SQL vs NoSQL (Trade-offs)

Quick Reference: Step 2: Databases | Consistency vs Availability

Quick Reference

SQL: ACID, complex queries, vertical scaling

NoSQL: Horizontal scaling, flexible schema, eventual consistency

Trade-off: Consistency/complexity vs scalability/flexibility

Clear Definition

SQL vs NoSQL trade-off: SQL provides ACID guarantees and complex queries but harder to scale. NoSQL scales horizontally and has flexible schema but weaker consistency.

šŸ’” Key Insight: Use SQL for transactions, NoSQL for scale. Many systems use both (polyglot persistence).

Core Concepts

SQL Trade-offs

  • Pros: ACID, complex queries, mature
  • Cons: Harder to scale, rigid schema

NoSQL Trade-offs

  • Pros: Horizontal scaling, flexible schema
  • Cons: Weaker consistency, limited queries

Best Practices

  1. Choose Based on Needs: Transactions = SQL, Scale = NoSQL
  2. Polyglot: Use both for different purposes
  3. Evaluate Requirements: Understand trade-offs

Quick Reference Summary

SQL: ACID, complex queries, harder to scale.

NoSQL: Horizontal scaling, flexible schema, weaker consistency.

Key: Choose based on requirements. Many use both.

Previous Topic: Consistency vs Availability ā†

Next Topic: Memory vs Latency ā†’

Back to: Step 11 Overview | Main Index