Microsoft SQL Server vs PostgreSQL

The enterprise database that loves Windows more than your IT department loves stability meets the database that actually respects your data, with more features than you'll ever need but you'll love having them anyway. Here's our take.

Microsoft SQL Server

Nice Pick

The enterprise database that loves Windows more than your IT department loves stability.

Pros

• Seamless integration with the Microsoft ecosystem (e.g., Azure, .NET, Power BI)
• Robust enterprise features like Always On availability groups and in-memory OLTP
• Excellent performance for transaction-heavy workloads with strong ACID compliance

Cons

• Licensing costs can be eye-watering for small teams or startups
• Historically Windows-centric, though Linux support is improving but still second-class

PostgreSQL

The database that actually respects your data, with more features than you'll ever need but you'll love having them anyway.

Pros

• Rock-solid ACID compliance and transactional integrity
• Rich set of built-in data types including JSON, arrays, and custom types
• Excellent performance with advanced indexing options like GIN and GiST
• Strong community support and extensive documentation

Cons

• Configuration can be complex and overwhelming for beginners
• Memory usage tends to be higher compared to some other databases

The Verdict

Use Microsoft SQL Server if: You want seamless integration with the microsoft ecosystem (e.g., azure, .net, power bi) and can live with licensing costs can be eye-watering for small teams or startups.

Use PostgreSQL if: You prioritize rock-solid acid compliance and transactional integrity over what Microsoft SQL Server offers.

The Bottom Line

Microsoft SQL Server wins

The enterprise database that loves Windows more than your IT department loves stability.