stackstash

MongoDB vs MySQL

MongoDB and MySQL are free.

MongoDB logo: A document database that stores records as JSON-like documents instead of table rows.
MongoDB logo: A document database that stores records as JSON-like documents instead of table rows.

MongoDB

Free

A document database that stores records as JSON-like documents instead of table rows.

Try it

Pros of MongoDB

  • Add fields without a migration

  • Documents map cleanly to JavaScript objects

  • Free Atlas tier to start

Cons of MongoDB

  • Joins and reports are harder than in SQL

  • Without a schema, data drifts out of shape

  • Atlas jumps in price past the free and Flex tiers

MySQL logo: The relational database behind a huge share of web apps and WordPress.
MySQL logo: The relational database behind a huge share of web apps and WordPress.

MySQL

Free

The relational database behind a huge share of web apps and WordPress.

Try it

Pros of MySQL

  • Easy to find hosting

  • Familiar SQL

  • Free Community edition

Cons of MySQL

  • Fewer advanced features than Postgres

  • Oracle steers the project