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Oracle TimesTen VS Informix

Compare Oracle TimesTen VS Informix and see what are their differences

Oracle TimesTen logo Oracle TimesTen

TimesTen is an in-memory, relational database management system with persistence and...

Informix logo Informix

IBM Informix is a secure embeddable database optimized for OLTP and IoT data. Informix can seamlessly integrate SQL, NoSQL/JSON, and time series and spatial data.
  • Oracle TimesTen Landing page
    Landing page //
    2023-06-17
  • Informix Landing page
    Landing page //
    2023-02-04

Oracle TimesTen features and specs

  • High Performance
    Oracle TimesTen is an in-memory database providing extremely fast data access and transaction processing, which is beneficial for applications that require real-time performance.
  • Low Latency
    Since the database is stored in memory, data retrieval and manipulation are very quick, reducing latency significantly compared to disk-based databases.
  • Scalability
    TimesTen can be easily scaled to handle large volumes of data and transaction loads, supporting hybrid configurations with Oracle Database to extend scalability and reliability.
  • SQL Compatibility
    It supports SQL and PL/SQL, making it easier for developers experienced with Oracle databases to use TimesTen without a steep learning curve.
  • High Availability
    TimesTen offers features like replication and failover for high availability which is crucial for mission-critical applications.
  • Integration with Oracle Ecosystem
    TimesTen integrates well with other tools and products in the Oracle ecosystem, allowing for seamless operations across different Oracle platforms.

Possible disadvantages of Oracle TimesTen

  • Cost
    Oracle TimesTen can be expensive compared to some of its open-source alternatives, making it less attractive for smaller businesses or projects with limited budgets.
  • Hardware Dependency
    Being an in-memory database, it requires machines with large RAM capacities to store substantial datasets, which can be a limiting factor.
  • Complexity
    Setting up and managing TimesTen can be complex, especially when trying to optimize for performance and ensure data consistency across systems.
  • Limited Community Support
    Unlike more popular database systems, the community support for TimesTen is limited, which means troubleshooting and problem-solving might not be as straightforward.
  • Data Volatility
    Since TimesTen stores data in memory, there’s a risk of data loss in the event of power failures, despite having persistence features to mitigate this risk.

Informix features and specs

  • High Performance
    Informix is optimized for high performance, making it suitable for handling large volumes of transactions and queries quickly and efficiently.
  • Embedded Database
    It can be embedded in applications, providing seamless integration that is ideal for IoT and edge computing environments.
  • Scalability
    Informix can scale to accommodate growing datasets and user loads, making it flexible for businesses of different sizes.
  • Hybrid Data Management
    Offers support for both SQL and NoSQL data models, allowing users to manage structured and unstructured data effectively.
  • Advanced Security Features
    Provides robust security mechanisms, including encryption, authentication, and access controls, to protect sensitive data.

Possible disadvantages of Informix

  • Complex Licensing
    The licensing model for Informix can be complicated, potentially leading to challenges in understanding costs and compliance.
  • Limited Popularity
    While powerful, Informix is less commonly used compared to other databases like MySQL or PostgreSQL, which may lead to a smaller community and fewer available resources.
  • Learning Curve
    Due to its extensive features and capabilities, new users might face a steep learning curve when getting started with Informix.
  • Dependency on IBM Support
    Businesses may become heavily reliant on IBM's support for maintenance and troubleshooting, which could entail ongoing costs.

Oracle TimesTen videos

My demo of Oracle TimesTen in memory DB with Free Developer Day tools with a VirtualBox VM appliance

Informix videos

The Truth Mobile investigates about Informix

More videos:

  • Review - Informix Update Statistics - Best Practices for Informix DBAs
  • Review - Informix Best Practices Webcast on Informix Auditing by Mike Walker

Category Popularity

0-100% (relative to Oracle TimesTen and Informix)
Databases
52 52%
48% 48
Relational Databases
79 79%
21% 21
NoSQL Databases
40 40%
60% 60
Network & Admin
100 100%
0% 0

User comments

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What are some alternatives?

When comparing Oracle TimesTen and Informix, you can also consider the following products

Matisse - Matisse is a post-relational SQL database.

LiveCode Platform - It is Both Under the GPL and it is also Proprietary if using the GPL version the software you make...

Datahike - A durable datalog database adaptable for distribution.

4D - 4D is a relational database management system and IDE.

Valentina Server - Valentina Server is 3 in 1: Valentina DB Server / SQLite Server / Report Server

ESM Tools - ESM Tools is a powerful and widely known software development platform that comes with a centralized model infrastructure, providing the common frame for compiling, running, downloading, and organizing models (ones or multiple).