MySQL vs PostgreSQL

by Gralio Feb 27, 2025

MySQL and PostgreSQL are both popular open-source relational databases, but they cater to different needs. MySQL is known for its ease of use and speed with simple queries, while PostgreSQL excels in handling complex queries and large datasets with enhanced data integrity.

At Gralio.ai we help to simplify your decision-making process by offering detailed, side-by-side software comparisons like this one, to help you confidently choose the tool that aligns with your business goals.

This comparison was created by analysing 2623 reviews and 60 websites, saving 15 hours, 4 minutes of reading.

MySQL

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PostgreSQL

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About

MySQL is the world's most popular open-source relational database. It's a reliable and robust system used by companies of all sizes to store and manage data. MySQL offers a range of solutions from free downloads to enterprise-level packages with advanced features and support. Known for its flexibility and performance, MySQL is a popular choice for web applications, data analysis, and more.

PostgreSQL is a reliable, open-source database system businesses use to store and manage their data. Known for its reliability and performance, it's suitable for a wide range of needs, from single computers to large-scale data storage for multiple users. PostgreSQL is free to use and is backed by a large community of developers.

Summary

Main difference

MySQL is generally easier to use and quicker for simple queries, making it a good choice for smaller projects or those with basic database needs. PostgreSQL offers advanced features and better performance for complex queries and large datasets, making it suitable for demanding applications requiring high data integrity.

Relative strengths of MySQL (compared to PostgreSQL)

Easier to use and learn, especially for beginners.
Generally faster for simple queries.
Large and active community provides ample support.

Relative weaknesses of MySQL (compared to PostgreSQL)

Can be slower than PostgreSQL for complex queries and large datasets.
Limited advanced features compared to PostgreSQL.
Not as robust as PostgreSQL in terms of data integrity and concurrency.

What companies are using MySQL and PostgreSQL?

Toss Bank

The Boeing Company

Great HealthWorks

Brown University Entrepreneurship Program

Welcome

BSEF

WePay

guard.me International Insurance

University of Toronto

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Who should use MySQL VS. PostgreSQL

MySQL is a popular open-source database known for its ease of use and flexibility. Users appreciate its cost-effectiveness and strong community support, making it ideal for businesses of all sizes. However, some users have noted performance limitations with large datasets. Consider MySQL if you need a reliable and adaptable database solution.

PostgreSQL is a robust, open-source database solution ideal for businesses of all sizes needing reliable data management. Known for its performance and scalability, PostgreSQL excels at handling large datasets and complex queries. Users appreciate its open-source nature, ease of installation, and strong community support, while some find initial setup challenging. It's a great fit for companies prioritizing data integrity and cost-effectiveness.

Ideal for businesses of all sizes, from startups to large enterprises.
A versatile database suitable for various industries, especially e-commerce and online applications.

Ideal for small to large businesses seeking an open-source database.
Best fit for Software, IT & Telecommunications; suitable for E-commerce, Retail, Education, and public sector.

MySQL and PostgreSQL features

Supported

Partially supported

Not supported

Type in the name of the feature or in your own words tell us what you need

Object-relational database

Not supported

MySQL is a relational database, not an object-relational database.

Supported

PostgreSQL is an object-relational database management system (ORDBMS).
HeatWave

Supported

MySQL HeatWave is a separate service built upon MySQL Enterprise Edition.

Not supported

HeatWave is not supported by PostgreSQL.
MySQL Enterprise Edition

Supported

MySQL Enterprise Edition offers advanced features for scalability, security, reliability, and uptime.

Not supported

PostgreSQL does not offer the same advanced features as MySQL Enterprise Edition.
SQL support

Supported

MySQL uses SQL for querying and managing data.

Supported

PostgreSQL, as offered via EDB on AWS Marketplace, fully supports SQL querying.
PL/SQL support

Not supported

PL/SQL is not supported.

Not supported

PostgreSQL does not support PL/SQL for querying Oracle databases. It uses its own procedural language, PL/pgSQL.
Standard SQL support

Supported

MySQL supports standard SQL syntax with some extensions and variations.

Supported

PostgreSQL supports standard SQL syntax and implements many of the features required by the SQL standard.

Qualities

Value and Pricing Transparency

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Customer Service

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Ease of Use

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Reliability and Performance

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Ease of Implementation

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Scalability

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MySQL and PostgreSQL Pricing

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See full Pricing page

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We couldn't find a pricing page for PostgreSQL.

MySQL and PostgreSQL review insights

Users love

Open-source and free, offering cost savings.
Easy to use and implement for basic database operations.
Large and active community provides ample support.
Cross-platform compatibility ensures flexibility.

Open-source database
Easy to install and configure
Handles large datasets efficiently
Fast querying time
Strong community support

Users dislike

Slow performance with large datasets or complex operations.
Occasional localhost connection issues.
Limited advanced analytics and data warehousing capabilities.
Learning curve can be steep for advanced features.

Consumes somewhat higher CPU usage so that efficiency is a bit low
Initial setup is not straightforward.
Limited GUI tools.
PostgreSQL may have slower performance than other RDBMS like SQL Server and MySQL.

MySQL and PostgreSQL Ratings

Glassdoor

3.8/5

(55086)

Company health

Employee growth

5% increase in the last year

1% increase in the last year

Web traffic

7% decrease in the last quarter

2% decrease in the last quarter

Financing

May 1991 - $0

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How do MySQL's HeatWave capabilities compare to PostgreSQL for analytics?

MySQL HeatWave is an in-memory query accelerator that significantly boosts MySQL's analytical performance. While PostgreSQL offers solid analytical capabilities through extensions and optimizations, it doesn't have a directly comparable integrated in-memory accelerator like HeatWave. Therefore, for analytical workloads requiring very high performance, MySQL with HeatWave might be preferable. However, PostgreSQL's extensibility and mature ecosystem offer various tools and techniques for optimizing analytical queries, making it a strong contender depending on the specific needs and budget.

Which database, MySQL or PostgreSQL, offers better performance with large datasets?

PostgreSQL generally offers better performance with large datasets than MySQL. While MySQL is known for its speed and simplicity with smaller datasets, user reviews indicate it struggles with larger datasets and complex queries. Conversely, PostgreSQL is designed for scalability and complex queries, handling large datasets efficiently. PostgreSQL's architecture and features like advanced indexing and query optimization contribute to its superior performance in these scenarios.

What are the advantages of MySQL?

MySQL's advantages include its popularity and large community support, making it easy to find resources and assistance. It's known for ease of use, especially for basic database operations, and boasts cross-platform compatibility. MySQL also offers a free, open-source option, providing cost savings.

What are the disadvantages of MySQL?

MySQL can exhibit slow performance with large datasets or complex operations. Users occasionally report localhost connection issues. It has limited advanced analytics and data warehousing capabilities compared to other database solutions. Finally, while basic usage is straightforward, mastering advanced MySQL features can involve a steep learning curve.

Alternatives to MySQL and PostgreSQL

Microsoft SQL Server

Microsoft SQL Server is a database management system for businesses of all sizes. It helps you analyze various types of data and can be used in multiple environments, including on your servers and in the cloud. SQL Server offers high performance and strong security features. It allows developers to build applications using different programming languages and provides mobile business intelligence tools.

MariaDB

MariaDB is a popular, free alternative to traditional database software. Developed by the creators of MySQL, it's known for its strong performance, reliability, and open-source nature. MariaDB is highly adaptable, working well for both transaction-heavy tasks (like processing orders) and analyzing large datasets. It's commonly used by companies of all sizes and is a key part of many cloud computing services. Notably, MariaDB offers similar features as more expensive database products but without the high cost.

Google Cloud BigQuery

Google BigQuery is a fully managed data warehouse service that helps businesses analyze massive datasets to gain insights. It's serverless, so you don't need to manage any infrastructure, and it can handle data from various sources. BigQuery is designed for fast query processing, allowing you to quickly explore and analyze your data. It's a powerful tool for data-driven decision-making in any industry, regardless of company size.

MongoDB

MongoDB is a popular database that stores information in flexible documents instead of rigid tables. This makes it easy for developers to work with and allows for changes as your needs evolve. It's designed for modern applications and scales easily to handle large amounts of data. MongoDB is used by companies of all sizes and industries, particularly for managing customer data, online content, and real-time analytics.

MongoDB Atlas

MongoDB Atlas is a cloud-based database service that's easy for developers to use. It allows you to store information in flexible formats that are like digital filing cabinets. It's designed for businesses of all sizes and can handle various data needs. MongoDB Atlas is reliable, adapts to changes easily, and can grow with your company's needs by spreading information across multiple servers.

MongoDB

MongoDB is a flexible database management software designed for modern businesses. Unlike traditional systems that rely on rigid tables, MongoDB stores data as documents, similar to how we organize information in files. This makes it easier for developers to build applications and adapt to changing needs. MongoDB excels at handling large volumes of diverse data, making it suitable for various tasks like real-time analytics and managing online catalogs.

Page co-authored by

Michal Kaczor

CEO at Gralio

Michal has worked at startups for many years and writes about topics relating to software selection and IT management. As a former consultant for Bain, a business advisory company, he also knows how to understand needs of any business and find solutions to its problems.

Tymon Terlikiewicz

CTO at Gralio

Tymon is a seasoned CTO who loves finding the perfect tools for any task. He recently headed up the tech department at Batmaid, a well-known Swiss company, where he managed about 60 software purchases, including CX, HR, Payroll, Marketing automation and various developer tools.

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