MySQL vs MariaDB vs PostgreSQL
Discover which database management system is right for your project. Compare features, performance, and use cases of the three most popular open-source databases.
MySQL excels in web applications with high read workloads and simple queries.
MariaDB offers enhanced MySQL compatibility with better performance and modern features.
PostgreSQL dominates complex applications requiring advanced SQL features and data integrity.
💡 Quick Decision Guide:
Choose based on your complexity needs, not just popularity.
Since 1995
The world's most popular open-source database, powering major web applications and known for its reliability and ease of use.
Since 2009
A MySQL fork created by MySQL's original developers, offering enhanced performance and additional features while maintaining compatibility.
Since 1996
An advanced object-relational database known for its robustness, advanced features, and strict adherence to SQL standards.
Choosing the right database is crucial for your application's success. Each of these databases has evolved to serve different needs, from simple web applications to complex enterprise systems. Understanding their strengths and limitations will help you make an informed decision that could save thousands of hours and dollars in the long run.
This comparison covers real-world scenarios, performance benchmarks, and practical considerations that matter most to developers and system architects in 2025.
| Feature | MySQL | MariaDB | PostgreSQL |
|---|---|---|---|
| ACID Compliance | |||
| JSON Support | |||
| Window Functions | |||
| Full Text Search | |||
| Custom Data Types | |||
| Partitioning |
MariaDB consistently outperforms MySQL in read-heavy workloads due to optimized query execution and better storage engines. PostgreSQL excels in write-intensive scenarios with superior transaction handling.
MySQL uses the least memory for simple operations, while PostgreSQL's advanced features require more resources but deliver superior functionality for complex applications.
Best choice when you need proven reliability, extensive community support, and straightforward implementation.
Ideal when you want MySQL compatibility with enhanced performance and modern features.
The go-to choice for applications requiring advanced SQL features, data integrity, and extensibility.
Choose your database based on project requirements
How complex are your queries and data relationships?
What are your speed and throughput requirements?
What's your team's experience level with databases?
Market Share
MySQL dominates the database market with the largest adoption rate globally
Faster Performance
MariaDB shows up to 25% better performance than MySQL in many benchmarks
Developer Choice
PostgreSQL rated as most loved database by developers in Stack Overflow surveys
Fortune 500
Of Fortune 500 companies use at least one of these three databases
Data Types
PostgreSQL supports over 30 built-in data types plus custom types
Cloud Growth
Database-as-a-Service adoption has grown 3x in the past 2 years
MySQL was named after co-founder Michael Widenius's daughter "My"
MariaDB is named after Michael Widenius's younger daughter "Maria"
PostgreSQL originated from the University of California, Berkeley in the 1980s
MySQL's mascot is a dolphin named "Sakila"
PostgreSQL's mascot is an elephant named "Slonik"
All three databases offer enterprise-grade security features
There's no universal "best" database—only the best choice for your specific needs. MySQL remains the safe, reliable choice for most web applications. MariaDB offers the perfect upgrade path with enhanced performance. PostgreSQL shines when you need advanced features and complex data handling.
Your decision should be based on your team's expertise, performance requirements, and long-term scalability needs rather than trends or popularity contests.
You're building your first web app or need maximum compatibility
You need better performance while keeping MySQL compatibility
Your application demands advanced features and data integrity
All three databases are embracing cloud-native features and managed services.
Expect enhanced AI and machine learning capabilities across all platforms.
Continued optimization for modern hardware and distributed architectures.
Improved tooling, better documentation, and simplified deployment processes.
Don't make a costly mistake. Our database experts will analyze your specific requirements and recommend the perfect solution for your project.
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