stackstash

SQL Server vs Postgres

SQL Server and Postgres are free.

SQL Server logo: Microsoft’s relational database. The usual pair with C# and Azure.
SQL Server logo: Microsoft’s relational database. The usual pair with C# and Azure.

SQL Server

Free

Microsoft’s relational database. The usual pair with C# and Azure.

Try it

Pros of SQL Server

  • Natural pair with C#

  • Strong Azure tooling

  • Express is free to start

Cons of SQL Server

  • Paid editions get expensive

  • Less common outside Microsoft shops

Postgres logo: Open-source relational database. The usual pick when you want real SQL.
Postgres logo: Open-source relational database. The usual pick when you want real SQL.

Postgres

Free

Open-source relational database. The usual pick when you want real SQL.

Try it

Pros of Postgres

  • Reliable relational database

  • JSON without leaving SQL

  • Free to run yourself

Cons of Postgres

  • You manage backups and upgrades

  • Heavier than SQLite for a tiny app