Neon vs SQL Server

Serverless Postgres with branching meets the corporate database that loves windows and hates your budget. Here's our take.

Neon

Nice Pick

Serverless Postgres with branching. PlanetScale vibes, Postgres reality.

Pros

• Serverless Postgres
• Branching
• Generous free tier
• Scale to zero

Cons

• Newer
• Cold starts
• Smaller community

SQL Server

The corporate database that loves Windows and hates your budget.

Pros

• Excellent integration with Microsoft ecosystem (e.g., .NET, Azure)
• Strong security and compliance features out of the box
• Powerful business intelligence tools like SSRS and SSAS

Cons

• Licensing costs can be eye-watering for enterprise use
• Limited cross-platform support (primarily Windows-focused)

The Verdict

Use Neon if: You want serverless postgres and can live with newer.

Use SQL Server if: You prioritize excellent integration with microsoft ecosystem (e.g., .net, azure) over what Neon offers.

The Bottom Line

Neon wins

Serverless Postgres with branching. PlanetScale vibes, Postgres reality.