SQL vs NoSQL - Finding the Right DBMS for Your Project

When it comes to database technology the two main classifications are - SQL and NoSQL or, relational databases and non-relational databases. They can be differentiated in terms of the structure used, type of data, and the method of storage. Relational databases are used for structured information like school records while Non-relational databases are document-oriented and distributed like file folders.

The terms SQL and NoSQL indicate whether the database is written solely in structured query language (SQL) or not. In this blog, we’ll discuss in depth the meaning of SQL and NoSQL databases, how are they different and which one should be chosen based on individual cases.

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What is SQL and Relational Databases?

A relational database is a structured method of storing data in the form of tables i.e. rows and columns. The relational database is also called SQL database since it is written using the Structured Query Language (SQL). The rows represent entries while columns are used for classification of values. The relationship between these rows and columns is called schema. In a relational database, the description of schema serves as the basis for adding data.

For an SQL (or relational) database to be effective the data needs to effectively structured, thus leading to rigidity but better organization. SQL databases are popular among developers as they fit naturally into many software stacks, including LAMP and Ruby-based stacks. These databases are easy to understand and hence are widely supported.

SQL Database Examples:

• MySQL - the most popular open-source SQL database which is usually combined with Apache and PHP. It works well for CMS sites and blogs.
• Oracle - a C++ based object-relational DBMS. It is paid but ensures great customer service and dependability.
• IBM DB2 - an IBM product suitable for big data analytics.
• Sybase—another relational database for businesses which was the first enterprise-level DBMS for Linux.
• MS SQL Server—an enterprise level RDBMS developed by Microsoft. It can support both SQL and NoSQL database architectures.
• MariaDB—an amplified, drop-in version of MySQL.
• PostgreSQL—an object-relational, enterprise-level DBMS. It uses procedural languages like Perl and Python, along with the SQL-level code.

What is NoSQL and Non-Relational Database?

Even though relational databases work well for structured data, their rigidity creates complications on dealing with unstructured data. This is where non-relational databases, come to the rescue, by offering greater flexibility than their traditional counterparts. To store, manage and analyze this unstructured data we use a schema-less alternative called NoSQL (Not only SQL) database.

As an alternative to tables, NoSQL databases use a document-oriented approach to database management. This means that non-structured data (such as text, images, social media data, videos etc. within a blog post) can be stored in a single document. These files will be easy to find but won’t be necessarily categorized into fields like in case of a relational database. It’s more flexible, but highly resource intensive in terms of processing and storage requirements. Hence is usually implemented through cloud computing.  

NoSQL Database Types (with Examples):

• Key-value model - the simplest NoSQL solution, that stores data in a schema-less fashion using indexed keys and values. Examples: Apache Cassandra, Microsoft Azure, LevelDB, and Riak.
• Column store - uses an inverted table approach where data tables are stored as columns rather than rows. The sectioning out of columns allows for better scalability and performance. Examples: BigTable, HBase, HyperTable.
• Document database - each document is provided a unique key for retrieving its data. You can understand this as the key-value concept with added rigidity. It is a great solution for managing document which is somewhat structured but needs a NoSQL approach. Examples: CouchDB, MongoDB.
• Graph database -  used to represent interconnected data as a graph. This approach allows for high level of complexity. Examples: Neo4J, Polyglot

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Identifying the Best Fit - NoSQL vs SQL:

Let's compare SQL and NoSQL databases side by side in different scenarios to help you figure out the best fit for your requirements:

• Complex queries:

SQL databases supersede NoSQL when it comes to handling query intensive complex databases. The queries in themselves are more powerful in SQL in comparison to NoSQL. On a high level, NoSQL doesn’t have standard interfaces to perform complex queries.

• Data Storage:

When it comes to handling hierarchical data NoSQL database proves to be a better fit since it follows the key-value pair way of storing data which is similar to JSON data. In case of handling big data, NoSQL database is the go-to option because of extreme variations and volume.

• Scalability:

SQL databases are vertically scalable. It means that increase in load can be managed by increasing the CPU, RAM, SSD, etc., on a single server. On the contrary, NoSQL databases can be scaled horizontally. You can increase the number of servers to handle the increase in traffic.

• Transactional applications:

SQL databases are the appropriate solution for heavy transactional applications. Relational databases are more stable and ensure data integrity. While NoSQL offer scope for transactional application, it is highly limited and unstable making it unsuitable for complex transactional applications.

Support: Since SQL is easily understood by almost all software developers, it is easy to secure great support at an optimal cost. Even the major vendors have their own customer support teams. In case of NoSQL database, you will either need to consult specialists (which cost comparatively more) or rely on the community support.

As you have seen the choice between SQL and NoSQL databases depends largely on individual requirements. Both DBMS have their own pros and cons and you will need specialized skills to deal with the customer requirements. At NewGenApps, we have developed deep expertise in handling various software requirements (both mobile and web). If you have a new project or need help in deployment or migration of your existing data, feel free to get in touch.