MySQL versus PostgreSQL

A DBA can go a long way to find a balanced discussion on the merits of these two popular open source databases. Here's a good start:

• PostgreSQL vs MySQL: Which is better?
  (Article by Ian Gilfillan at Database Journal)

And here's my personal 3-point QuickSummary™:

• MySQL:
  
  • Native Windows version^[*]
  • Large base of compatible applications and software
  • Easy to get running
• PostgreSQL:
  
  • Fast yet with an incredible feature set
  • Excellent data integrity (vital for serious database work!)
  • Very, very stable and reliable

^[*]Beginning with Version 8.0, PostgreSQL provides native Windows support (for 32 bit Windows such as Windows 2000 and XP only).

"Evil Magic" has an interesting real-world comparision of sequence handling in MySQL and PostgreSQL which demonstrates the difference in design philosophy between the two databases:

• MySQL & Sequences

See also: MySQL Links: Reviews and Comparisions

Keywords: MySQL, PostgreSQL, MySQL vs PostgreSQL