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Microsoft SQL VS MemSQL

Compare Microsoft SQL VS MemSQL and see what are their differences

Microsoft SQL logo Microsoft SQL

Microsoft SQL is a best in class relational database management software that facilitates the database server to provide you a primary function to store and retrieve data.

MemSQL logo MemSQL

Database for real-time transactions and analytics.
  • Microsoft SQL Landing page
    Landing page //
    2023-01-26
  • MemSQL Landing page
    Landing page //
    2023-04-21

Microsoft SQL features and specs

  • Comprehensive Feature Set
    SQL Server offers a wide range of features including advanced analytics, in-memory capabilities, robust security measures, and integration services.
  • High Performance
    With in-memory OLTP and support for persistent memory technologies, SQL Server provides high transaction and query performance.
  • Scalability
    SQL Server can scale from small installations on single machines to large, data-intensive applications requiring high throughput and storage.
  • Security
    SQL Server offers advanced security features like encryption, dynamic data masking, and advanced threat protection, ensuring data safety and compliance.
  • Integrations
    It easily integrates with other Microsoft products such as Azure, Power BI, and Active Directory, providing a cohesive ecosystem for enterprise solutions.
  • Developer Friendly
    It supports a wide range of development tools and languages including .NET, Python, Java, and more, making it highly versatile for developers.
  • High Availability
    Features like Always On availability groups and failover clustering provide high availability and disaster recovery options for critical applications.

Possible disadvantages of Microsoft SQL

  • Cost
    SQL Server can be expensive, particularly for the Enterprise edition. Licensing costs can add up quickly depending on the features and scale required.
  • Complexity
    Due to its comprehensive feature set, SQL Server can be complex to configure and manage, requiring skilled administrators and developers.
  • Resource Intensive
    SQL Server can be resource-intensive, requiring substantial hardware resources for optimal performance, which can increase overall operational costs.
  • Windows-Centric
    While SQL Server can run on Linux, it is primarily optimized for and tightly integrated with the Windows ecosystem, which may not suit all organizations.
  • Vendor Lock-In
    Being a proprietary solution, it can cause vendor lock-in, making it challenging to switch to alternative database systems without significant migration efforts.

MemSQL features and specs

  • Performance
    MemSQL is designed for high performance, offering real-time analytics and fast query speeds. Its in-memory architecture significantly reduces latency.
  • Scalability
    MemSQL easily scales horizontally across multiple nodes, allowing it to handle large datasets and high throughput demands.
  • SQL Compatibility
    It offers full ANSI SQL support, allowing users to leverage their existing SQL skills and tools for database operations.
  • Operational Simplicity
    MemSQL provides features like automated backups, updates, and scaling, simplifying database administration.
  • Hybrid Storage
    Combines in-memory row storage and disk-based column storage to provide flexibility for different use cases, balancing speed and cost-effectiveness.

Possible disadvantages of MemSQL

  • Cost
    MemSQL can be expensive, particularly for startups or small businesses, due to its commercial licensing and potential need for high-end hardware.
  • Complexity
    While operational simplicity is a goal, the initial setup and configuration of MemSQL can be complex and may require specialized knowledge.
  • Hardware Requirements
    Optimal performance often requires high-end, memory-rich hardware, which can be a barrier for organizations with limited budget.
  • Community and Ecosystem
    Compared to more established databases like MySQL or PostgreSQL, MemSQL has a smaller community and fewer third-party tools or integrations.
  • Proprietary Nature
    Being a commercial solution, MemSQL does not have the same level of transparency or community-driven development as open-source databases.

Microsoft SQL videos

3.1 Microsoft SQL Server Review

More videos:

  • Review - What is Microsoft SQL Server?
  • Review - Querying Microsoft SQL Server (T-SQL) | Udemy Instructor, Phillip Burton [bestseller]

MemSQL videos

MemSQL Architecture Overview and Product Demo

More videos:

  • Review - memsql server headphones unboxing and review.
  • Review - MemSQL Co-Founders on Real-Time Data Warehousing

Category Popularity

0-100% (relative to Microsoft SQL and MemSQL)
Databases
84 84%
16% 16
Relational Databases
86 86%
14% 14
Tool
89 89%
11% 11
NoSQL Databases
67 67%
33% 33

User comments

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What are some alternatives?

When comparing Microsoft SQL and MemSQL, you can also consider the following products

MySQL - The world's most popular open source database

PostgreSQL - PostgreSQL is a powerful, open source object-relational database system.

SQLite - SQLite Home Page

Oracle DBaaS - See how Oracle Database 12c enables businesses to plug into the cloud and power the real-time enterprise.

Oracle Database 12c - Simplify database management and automate the information lifecycle with maximum security.

SAP HANA - SAP HANA is an in-memory, column-oriented, relational database management system.