Embedded Databases vs Cloud Databases

Developers should use embedded databases when building applications that need local data storage without the overhead of a full database server, such as mobile apps, desktop tools, or IoT devices with limited resources meets developers should use cloud databases when building scalable applications that require flexible data storage, such as web apps, mobile backends, or iot systems, to reduce operational overhead and leverage built-in security and compliance. Here's our take.

Embedded Databases

Nice Pick

Developers should use embedded databases when building applications that need local data storage without the overhead of a full database server, such as mobile apps, desktop tools, or IoT devices with limited resources

Pros

• They are ideal for scenarios requiring portability, simplicity, and low latency, like caching, configuration storage, or offline data access in single-user or small-scale environments
• Related to: sqlite, h2-database

Cons

• Specific tradeoffs depend on your use case

Cloud Databases

Developers should use cloud databases when building scalable applications that require flexible data storage, such as web apps, mobile backends, or IoT systems, to reduce operational overhead and leverage built-in security and compliance

Pros

• They are ideal for projects needing rapid deployment, cost-efficiency based on usage, and integration with other cloud services like serverless computing or analytics tools
• Related to: sql, nosql

Cons

• Specific tradeoffs depend on your use case

The Verdict

These tools serve different purposes. Embedded Databases is a database while Cloud Databases is a platform. We picked Embedded Databases based on overall popularity, but your choice depends on what you're building.

The Bottom Line

Embedded Databases wins

Based on overall popularity. Embedded Databases is more widely used, but Cloud Databases excels in its own space.