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Difference between SQL and NoSQL

Last Updated : 24 Jan, 2025

Choosing between SQL (Structured Query Language) and NoSQL (Not

Only SQL) databases is a critical decision for developers, data
engineers, and organizations looking to handle large datasets
effectively. Both database types have their strengths and weaknesses,
and understanding the key differences can help us make an informed
decision based on our project's needs.

In this article, we will explain the key differences between SQL and
NoSQL databases, including their structure, scalability, and use cases.
We will also explore which database is more suitable for various types
of applications and provide insights into when to choose SQL over
NoSQL and vice versa.

Differences Between SQL and NoSQL

Aspect SQL (Relational) NoSQL (Non-relational)

Document-based, key-
Data Tables with rows and
value, column-family, or
Structure columns
graph-based

Fixed schema (predefined Flexible schema (dynamic

Schema
structure) and adaptable)

Vertically scalable Horizontally scalable

Scalability
(upgrading hardware) (adding more servers)

ACID-compliant (strong BASE-compliant (more

Data Integrity
consistency) available, less consistent)
 Aspect SQL (Relational) NoSQL (Non-relational)

Query SQL (Structured Query Varies (e.g., MongoDB uses

Language Language) its own query language)

Better for large-scale data

Efficient for complex
Performance and fast read/write
queries and transactions
operations

Best for transactional

Ideal for big data, real-time
Use Case systems (banking, ERP,
web apps, and data lakes
etc.)

MySQL, PostgreSQL, MongoDB, Cassandra,

Examples
Oracle, MS SQL Server CouchDB, Neo4j

1. Type

SQL databases are primarily called Relational Databases (RDBMS);

whereas NoSQL databases are primarily called non-relational or
distributed databases.

2. Language

SQL databases define and manipulate data-based structured query

language (SQL). Seeing from a side this language is extremely
powerful. SQL is one of the most versatile and widely-used options
available which makes it a safe choice, especially for great complex
queries. But from another side, it can be restrictive.

SQL requires you to use predefined schemas to determine the structure

of your data before you work with it. Also, all of our data must follow
the same structure. This can require significant up-front preparation
which means that a change in the structure would be both difficult and
disruptive to your whole system.

3. Scalability
In almost all situations SQL databases are vertically scalable. This
means that you can increase the load on a single server by increasing
things like RAM, CPU, or SSD. But on the other hand, NoSQL databases
are horizontally scalable. This means that you handle more traffic by
sharing, or adding more servers in your NoSQL database.

It is similar to adding more floors to the same building versus adding

more buildings to the neighborhood. Thus NoSQL can ultimately
become larger and more powerful, making these databases the
preferred choice for large or ever-changing data sets.

4. Structure

SQL databases are table-based on the other hand NoSQL databases

are either key-value pairs, document-based, graph databases, or
wide-column stores. This makes relational SQL databases a better
option for applications that require multi-row transactions such as an
accounting system or for legacy systems that were built for a relational
structure.

Here is a simple example of how a structured data with rows and

columns vs a non-structured data without definition might look like. A
product table in SQL db might accept data looking like this:

{
"id": "101",
"category":"food"
"name":"Apples",
"qty":"150"
}

Whereas a unstructured NOSQL DB might save the products in many

variations without constraints to change the underlying table structure

Products=[
{
"id":"101:
"category":"food",,
"name":"California Apples",
"qty":"150"
 },
{
"id":"102,
"category":"electronics"
"name":"Apple MacBook Air",
"qty":"10",
"specifications":{
"storage":"256GB SSD",
"cpu":"8 Core",
"camera": "1080p FaceTime HD camera"
}
}
]

5. Property followed

SQL databases follow ACID properties (Atomicity, Consistency,

Isolation, and Durability) whereas the NoSQL database follows the
Brewers CAP theorem (Consistency, Availability, and Partition
tolerance).

6. Support

Great support is available for all SQL databases from their vendors.
Also, a lot of independent consultants are there who can help you with
SQL databases for very large-scale deployments but for some NoSQL
databases you still have to rely on community support and only limited
outside experts are available for setting up and deploying your large-
scale NoSQL deploy.

What is SQL?
SQL databases, also known as Relational Database Management
Systems (RDBMS), use structured tables to store data. They rely on a
predefined schema that determines the organization of data within
tables, making them suitable for applications that require a fixed,
consistent structure.

Structured Data: Data is organized in tables with rows and columns,

making it easy to relate different types of information.
 ACID Compliance: SQL databases follow the ACID properties
(Atomicity, Consistency, Isolation, Durability) to ensure reliable
transactions and data integrity.
Examples: Popular SQL databases include MySQL, PostgreSQL,
Oracle, and MS SQL Server.

What is NoSQL?
NoSQL databases, on the other hand, are designed to handle
unstructured or semi-structured data. Unlike SQL databases, NoSQL
offers dynamic schemas that allow for more flexible data storage,
making them ideal for handling massive volumes of data from various
sources.

Flexible Schema: NoSQL databases allow the storage of data

without a predefined structure, making them more adaptable to
changing data requirements.
CAP Theorem: NoSQL databases are designed based on the CAP
theorem (Consistency, Availability, Partition Tolerance), which
prioritizes availability and partition tolerance over strict consistency.
Examples: Well-known NoSQL databases include MongoDB,
Cassandra, CouchDB, and HBase.

SQL vs NoSQL: Which is Faster?

SQL Databases: Generally, SQL databases perform well for complex
queries, structured data, and systems requiring data consistency and
integrity. However, as the volume of data grows, they may struggle
with scalability and may require significant infrastructure upgrades.
NoSQL Databases: NoSQL databases excel in scenarios that
demand high performance and scalability. Because of their
horizontal scalability (accommodating more servers), they handle
large amounts of data and high-velocity workloads better. For
instance, MongoDB or Cassandra is a common choice when dealing
with big data or applications with high traffic.

When to Choose SQL?

SQL databases are well-suited for use cases where:
 Data consistency and transactional integrity are critical (e.g.,
banking systems, customer relationship management).
The application needs a well-defined schema and structured data.
Complex queries and relational data are involved.
Applications requiring multi-row transactions (such as inventory
management) benefit from SQL’s robust features.

When to Choose NoSQL?

NoSQL databases are a better choice when:

You need to handle large, unstructured data sets, like social media
data or logs.
The application requires horizontal scalability to accommodate high
traffic and big data.
There is a need for real-time data processing and flexible data
models (e.g., a content management system).
You are dealing with applications requiring frequent changes in data
structures.

Conclusion
Both SQL and NoSQL databases offer unique advantages, depending
on the application’s requirements. SQL databases are great for
structured, relational data where consistency and complex queries are a
priority. On the other hand, NoSQL databases are better suited for
flexible, large-scale, unstructured data handling and fast, scalable
performance. SQL is ideal for data with well-defined relationships and
consistency requirements.
SQL vs NO SQL

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