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What is an ORM? - Definition & Meaning

Learn what an ORM (Object-Relational Mapper) is, how Prisma and TypeORM abstract database queries, and when ORM vs raw SQL fits.

An ORM (Object-Relational Mapper) is a tool that maps objects in code to tables in a relational database. Instead of raw SQL you write type-safe queries in the programming language. It speeds up development and reduces SQL errors.

What is What is an ORM? - Definition & Meaning?

An ORM (Object-Relational Mapper) is a tool that maps objects in code to tables in a relational database. Instead of raw SQL you write type-safe queries in the programming language. It speeds up development and reduces SQL errors.

How does What is an ORM? - Definition & Meaning work technically?

ORMs generate SQL from object APIs. Prisma (schema-first), TypeORM (decorators). Concepts: migrations, relations, query builder. Drawback: complex queries can be inefficient.

How does MG Software apply What is an ORM? - Definition & Meaning in practice?

MG Software uses Prisma for most projects: schema as code, automatic migrations, type-safe client. For complex reporting or performance-critical queries we use raw SQL or a query builder alongside Prisma.

What are some examples of What is an ORM? - Definition & Meaning?

  • A Prisma User model with relations to Order, automatically generated types for TypeScript.
  • A TypeORM entity with decorators defining a PostgreSQL table and handling relations.
  • An application using Prisma for CRUD and raw SQL for an optimized aggregation query.

Related terms

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Further reading

Knowledge BaseWhat is SQL? - Definition & MeaningWhat is PostgreSQL? - Definition & MeaningPostgreSQL vs MySQL: Which Database Should You Choose?Prisma vs Drizzle: Complete Comparison Guide

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Frequently asked questions

ORM for standard CRUD, type safety, and fast development. Raw SQL for complex joins, aggregations, or performance-critical queries where you need exact control.
When you fetch a list and load a relation separately for each item, N+1 queries result. ORMs solve this with eager loading or select/include. Pay attention when designing queries.
Both are valid. Prisma has a clearer schema and better DX; TypeORM is more flexible and supports more database-specific features. Choose based on project needs.

When do you choose ORM vs raw SQL?

ORM for standard CRUD, type safety, and fast development. Raw SQL for complex joins, aggregations, or performance-critical queries where you need exact control.

What is the N+1 problem?

When you fetch a list and load a relation separately for each item, N+1 queries result. ORMs solve this with eager loading or select/include. Pay attention when designing queries.

Is Prisma better than TypeORM?

Both are valid. Prisma has a clearer schema and better DX; TypeORM is more flexible and supports more database-specific features. Choose based on project needs.

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