PostgreSQL vs MySQL: A Comparative Analysis in 2016

As a seasoned DBA with extensive experience working with MySQL, I've had the opportunity to explore other relational database management systems (RDBMS) like PostgreSQL. In this series of articles, I'll delve into the similarities and differences between these two technologies, providing an objective comparison for those interested in learning more about both.

MySQL, a popular open-source RDBMS, excels at handling standard, relational schemas and web-based workloads. It's well-suited for most online transactional processing (OLTP) workloads and some online analytical processing (OLAP) workloads as well. MySQL offers all the standard features one would expect from an RDBMS, including tables, views, foreign keys, stored procedures, and ACID compliance when using InnoDB.

PostgreSQL, on the other hand, is also a powerful open-source RDBMS that's gained popularity in recent years. While I've seen some implementations doing complex and non-trivial workloads, MySQL tends to shine with standard relational schemas and web-based workloads. However, PostgreSQL has its own strengths and is well-suited for certain use cases.

In this article, we'll explore the fundamental differences between PostgreSQL and MySQL, including their histories, features, and performance characteristics. We'll also examine the operational aspects of each technology, such as schema design, backup and recovery strategies, and tuning techniques.

As a DBA who's spent most of the last 15 years working with MySQL, I'm excited to explore PostgreSQL in an objective manner. While part of me wants to resist change and stick with what I know, I believe that understanding both technologies is essential for making informed decisions about which RDBMS is best suited for a particular project or use case.

In this series, we'll cover topics such as:

* The history and evolution of PostgreSQL and MySQL

* Key features and capabilities of each technology

* Performance characteristics and tuning techniques

* Schema design and data modeling strategies

* Backup and recovery procedures

* Operational aspects and best practices

By the end of this series, readers will have a deeper understanding of both PostgreSQL and MySQL, enabling them to make informed decisions about which technology is best suited for their specific needs. Whether you're already familiar with one or both technologies, I hope that this series will provide valuable insights and help you navigate the ever-evolving world of relational databases.

Postgresql vs mysql 2016