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Alternatives

MySQL alternatives

MySQL is an open-source relational database by Oracle offering enterprise, AI, and cloud analytics features. Here are 24 similar tools on DevHunt, starting with the closest matches.

Quick answerThe best free MySQL alternative is PostgreSQL, for open-source relational DB. Pick PlanetScale for managed MySQL hosting, or Azure SQL Database for managed SQL on Azure.

At a glance

4 closest to MySQL
ToolBest forPricingVotesComparison
PlanetScaleManaged MySQL hostingPaid—vs MySQL →
PostgreSQLOpen-source relational DBFree, open source—vs MySQL →
Azure SQL DatabaseManaged SQL on AzurePaid—vs MySQL →
Amazon RDSManaged MySQL on AWSPaid—vs MySQL →

How to choose

  • For managed MySQL hosting: PlanetScale (paid)
  • For open-source relational DB: PostgreSQL (free, open source)
  • For managed SQL on Azure: Azure SQL Database (paid)
  • For managed MySQL on AWS: Amazon RDS (paid)
  • For open-source relational database with enterprise extensions: MySQL itself

Closest alternatives

compared with MySQL
  • PlanetScale▲ 0 · Subscription

    PlanetScale offers a hosted MySQL service focused on scaling, while MySQL provides on-premise and cloud editions with enterprise features. MySQL vs PlanetScale →

  • PostgreSQL▲ 0 · Free

    PostgreSQL is an open-source relational database with a different feature set and ecosystem; MySQL includes proprietary enterprise tools and AI extensions. MySQL vs PostgreSQL →

  • Azure SQL Database▲ 0 · Subscription

    Azure SQL Database is a managed Microsoft SQL service; MySQL is Oracle’s open-source database with its own cloud and on-prem options. MySQL vs Azure SQL Database →

  • Amazon RDS▲ 0 · Subscription

    Amazon RDS offers managed MySQL among other engines; MySQL itself provides the core database engine and enterprise add-ons. MySQL vs Amazon RDS →

More DB tools

most upvoted on DevHunt
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FAQ

What is the best alternative to MySQL?+

The closest MySQL alternatives are PlanetScale (managed MySQL hosting), PostgreSQL (open-source relational DB) and Azure SQL Database (managed SQL on Azure). Amazon RDS is also close. Each one links to a side-by-side comparison with MySQL.

What is the best free alternative to MySQL?+

PostgreSQL (open-source relational DB) is the closest free alternative to MySQL.

Is there an open source alternative to MySQL?+

Yes. PostgreSQL (open-source relational DB) is open source.

What is MySQL used for?+

MySQL is an open-source relational database by Oracle offering enterprise, AI, and cloud analytics features. Common uses: run AI/ML workloads directly in the database with HeatWave, deploy highly available, scalable web and cloud services using MySQL Cluster and embed MySQL as the database engine in OEM/ISV products.

Is MySQL free?+

MySQL is open source and free to use.