I'll bite on this one.
vs. mysql:
psql has much stronger support for advanced sql features that promote
good database design. This is very important if you want to build a
complex database without writing tons of code. If you go with mysql be
prepared to write a lot of code to broker the data in and out of your
database. If you are into serious database development, IMO steer clear
of this database. The hype surrounding this database far outstrips the
capability of the database itself.
vs. ms sql:
If you are on the Microsoft platform (and don't mind paying for this
server), this is a tougher choice. There are a lot of good things about
this product:
Tight integration with .net
A very respectable feature set, with some nice administration features.
More familiar to those who prefer Microsoft style tools and development.
M$ addressed the need for a light database deployment (think, bundled
with app) when the introduced the MSDE, a paired down version of sql
server. If you pick this option, you will not have made the wrong
choice, even if it's not the best one.
The big problem with ms sql is vendor lock in: migrating off this
platform means scrapping your project and rethinking your development
style. Also, if you really know your stuff, Microsoft's 'GUI heavy'
administration style is mostly just intrusive and annoying (although, by
Microsoft standards, not too bad). I am very conflicted about this
database, but around 7.1, the pg team knocked out the few remaining
reasons to go with this solution. The lack of a native windows port is
an issue (but an easily resolvable one) if you are considering
deployment onto end user computers.
If you are at all into performance, you will find postgres to be far and
away faster than any other database on the market, except for a small
class of operations that have been carefully considered to be on the
other side of the speed/reliability tradeoff.
The best answer I can give you is: given the same developer talent,
choosing psql will give you a better product in less time, and offers
the best flexibility. These practical advantages are offered for free
with a very liberal software license.
Merlin
-----Original Message-----
From: Joshua Lewis [mailto:jlewis(at)monauto(dot)com]
Sent: Tuesday, July 29, 2003 3:23 PM
To: 'webmaster(at)postgresql(dot)org'
Subject: [pgsql-advocacy] [webmaster] Sorry to bother you
What is postgresql. How is it different to MYSQL. I don't need a big
long history or something. I am just curious why someone would use PSQL
as apposed to MS SQL or MySQL
Sincerely,
Joshua Lewis
MAS PC Support
800-225-9056