The MongoDB vs. MySQL results in a tie. MySQL stands out for its solid security architecture and great ease of use, while MongoDB is much more flexible.

A brief summary of both systems

Database management systems are of utmost importance for most custom software development services. For a long time, MySQL was the best option. However, users are increasingly turning to other competitors. Although many similarities are seen when comparing MariaDB with MySQL , there are also alternatives that choose a completely different path. The most notable of these is MongoDB . However, this confronts newcomers with the question of which of the two databases is best suited for their purposes . Before comparing MySQL vs. MongoDB, we briefly introduce the two contenders.

MySQL

MySQL is the veteran among current database management systems. The software, initially developed by MySQL AB and now distributed by Oracle Corporation, has been around since 1995. MySQL is open source and is used as a relational database management system (RDBMS) primarily for storing software development service data. Large companies such as Meta, Twitter or YouTube rely totally or partially on MySQL, which is also integrated into numerous products. The software runs on Linux , macOS and Windows and has become the default solution for databases. 

MongoDB

Despite being considerably more recent than MySQL, MongoDB has managed to garner a devoted user base since its launch in 2009. The company MongoDB, Inc., formerly known as 10gen, developed the database system. The software is written in C++ and works document-oriented . MongoDB is considered a NoSQL system , where the “No” in this case means “not only”. The main characteristic of this type of non-relational system is above all its great scalability, which also characterizes MongoDB. Its peculiar name is made up of two English words: “huMONGOus” and “DataBase”. MongoDB is also open source.

MySQL vs. MongoDB: the similarities

If you compare both systems, it is surprising that both have similarities and aspects in common. So, before examining the differences, some of which are significant, it is worth taking a look at the points common to both contenders.

• Purpose : As much as MySQL and MongoDB differ from each other, at their core they are used for a similar purpose. Both function as database management systems and are mainly used in work with web projects.
• Operating systems : both systems can be used on and with all common operating systems.
• Open source : the MySQL vs. duel MongoDB is not solved with money. Both systems are free and open source. This means that, in theory, they can be developed and adapted to your liking.
• Community and documentation : Both providers have a large and passionate community of users. Here, users can quickly find help and answers to their questions and problems. Furthermore, both systems are excellently documented, so most ambiguities can be easily resolved by the users themselves.
• Learning Curve – As both options are logically structured, it is relatively easy to understand the quirks and structure of both. So, whether you want to learn how to use MySQL or opt for a practical MongoDB tutorial , in both cases you will learn right away.

MongoDB vs. MySQL: the main differences

Although both systems have some points in common, their differences are clearly notable. For example, MongoDB and MySQL differ from each other in a direct comparison:

Functioning

The biggest and most obvious difference is probably in how it works. MySQL opts for a relational approach. All data is stored in tables , made up of rows and columns. A key is then used to link them in a query. Unlike MySQL, MongoDB is an object- or document-oriented system . The data is stored in a BSON format, which is similar to JSON (JavaScript Object Notation). These can be combined as desired in so-called collections . When comparing MySQL vs. MongoDB we see that the documents are not subject to a fixed schema, but the tables are always structured in the same way.

MySQL and MongoDB also have different rules for querying. While MySQL relies entirely on SQL as its query language and uses the join function to join data with other tables, MongoDB takes a different approach. MQL (Mongo Query Language) is an independent language that is responsible for processing data. It offers numerous CRUD (Create, Read, Update, Delete) functions.

Architecture

There are also big differences in architecture. The NoSQL model follows a Nexus architecture and is therefore relatively flexible. MySQL, on the other hand, is based on a classic client-server architecture and therefore obtains optimized storage performance.

Flexibility

The previous sections already show that the youngest solution in the MongoDB vs. comparison. MySQL is much more flexible . This goal was one of the main reasons for developing the NoSQL solution. Schemes and designs can be changed easily, quickly and without downtime. MySQL, on the other hand, is based on a fixed schema to which all tables are subject. It is not easy to make a change. The same is true for scalability: in this case, MySQL is also relatively fixed; can only be scaled vertically. MongoDB, on the other hand, is very flexible and offers horizontal scaling options.

Speed

The flexibility and loose approach make MongoDB faster than MySQL. Inquiries can be answered and processed immediately. MySQL, on the other hand, is somewhat slower when handling large amounts of data due to its fixed table structure.

Security

The relatively rigid structures make MySQL considered a much more secure variant. In the case of MongoDB, security issues can arise if mistakes are made when establishing a structure.

MySQL vs. MongoDB: advantages and disadvantages

Advantages and disadvantages of MySQL

Advantages:

• Versatility : MySQL is compatible with numerous platforms, networks and systems. In addition, it adapts to different shapes and sizes.
• Security – MySQL is very well protected by security features like SSL and sticky structures.
• Ease of use : MySQL is very easy to use, learn and is very well documented.
• Storage Engine : A convenient storage engine allows you to identify the most frequently used tables.

Disadvantages:

• Flexibility : MySQL is significantly more rigid than MongoDB
• Dependency – The system depends on SQL and offers no alternatives
• Integrations : MySQL does not offer integrations with Java or Python

Advantages and disadvantages of MongoDB

Advantages:

• Flexibility : MongoDB is very flexible and scalable, so it can be used for numerous tasks
• Replication – Data can be replicated quickly and easily. This is also advantageous from a security point of view.
• Storage : Even data of different formats and sizes can be stored without negative effects
• Ease of use – MongoDB is easy to learn and has a very logical structure

Disadvantages:

• Memory consumption : MongoDB's memory consumption is relatively high
• Stored procedures : established logic cannot be automatically implemented in databases

Conclusion: in which cases is each system recommended?

Thus, it is concluded that the comparison MySQL vs. MongoDB does not have a clear winner . Both systems adapt perfectly to databases of all types. So, finally, it all depends on the requirements that your application case entails. MySQL is somewhat easier to use at first and is especially recommended for projects that follow a fixed structure or that do not need to be scalable. The robust security architecture is also a big advantage when dealing with particularly sensitive data.

MongoDB is a good option when you need great scalability and faster work speed. With both database systems you get a very good solution.