Should I use MySQL or PostgreSQL for a new project?

For new projects, we generally recommend PostgreSQL due to its advanced features and better standards compliance. However, MySQL remains an excellent choice for specific requirements like existing infrastructure, PlanetScale deployments, or simpler workloads.

Is MySQL free to use?

MySQL Community Edition is free and open-source under the GPL license. Oracle also offers MySQL Enterprise Edition with commercial licensing for additional features and support.

What about PlanetScale for MySQL?

PlanetScale offers serverless MySQL with excellent developer experience, including database branching and non-blocking schema changes. It's our recommended option when MySQL is specifically required.

MySQL vs MariaDB - what's the difference?

MariaDB is a MySQL-compatible fork that's fully open-source. Both work similarly and share most features. MariaDB adds some extra features while MySQL has Oracle's backing.

Can I migrate from MySQL to PostgreSQL?

Yes, migration is possible but requires planning. Schema conversion, query adjustments, and data migration need careful handling. We can help assess and execute MySQL to PostgreSQL migrations.

Database Technology

MySQL Development

The World's Most Popular Open Source Database

MySQL has powered web applications for over 25 years, serving as the reliable backbone for countless websites and applications. We help maintain, optimize, and modernize MySQL systems while leveraging modern platforms like PlanetScale.

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What is MySQL?

MySQL is the world's most popular open-source relational database management system. Originally created by MySQL AB and now owned by Oracle, MySQL has been a cornerstone of web development for over 25 years, particularly as the "M" in the classic LAMP stack.

Known for its reliability, ease of use, and widespread adoption, MySQL continues to power millions of applications. While we recommend PostgreSQL for most new projects, MySQL remains the right choice for existing systems, PHP applications, and when using modern platforms like PlanetScale.

Perfect For

Maintaining and modernizing existing MySQL systems
WordPress and PHP-based applications
Read-heavy workloads with simple queries
Applications with existing MySQL infrastructure
PlanetScale serverless MySQL deployments
Cost-effective database hosting needs

Consider Alternatives

New projects without MySQL requirements (use PostgreSQL)
Complex queries requiring advanced features
Applications needing advanced JSON support
Projects requiring strict standards compliance

Key Features

What makes MySQL a proven choice for web applications

InnoDB Storage Engine

ACID-compliant storage with row-level locking for high-concurrency applications and reliable transactions.

Replication

Built-in master-slave and group replication for high availability and read scaling across multiple servers.

Performance Schema

Comprehensive monitoring and diagnostics to understand query performance and optimize database operations.

JSON Support

Native JSON data type and functions for storing and querying semi-structured data alongside relational data.

Window Functions

Advanced analytical queries with MySQL 8.0+ window functions for complex data analysis and reporting.

Full-Text Search

Built-in search capabilities for text-heavy applications without requiring external search infrastructure.

Popular Tech Stacks

MySQL integrates well in these established combinations

PHP Stack

Classic PHP full-stack with Laravel framework

LaravelMySQLRedis

Serverless MySQL

Modern serverless MySQL with branching workflows

Next.jsPlanetScalePrisma

Node Backend

JavaScript backend with mature ORM support

Node.jsSequelizeMySQL

Our MySQL Expertise

When We Use MySQL

Existing MySQL databases that need optimization
Client infrastructure specifically requires MySQL
PlanetScale for modern serverless MySQL
PHP/Laravel applications with MySQL requirements

When We Recommend PostgreSQL

All new projects without specific MySQL needs
Applications requiring advanced features
Projects with significant JSON storage needs
Better default for most use cases

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Technologies

PostgreSQLRecommended alternative PlanetScaleServerless MySQL platform RedisCaching layer Node.jsBackend runtime

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Whether you're optimizing existing MySQL systems or evaluating database options for a new project, we can help you make the right choice.

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