DynamoDB vs MongoDB

AWS's NoSQL powerhouse that scales like a dream but makes you think in keys and indexes meets the database for when you want to store json and pretend it's a schema. Here's our take.

DynamoDB

Nice Pick

AWS's NoSQL powerhouse that scales like a dream but makes you think in keys and indexes.

Pros

• Serverless architecture with automatic scaling
• Single-digit millisecond latency for most operations
• Built-in backup and point-in-time recovery
• Seamless integration with other AWS services

Cons

• Pricing can be unpredictable with high throughput
• Limited query flexibility compared to relational databases

MongoDB

The database for when you want to store JSON and pretend it's a schema.

Pros

• Flexible schema allows rapid prototyping and iteration
• Native JSON-like document storage fits well with modern web apps
• Horizontal scaling with sharding is straightforward
• Aggregation pipeline is powerful for complex queries

Cons

• Lack of enforced schema can lead to messy data over time
• Joins are clunky compared to relational databases

The Verdict

Use DynamoDB if: You want serverless architecture with automatic scaling and can live with pricing can be unpredictable with high throughput.

Use MongoDB if: You prioritize flexible schema allows rapid prototyping and iteration over what DynamoDB offers.

The Bottom Line

DynamoDB wins

AWS's NoSQL powerhouse that scales like a dream but makes you think in keys and indexes.