MySQL vs Microsoft SQL Server: Head-to-Head Comparison

Quick Verdict

MySQL is the better pick for web applications needing a proven relational database. Microsoft SQL Server is the better pick for .NET and Windows-centric enterprises.

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At a Glance

Feature	MySQL	Microsoft SQL Server
Best For	Web applications needing a proven relational database	.NET and Windows-centric enterprises
Pricing	Free and open source	Free Express and Developer editions; licensed production
Free to Start	Yes	Yes
License	Open source	Proprietary
Deployment	Self-hosted or managed cloud	Self-hosted or managed cloud
Link	Visit MySQL	Visit Microsoft SQL Server

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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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Microsoft SQL Server

Microsoft’s enterprise relational database

Pros:

• Excellent tooling
• Strong BI and reporting features
• Free Express and Developer editions

Cons:

• Licensing costs for production
• Best on the Microsoft stack

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Key Differences

• Positioning: MySQL — popular open-source relational database owned by Oracle. Microsoft SQL Server — Microsoft’s enterprise relational database.
• Licensing differs: MySQL is open source while Microsoft SQL Server is proprietary.
• Pricing: MySQL — free and open source. Microsoft SQL Server — free Express and Developer editions; licensed production.
• Signature strength: MySQL — ubiquitous hosting support. Microsoft SQL Server — excellent tooling.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is MySQL better than Microsoft SQL Server?

It depends on your requirements. MySQL is a strong fit for web applications needing a proven relational database, while Microsoft SQL Server suits .NET and Windows-centric enterprises.

Is MySQL free to use?

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

Is Microsoft SQL Server free to use?

Yes, you can start with Microsoft SQL Server for free. Pricing model: Free Express and Developer editions; licensed production.

Can I self-host MySQL or Microsoft SQL Server?

MySQL can be self-hosted. Deployment options: self-hosted or managed cloud. Microsoft SQL Server can be self-hosted. Deployment options: self-hosted or managed cloud.

What are the main drawbacks of MySQL and Microsoft SQL Server?

MySQL: fewer advanced SQL features than Postgres; concerns about Oracle stewardship. Microsoft SQL Server: licensing costs for production; best on the Microsoft stack.