MySQL vs Apache Cassandra: Head-to-Head Comparison

Quick Verdict

MySQL is the better pick for web applications needing a proven relational database. Apache Cassandra is the better pick for write-heavy workloads needing high availability across regions.

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At a Glance

Feature	MySQL	Apache Cassandra
Best For	Web applications needing a proven relational database	Write-heavy workloads needing high availability across regions
Pricing	Free and open source	Free and open source
Free to Start	Yes	Yes
License	Open source	Open source
Deployment	Self-hosted or managed cloud	Self-hosted or managed cloud
Link	Visit MySQL	Visit Apache Cassandra

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Detailed Breakdown

MySQL

Popular open-source relational database owned by Oracle

Pros:

• Ubiquitous hosting support
• Fast reads
• Mature replication

Cons:

• Fewer advanced SQL features than Postgres
• Concerns about Oracle stewardship

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Apache Cassandra

Distributed wide-column NoSQL database

Pros:

• Linear horizontal scaling
• No single point of failure
• Multi-datacenter replication

Cons:

• Query patterns must be designed upfront
• Operationally demanding

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Key Differences

• Positioning: MySQL — popular open-source relational database owned by Oracle. Apache Cassandra — distributed wide-column NoSQL database.
• Both share the same licensing model (open source), so the decision comes down to features and workflow fit.
• Pricing: MySQL — free and open source. Apache Cassandra — free and open source.
• Signature strength: MySQL — ubiquitous hosting support. Apache Cassandra — linear horizontal scaling.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is MySQL better than Apache Cassandra?

It depends on your requirements. MySQL is a strong fit for web applications needing a proven relational database, while Apache Cassandra suits write-heavy workloads needing high availability across regions.

Is MySQL free to use?

Yes, you can start with MySQL for free. Pricing model: Free and open source.

Is Apache Cassandra free to use?

Yes, you can start with Apache Cassandra for free. Pricing model: Free and open source.

Can I self-host MySQL or Apache Cassandra?

MySQL can be self-hosted. Deployment options: self-hosted or managed cloud. Apache Cassandra can be self-hosted. Deployment options: self-hosted or managed cloud.

What are the main drawbacks of MySQL and Apache Cassandra?

MySQL: fewer advanced SQL features than Postgres; concerns about Oracle stewardship. Apache Cassandra: query patterns must be designed upfront; operationally demanding.