The Differences Between MongoDB and SQL Databases

When it comes to databases, there are two major types to consider: SQL databases and NoSQL databases. If you have experience with databases like MySQL or PostgreSQL, you are likely familiar with SQL, a specific language used to add and retrieve data in these databases. SQL databases have been around since 1986 and have proven to be a reliable technology.

On the other hand, NoSQL databases encompass all the databases that do not use SQL for data querying. One such database is MongoDB. MongoDB is what we call a document database, where objects, referred to as documents, are stored instead of traditional records.

So, what sets MongoDB apart from SQL databases? In SQL databases, tables are flat and static, meaning they can only store data within the defined structure and cannot be altered dynamically. To store complex data, you need to create multiple tables and establish relationships between them using common practices such as foreign keys and column types.

In contrast, MongoDB allows you to store any object without worrying about its specific fields or how to store them. You simply instruct MongoDB to store the object, and it handles it for you. Additionally, you don’t have to learn a separate language to interact with MongoDB; you can use JavaScript methods provided by MongoDB, although you can also use other programming languages if you prefer.

MongoDB stores data in a format similar to JSON but with extra capabilities to store more than just basic data types.

In summary, MongoDB and SQL databases differ in how they handle data storage and querying. SQL databases have a predefined structure with static tables, while MongoDB is more flexible, accommodating any object without the need for predefined schemas. MongoDB also provides a convenient JavaScript interface for interacting with data.

The Differences Between MongoDB and SQL Databases

Tags