Azure Database for MySQL vs Azure Database for PostgreSQL: What are the differences?

Introduction

Azure Database for MySQL and Azure Database for PostgreSQL are both managed database services offered by Microsoft Azure. While both services provide benefits and functionalities for their respective database types, there are key differences that set them apart from each other. In this article, we will explore and compare these differences.

1. Data Structure: Azure Database for MySQL is designed to be fully compatible with MySQL, a popular open-source relational database management system. It supports features such as primary keys, foreign keys, and stored procedures. On the other hand, Azure Database for PostgreSQL is built to be fully compatible with PostgreSQL, another popular open-source relational database management system. It includes features like table inheritance, complex data types, and support for multiple indexing methods.

2. Language Support: Azure Database for MySQL primarily supports SQL as its query language, allowing users to interact with the database using standard SQL queries. In contrast, Azure Database for PostgreSQL supports SQL as well as the rich and powerful procedural language, PL/pgSQL. This allows users to define functions, triggers, and stored procedures within the database.

3. Geographic Availability: Both Azure Database for MySQL and Azure Database for PostgreSQL are available in multiple regions across the globe. However, the availability of specific regions may vary between the two services. It is important to check the Azure documentation to determine which regions are supported for each service.

4. Performance and Scalability: Azure Database for MySQL and Azure Database for PostgreSQL offer similar performance and scalability capabilities. Both services use Azure's underlying infrastructure to provide high availability, automatic backups, and automated patching. However, the performance and scalability of each service may vary depending on the specific workload and configurations.

5. Cost: The pricing models for Azure Database for MySQL and Azure Database for PostgreSQL are similar, but there may be slight differences in pricing tiers and options. It is important to review the Azure pricing documentation to understand the specific costs associated with each service.

6. Ecosystem Integration: Azure Database for MySQL and Azure Database for PostgreSQL can integrate with other Azure services and tools seamlessly. Both services can be used with Azure Monitor for monitoring, Azure Security Center for security, and Azure Automation for managing backups and maintenance tasks. Additionally, Azure Database for MySQL and Azure Database for PostgreSQL can both integrate with Azure Virtual Network for secure network connectivity.

In Summary, Azure Database for MySQL and Azure Database for PostgreSQL differ in terms of data structure, language support, geographic availability, performance and scalability, cost, and ecosystem integration.