PostgreSQL vs MySQL (Which is better for Business Intelligence Reporting?)

When users think of an application, they rarely think about where and how the data they see on their screens is stored. However, storing your data most efficiently is a step developer shouldn’t overlook. While there’s often no right or wrong answer to which type of database you should choose for your application, different databases will give you different benefits and drawbacks.

In this article, we will go over two of the most popular databases on the internet: PostgreSQL and MySQL.

Both databases are free and open for anyone to use, but they have some key differences that could drive you one way or another. From the way data is stored and accessed to more detailed differences such as case sensitivity, both databases provide different advantages and disadvantages to the table.

What is PostgreSQL?

PostgreSQL, more commonly known as Postgres, is an open-source object-relational database management system free for all users. It has over 30 years of active development, and it is pretty popular amongst developers due to its reputation for reliability and performance.

An object-relational database (ORDBMS) is a database management system composed of relational and object-oriented databases. It contains both types of database characteristics, and it is often considered the “middleman” database. The data is stored in a traditional database, but the database system also considers the database as an object-store. Instead of seeing the data as tables and records, this type of database references the data as objects.

Postgres is known for handling complex queries and supporting massive databases. It also allows the user to define custom data types, index types, and functional languages. PostgreSQL also won the Database of the Year Award in 2018 due to its rising popularity.

Popular Postgres users include Apple, Etsy, Facebook, Redhat, Spotify, and Yahoo.

What is MySQL?

MySQL is considered the most popular database management system on the web. It is fast and easy to use, and it is highly scalable – meaning it can attend to the needs of both small and large applications.

A relational database (RDBMS) is a type of database that stores data in several tables. Users can then use these tables with other stored databases. Advantages of relational databases include the different relationships a record can have. One record can have a one-to-one relationship with another record, a many-to-one relationship with other records, or a many-to-many relationship between various objects.

Some main advantages of using MySQL include data security, complete workflow control, and high performance. Users with simple but read-heavy workflows often choose to work with MySQL due to its simple structure.

Popular MySQL users include Facebook, Google, Spotify, NASA, Uber, and Wikipedia.

Key Differences Between PostgreSQL and MySQL

The main difference between the two databases is how they perceive and store data. PostgreSQL is an object-relational database, and it stores the data in objects. MySQL, however, is a relational database, and it treats the stored data as simply standard records.

Due to PostgreSQL’s ability to see the records as objects, the database can support different data such as JSON and XML, whereas MySQL can only support JSON objects.

If your team has different types of computers, the databases’ operating systems can also be a factor to be considered. MySQL is supported by most operating systems, including Windows, Mac OX, Linux, BSD, UNIX, and AmigaOS. PostgreSQL, however, is not supported by UNIX, z/OS, Symbian, or AmigaOS.

Another key difference between the two databases is their ACID compliance. ACID compliance is the presence of four specific properties within a database that can ensure a transaction is correctly completed punctually. It consists of Atomicity, Consistency, Isolation, and Durability. While PostgreSQL is completely ACID-compliant, MySQL is only ACID-compliant when used with specific storage engines.

Performance is another key difference between the databases. MySQL is mostly used for web-based projects that rely mostly on read-only transactions, with straightforward transactions. PostgreSQL, however, is mostly used in large systems where the read/write speed is fundamental to the program.

Developers tend to choose PostgreSQL over MySQL when the time spent writing data is critical to the application. However, in read-only pages (such as Google searches), developers tend to pick MySQL due to its simplicity and velocity for reading data.

An interesting difference between both databases is the SQL compliance both databases hold. While PostgreSQL is largely SQL compliant, MySQL falls behind in that race. MySQL is only partially SQL compliant, missing a few features that SQL brings. For example, MySQL doesn’t support check constraint, whereas that is fully integrated within PostgreSQL.

What are the Licensing Differences Between PostgreSQL vs. MySQL

PostgreSQL and MySQL, two popular open-source database management systems, are licensed differently. PostgreSQL typically uses the PostgreSQL License, a permissive open-source license that allows users to modify and distribute the software freely. On the other hand, MySQL has a more complex licensing history. Originally, it was released under the GNU General Public License (GPL), which also grants users the freedom to modify and distribute the software.

However, MySQL now offers commercial licensing options in addition to the GPL. This means that while MySQL can still be used in open-source projects under the GPL, it is also possible to purchase a commercial license to use MySQL in closed-source or proprietary applications.

Ultimately, the key licensing difference between PostgreSQL and MySQL is that PostgreSQL is consistently licensed under the permissive PostgreSQL License, whereas MySQL offers options for both open-source and commercial licensing.

What is the Preferred Use Case for PostgreSQL vs MySQL

MySQL is a preferred option for managing read-only commands due to its efficiency in handling such operations. It is particularly advantageous when there is a need to frequently retrieve information without the requirement for concurrent read-write processes. However, MySQL may not be the ideal choice for scenarios that involve heavy concurrency, where simultaneous read and write operations are prevalent.

On the other hand, PostgreSQL is preferred for managing read-write operations, especially in cases where there is a need for handling large datasets and complex queries. Its advanced features and capabilities make it a robust choice for scenarios where simultaneous reads and writes are common. Additionally, PostgreSQL excels when dealing with complex data structures and is known to perform exceptionally well even with extensive and intricate queries.

It is worth noting, though, that while PostgreSQL exhibits notable strengths in read-write operations, it may not be the favored option for read-only operations. In such cases, where the emphasis lies on retrieving information rather than modifying it, other database systems may be more suitable.

Ultimately, the choice between MySQL and PostgreSQL depends on the specific requirements of the use case. MySQL is favored for read-only commands and limited concurrency, while PostgreSQL is preferred for read-write operations, managing large datasets, and handling complex queries.

PostgreSQL vs. MySQL Features that could affect business intelligence

Although both databases are good to use, some key differences can affect the overall developer experience. The three main areas of difference between MySQL and PostgreSQL are:

Case Sensitivity

One of the advantages of MySQL is its case insensitivity. You don’t need to capitalize your strings in the exact way they show in the database for MySQL to work. MySQL can recognize column names even though they’re not properly capitalized. However, PostgreSQL’s queries will fail if you don’t properly capitalize your columns. However, you can customize your PostgreSQL experience to provide case-insensitive operations.

Full-text search capabilities

When comparing the full-text search capabilities between PostgreSQL and MySQL, it can be noted that both databases support this functionality. However, PostgreSQL offers more robust and comprehensive full-text search capabilities right from the start. It includes features that allow for complex text search operations, providing advanced search functionalities out-of-the-box.

On the other hand, while MySQL does have support for full-text search, it may require additional configuration and the use of external engines such as InnoDB or MyISAM to fully utilize it. This indicates that some additional setup and configuration might be necessary in MySQL to achieve the same level of full-text search capabilities as offered by PostgreSQL.

Overall, PostgreSQL is recognized as having more powerful and flexible full-text search functionality that caters to complex search requirements, while MySQL’s capabilities in this area may require more effort and adjustment to reach a similar level.

Foreign Key contraints and triggers

Foreign key constraints and triggers in PostgreSQL and MySQL differ in terms of their advanced support, enforcement, and flexibility for complex data integrity and business rules.

PostgreSQL offers a more advanced support for foreign key constraints and triggers compared to MySQL. It provides a comprehensive set of features and functionality that make it a superior choice for applications that require intricate data integrity and business rules.

While MySQL also supports foreign key constraints and triggers, it has historically been less strict in enforcing them. This means that MySQL may not always ensure that foreign keys are properly enforced and maintained, potentially leading to inconsistencies in the data.

Moreover, PostgreSQL’s approach to foreign key constraints and triggers is more rigorous and stringent, ensuring that data integrity is maintained at all times. It enforces foreign key relationships and triggers at a granular level, allowing for precise control over the data and preventing any inconsistencies or violations.

Additionally, PostgreSQL offers greater flexibility in defining complex business rules through its advanced support for triggers. Triggers in PostgreSQL allow for the execution of customized actions based on certain database events, enabling developers to implement intricate business logic and maintain consistency in the data.

On the other hand, MySQL also supports triggers but may be more limited in terms of functionality and flexibility. Its trigger system may not offer the same level of complexity and customization as PostgreSQL, potentially restricting developers when implementing complex business rules.

In summary, while both PostgreSQL and MySQL support foreign key constraints and triggers, PostgreSQL provides more advanced support, stricter enforcement, and greater flexibility for complex data integrity and business rules. It is the preferred choice for applications that require a high level of control and precision in maintaining data consistency.

Default character sets and strings

While PostgreSQL lacks default case-insensitivity, it makes up with the default character sets. With PostgreSQL, you don’t need to convert character sets and strings to UTF-8. UTF-8 is one of the most common types of encoding used for electronic communication, encoding all characters with one to four 8-bit code units. MySQL, however, requires you to convert your character sets and strings to UTF-8 manually. UTF-8 is comfortably enclosed on characters found in the English alphabet, so if you store data that doesn’t follow the English characters, you might suffer from data loss. This can be a drawback if you take a step outside of the English-only character sets.

IF and IFNULL versus CASE statements

MySQL relishes in being a simple and methodic RDBMS, so it’s not a surprise when users can write simple queries. It is common for developers to use IF and IFNULL statements on a query to check for conditionals in the data. An IFNULL function returns a specified value if the expression is NULL and another value if the expression is NOT NULL.

However, PostgreSQL doesn’t support those expressions. To perform a similar transaction in PostgreSQL, you’d have to use a CASE statement. The CASE statement works as an IF/ELSE statement in programming languages, with each condition within the CASE statement being a boolean expression.

Replication and High Availability Options

Both PostgreSQL and MySQL offer options for replication and high availability, with slight differences in their approaches. PostgreSQL provides built-in support for synchronous replication, which simplifies achieving high availability and data redundancy. This means that when data is written to the primary server, it is automatically and synchronously replicated to one or more standby servers, ensuring that data is consistently available across multiple instances. This synchronous replication ensures that any changes made to the primary server are immediately propagated to the standby servers, minimizing any potential data loss in the event of a failure.

On the other hand, MySQL offers different replication methods, including master-slave replication. This approach involves designating one server as the master, which handles all write operations, and one or more slave servers that replicate data from the master. Slave servers in MySQL rely on asynchronous replication, meaning that changes made on the master are propagated to the slaves with some delay, introducing a potential for data inconsistency in case of failures.

While both PostgreSQL and MySQL provide replication solutions, it is worth noting that MySQL’s clustering solutions may require the use of third-party tools, whereas PostgreSQL’s synchronous replication is built-in and readily available. Therefore, if high availability and data redundancy are key requirements, PostgreSQL’s built-in synchronous replication makes it a more convenient choice, while MySQL’s master-slave replication can still be utilized for replication needs with some trade-offs in terms of data consistency.

User Support with PostgreSQL vs. MySQL

MySQL and PostgreSQL, both popular open-source databases, offer different levels of user support. MySQL has a vast and active volunteer community that provides free support and recommendations. The primary avenue to seek support for MySQL is the official MySQL website, where users can access forums and resources to find solutions to common issues. G2Crowd reviews highlight the abundance of free community support available for MySQL, thanks to the willingness of users to help each other. Additionally, for users who require immediate assistance, Oracle offers paid support services.

On the other hand, PostgreSQL also has a sizable community of volunteers who offer free advice to users. These volunteers can be found on Internet Relay Chat (IRC) channels and various mailing lists. While there is no official paid support directly from the PostgreSQL project, users have the option to purchase commercial support from third-party providers. Furthermore, PostgreSQL provides comprehensive documentation, including manuals and books, which users can access to find answers to their queries.

In comparing the user support experiences between MySQL and PostgreSQL, it is worth noting that some G2Crowd reviewers mention that the MySQL community forums tend to be more responsive than their PostgreSQL counterparts. However, it is important to consider that PostgreSQL issues can be more intricate and may require deeper knowledge to resolve. This complexity could potentially contribute to the perception that obtaining the desired PostgreSQL answers may be comparatively more challenging.

How Yurbi Can Help with Your PostgreSQL vs. MySQL Concerns

Whether you need PostgreSQL, MySQL, or both for your business, you need a useful tool that would help you leverage and build easy reporting and dashboard methods as your company grows. That’s where we come in, the business intelligence platform: Yurbi.

Yurbi is a tool that would make embedded analytics and business intelligence reporting a breeze, without all the hassles and problems programmers usually experience while looking for a suitable white-label, embedded analytics solution.

For one, Yurbi provides native support for PostgreSQL Drivers and MySQL Drivers. We offer PostgreSQL as an embedded database option for Yurbi. And this includes support for many of the Amazon Web Service offerings of MySQL and PostgreSQL, including RDS. Plus, we have a team that knows both platforms very well.

With Yurbi, they just need to choose which database to use and Yurbi will do the rest in terms of creating multi-tenant secured codeless reports and interactive dashboards.

In addition, Yurbi is much more affordable than most of the competition, but it does not scrimp in terms of quality and performance.

Reach Out to Us

Now that you know what Yurbi is, we think it’s time to show how Yurbi works. We prefer to show it to you, either through a meeting with us or, much better, a live demo with our team of experts.

Don’t worry, and we won’t put you through a high-pressured sales call. As a small business, we want to make sure we’re a good fit for your requirements, just as you want to pick the best product for your team.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some of the common questions asked about PostgreSQL vs MySQL

What are the specific strengths of PostgreSQL?

PostgreSQL performs well in scenarios where complex queries and analytical workloads are required. It excels in handling advanced SQL features.

What are the specific strengths of MySQL?

MySQL is favored for its performance in read-heavy workloads, making it suitable for web applications and websites.

Why do developers choose PostgreSQL over MySQL?

Developers tend to choose PostgreSQL over MySQL when the time spent writing data is critical to the application.

In what scenarios does PostgreSQL perform well?

PostgreSQL’s architecture is better suited for complex queries and analytical workloads. It performs well in scenarios where advanced SQL features are required.

What types of workloads are MySQL historically favored for?

MySQL has historically been favored for read-heavy workloads, making it a popular choice for web applications and websites.

Does MySQL offer spatial extensions for GIS data?

No, MySQL does not offer spatial extensions for GIS data.

What are the specific licensing options for PostgreSQL and MySQL?

PostgreSQL generally uses the PostgreSQL License, while MySQL was historically under the GNU General Public License (GPL) but now offers commercial licensing options as well.

How do PostgreSQL and MySQL differ in terms of foreign key constraints and triggers?

PostgreSQL has more advanced support for foreign key constraints and triggers, making it suitable for applications requiring complex data integrity and business rules. MySQL also supports these features but has been historically less strict in enforcing them.

What are the specific full-text search capabilities of PostgreSQL and MySQL?

PostgreSQL includes robust full-text search capabilities out-of-the-box, allowing for complex text search operations. MySQL also supports full-text search, but it may require additional configuration and external engines.

What are the specific replication methods and high availability features provided by PostgreSQL and MySQL?

MySQL provides various replication methods, including master-slave replication. PostgreSQL offers built-in synchronous replication for easier high availability and data redundancy.

How do the performance characteristics of PostgreSQL and MySQL differ?

MySQL has historically been favored for read-heavy workloads, making it popular for web applications. On the other hand, PostgreSQL’s architecture is better suited for complex queries and analytical workloads, performing well in scenarios requiring advanced SQL features.

How does the SQL compliance of PostgreSQL and MySQL differ?

PostgreSQL is known for its high level of SQL standards compliance, adhering closely to SQL standards. MySQL historically had deviations from strict SQL standards, but it has improved its compliance in newer versions.

What are the specific data types supported by PostgreSQL and MySQL?

PostgreSQL has a more extensive set of built-in data types, including support for arrays, hstore, JSON, and geometric types. MySQL has a more limited set of data types but offers spatial extensions for GIS data.

What operating systems are supported by MySQL?

MySQL is supported on Microsoft Windows, macOS, Linux (General/Generic), Ubuntu, Debian, SUSE Linux Enterprise Server & OpenSuSE, Red Hat Enterprises, CentOS, Fedora, Scientific, Oracle Solaris, Fedora (also part of the Red Hat family), and BSD (FreeBSD, OpenBSD).

What operating systems are supported by PostgreSQL?

PostgreSQL is supported on Microsoft Windows, macOS, Linux (General/Generic), Ubuntu, Debian, SUSE Linux Enterprise Server & OpenSuSE, Red Hat Enterprises, CentOS, Fedora, Scientific, Oracle Solaris, Fedora (also part of the Red Hat family), and BSD (FreeBSD, OpenBSD).

What specific advantages does PostgreSQL have in terms of performance?

PostgreSQL excels in handling massive data sets, complicated queries, and read-write operations, making it faster in scenarios where these factors are critical. On the other hand, MySQL is faster with read-only commands, making it preferable for scenarios where read-only operations are predominant.

Which database provides more complete support for stored procedures?

PostgreSQL provides more complete support for stored procedures compared to MySQL. While both databases support stored procedures, PostgreSQL offers a more robust and versatile language called PL/pgSQL, which allows users to develop stored procedures that fit their unique use cases more creatively.

Which database has better performance optimization features on UNIX-based systems?

PostgreSQL is famous for its performance optimization features on UNIX-based systems. It offers various optimization techniques that can enhance the performance of the database on UNIX platforms.

Which database has a more efficient backup and recovery tool?

PostgreSQL is known for its high level of efficiency in terms of backup and recovery. The backup and recovery tool that comes with PostgreSQL is widely recognized for its effectiveness and reliability.