PostgreSQL vs MySQL: Which Database Should You Choose?
The database you choose determines how your app scales. PostgreSQL and MySQL compared on advanced features, performance, and extensibility.
PostgreSQL is the more powerful and versatile database for modern applications. MySQL is simpler to set up and more broadly supported by traditional hosting providers. For new projects, PostgreSQL is increasingly the industry-standard choice.
Background
The database landscape has shifted significantly in recent years. PostgreSQL adoption has surged thanks to managed platforms like Supabase, Neon, and Railway that eliminate operational complexity. Meanwhile, MySQL continues to power a massive share of existing web applications through PlanetScale and traditional hosting providers.
PostgreSQL
An advanced open-source relational database with extensive support for complex queries, JSON, extensions, and full ACID compliance.
MySQL
The most popular open-source relational database in the world, known for simplicity, read performance, and broad hosting support.
What are the key differences between PostgreSQL and MySQL?
| Feature | PostgreSQL | MySQL |
|---|---|---|
| Advanced features | Extensive - JSONB, window functions, CTEs, full-text search | More limited - focus on simplicity and speed |
| Read performance | Excellent, especially for complex queries | Very fast for simple read operations |
| Write performance | MVCC ensures good concurrency | Good, but lock contention under high concurrency |
| Hosting availability | Broadly supported - Supabase, Neon, AWS RDS | Available everywhere - every hosting provider |
| Extensions | Rich extension system - PostGIS, pgvector, TimescaleDB | Limited extension system |
When to choose which?
Choose PostgreSQL when...
Choose PostgreSQL for new projects requiring advanced features like JSONB for flexible document storage, PostGIS for geospatial queries, or pgvector for AI embedding searches. PostgreSQL pairs exceptionally well with Supabase for real-time subscriptions and Row Level Security in multi-tenant architectures.
What is the verdict on PostgreSQL vs MySQL?
PostgreSQL is the more powerful and versatile database for modern applications. MySQL is simpler to set up and more broadly supported by traditional hosting providers. For new projects, PostgreSQL is increasingly the industry-standard choice.
Which option does MG Software recommend?
MG Software defaults to PostgreSQL, particularly in combination with Supabase. The advanced features, extensibility, and reliability make it the ideal choice for modern web applications. We only recommend MySQL when integration with existing systems requires it.
Frequently asked questions
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