows, Linux, and MacOS. This enables businesses to run the database system on three different platforms, though it may provide limited functions on MacOS X and Linux.
MySQL, on the other hand, performs well on common operating systems such as Linux, Windows, and MacOS X.
Language Support
MySQL and MSSQL both support several programming languages, including C++, Ruby, Java, Python, PHP, Visual Basic, Delphi, and Go. MySQL also supports other languages such as Perl, Eiffel, Haskell, and Tcl, making it popular across a wide range of developer groups.
Both databases may be used for Linux and Windows applications, although MySQL works well with PHP, whilst MSSQL Server is typically utilized with.NET. You should anticipate a smoother integration if you just use MySQL for PHP and MSSQL Server for Windows applications.
MyISAM and InnoDB
MySQL allows developers to choose between MyISAM and InnoDB setups, allowing them to execute a variety of programming and design tasks. MSSQL Server, on the other hand, does not allow you to choose alternative engines when establishing databases.
Cost
MySQL is an open-source database system, meaning it is available for free to users. However, you may be required to pay for support services. MSSQL, on the other hand, requires licensing for servers that operate the platform, making it a more expensive choice.
LINQ
You may configure entity foundation classes in .NET and use LINQ queries directly with MSSQL Server. In contrast, because. NET does not provide native support for LINQ, you would need to obtain third-party tools to utilize it with MySQL.
IDE Tools
Both MS SQL and MySQL have IDE tools, however, it is critical to utilize the correct tool for each server. Management Studio is used by MS SQL, while Workbench is provided by MySQL. These tools let users connect to the server and adjust security, architecture, and table design settings and customizations.
Please keep in mind that Management Studio is only compatible with Windows and does not support macOS X.
Binary Collections
MS SQL and MySQL both store data in 0s and 1s patterns, making them binary information systems. The database files in MySQL may be read and changed in real time, providing for seamless data administration.
In contrast, editing data in an MS SQL database necessitates the launch of SSMS (SQL Server Management Studio) and the start of an instance. Although this procedure requires more steps, it contributes to the DBMS’s increased security as compared to MySQL.
Backup
Data backup is critical for assuring data recovery in the event of a problem. MS SQL backups allow you to back up your database while it is still in use, reducing latency. MySQL, on the other hand, necessitates the execution of several SQL commands in order to back up data.
Control of Query Execution
MS SQL databases allow you to halt a SQL query early if necessary, giving you more control over query execution. In contrast, once a query is started on MySQL, it cannot be halted until it is finished.
MySQL and MSSQL Difference Summary
| Features | MySQL | MSSQL |
| Operating System Compatibility | Windows, and with limited functionality on macOS X and Linux | Windows, macOS X, Linux |
| Language Support | Java, PHP, C++, Python, Ruby, Visual Basic, Delphi, Go, and R.
Additional languages: Perl, Scheme, Tcl, Haskel and Eiffel. |
Java, PHP, C++, Python, Ruby, Visual Basic, Delphi, Go, and R. |
| Commonly used for | PHP language | .NET language |
| Cost | Free | Licensing required |
| LINQ | Third party tools needed | Directly available |
| IDE Tools | Workbench | Management Studio |
| Backup | Manual | Automatic |
| Control of Query Execution | Moderate | High |
MySQL vs MSSQL – which one should you buy?
The decision between MySQL and MSSQL is influenced by a number of factors, including your individual requirements, money, and current infrastructure.
MySQL is an outstanding open-source database management system with exceptional scalability and performance. It is best suited for web applications and small to medium-sized projects. MSSQL, on the other hand, is ideal for firms that have already invested in the Microsoft ecosystem since it connects effortlessly with other Microsoft products. It has extensive functionality and high-level security, making it ideal for enterprise-level applications and large-scale projects.
Finally, your selection should be based on your own needs and tastes. If you want to buy MySQL or MSSQL, we encourage you to reach out to our dedicated ZNetLive team. Our experienced professionals can provide valuable insights, offer comprehensive guidance, and assist you in making an informed choice that aligns with your unique requirements. ZNetLive provides them with Virtual Private Servers (VPS), Dedicated servers, Cloud Virtual Machines (VMs), and RDS. Furthermore, ZNetLive offers SQL Licenses as well. For more information, contact us directly or drop your query in the comments section.
