PostgreSQL vs MySQL in 2025: What I Pick and Why
🎯 The Real Difference
PostgreSQL and MySQL are both excellent databases. The choice between them matters less than most people think—but there are cases where one fits better.
✅ When I Choose PostgreSQL
1. Complex Queries and Data Types
PostgreSQL handles JSON, arrays, and complex types better. If I'm doing analytics, full-text search, or need rich data types, PostgreSQL wins.
2. ACID Compliance
PostgreSQL is stricter about transactions and constraints. For financial data or anything where consistency is critical, I prefer PostgreSQL.
3. Extensibility
PostgreSQL extensions (PostGIS, pg_trgm, etc.) are powerful. If I need geospatial data or advanced features, PostgreSQL has more options.
✅ When I Choose MySQL
1. Simplicity
MySQL is simpler. For straightforward CRUD apps with no special requirements, MySQL is easier to set up and manage.
2. Read-Heavy Workloads
MySQL's replication is mature and simple. For read-heavy apps with lots of replicas, MySQL can be easier to scale.
3. Existing Infrastructure
If the team already knows MySQL, or if hosting providers offer better MySQL support, use MySQL. Don't fight the ecosystem.
⚠️ What Doesn't Matter
- Performance: Both are fast enough for most apps. The bottleneck is usually your queries, not the database.
- Popularity: Both are widely used. You'll find help for either.
- "Better": Neither is universally better. It depends on your needs.
💡 My Default
I default to PostgreSQL for new projects. It's more feature-rich, and I rarely regret having extra capabilities. But if MySQL fits better, I use MySQL.
💭 My Take
Pick one and learn it well. The database choice matters less than writing good queries, indexing properly, and understanding your data model.
Both databases will serve you well. The real skill is using whichever one you pick effectively.