MemSQL vs PostgreSQL: What are the differences?

Introduction

MemSQL and PostgreSQL are both popular relational database management systems (RDBMS) used for storing and managing data. However, they have some key differences in terms of architecture, scalability, and performance.

1. Architectural Differences: MemSQL is a distributed database system that uses a distributed architecture, allowing it to horizontally scale across multiple nodes. On the other hand, PostgreSQL is based on a traditional master-slave architecture, where replication and sharding techniques are used for scalability.

2. Performance Differences: MemSQL is designed with in-memory processing capabilities, which allows it to deliver extremely high performance for real-time analytics and high-speed transaction processing. In contrast, PostgreSQL is not primarily designed for in-memory processing and may not perform as well in scenarios requiring real-time processing or high-speed transactions.

3. Data Storage Differences: MemSQL uses a hybrid storage engine that combines in-memory row storage and on-disk columnar storage. This allows it to optimize the data storage for both operational and analytical workloads. On the other hand, PostgreSQL primarily uses a traditional on-disk row-based storage model.

4. SQL Compatibility Differences: PostgreSQL is known for its excellent support of SQL standards and offers a wide range of SQL features and extensions. MemSQL also supports SQL, but it may not support the same level of SQL standards and extensions as PostgreSQL.

5. Scalability and Elasticity Differences: Due to its distributed architecture, MemSQL offers better scalability and elasticity compared to PostgreSQL. MemSQL can easily scale horizontally by adding more nodes to the cluster, allowing it to handle large-scale workloads and high concurrency.

6. Use Cases Differences: While PostgreSQL is a general-purpose RDBMS that can handle various types of applications and workloads, MemSQL is specifically designed for real-time analytics, fast ingestions, and high-speed transaction processing. MemSQL excels in scenarios where low-latency and real-time data processing are critical, such as real-time analytics and operational intelligence.

In Summary: MemSQL and PostgreSQL have key differences in terms of architecture, performance, data storage, SQL compatibility, scalability, and use cases. MemSQL offers a distributed architecture, in-memory processing, hybrid storage engine, and better scalability, making it suitable for real-time analytics and high-speed transactions. PostgreSQL, on the other hand, excels in SQL standards and compatibility and is a general-purpose RDBMS suited for various application types and workloads.