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When creating an application, there's always one question that is often asked.
Which database to use? SQL or NoSQL?
Since there are so many options in the market, finding a suitable database can be challenging. However, going with NoSQL is always better if you develop a PHP application. This blog will present NoSQL and the best NoSQL databases for PHP.
What is a NoSQL database?
NoSQL stands for Not only SQL—the significant difference between SQL Vs. NoSQL is scalability. NoSQL is not rigid like SQL databases and can store data in several forms, such as graphs, documents, fundamental values, etc. This is especially beneficial when developing digital web applications with PHP, as most applications deal with documents, fundamental values, etc.
The Popularity of NoSQL
As per the DZone survey, although relational databases are the more popular and preferred choice when we combine nonrelational data (including Graph, document-oriented, key-value, column-oriented, and others), NoSQL becomes more popular.
Now, let us briefly understand the key differences between SQL and NoSQL.
SQL vs. NoSQL: The Key Differences
| SQL | NoSQL | |
| Structure | Rigid | Flexible |
| Main goal | To store data generally | To store data with advanced lookup and queries |
| Examples | MySQL, Oracle, PostgreSQL | MongoDB, Apache, CouchDB, RedisDB |
| Data storage type | Tables with fixed rows and columns | Can store documents like JSON, graphs, and nodes |
| Scalability | Vertical scaling, which means you can add more data in a single server | Horizontal scaling means you can access more servers to add more data |
But Why use PHP with NOSQL?
There are several reasons why PHP goes well with NOSQL. Some of them are:
- Better handling capacity for non-structured data
There are two types of data - structured and unstructured data. NoSQL is better capable of handling unstructured data like social media likes, comments, etc. It's why Facebook uses the NoSQL database for its web app.
- Ease of use for developers
NoSQL databases, especially MongoDB, map the data structure for PHP and other popular languages. This allows developers to access the data in the same way that the app does. Although this seems no big deal, it saves developers time as they have to write less code, saving time and reducing bugs.
- It is fast
Non-relational databases like NoSQL are high-speed because, unlike SQL databases, where all the data is stored in fixed columns and rows, NoSQL is flexible. In SQL, you need to run several queries to fetch data. But at significant levels, adding so many numbers of queries can quickly get time-consuming.
What are some of the Best NoSQL Database for PHP?
Here, we will look at the best NoSQL databases for PHP.
1. MongoDB
One of the fastest-growing databases in the world, MongoDB is a match made in heaven for PHP. The MongoDB database has an official PHP driver called "MongoDB" that can connect to a MongoDB server, perform CRUD (Create, Read, Update, Delete) operations, and execute advanced queries.
2. Redis
Redis is the second fastest-growing database. It stores data in memory instead of traditional databases storing data on disk. This fastens its speed. Hence, it's often used for caching tools. Companies like Twitter, GitHub, and Snapchat use Redis as their database management tool. The best time to use Redis with PHP is to generate a high volume of OTPs, process heavy-duty queries, etc.
3. Apache Cassandra
Cassandra is an open-source, non-relational database with Columnar Storage Architecture. It's used to handle massive volumes of data. Every node in Apache Cassandra performs a read-and-write operation, which means the data has duplicate copies across multiple nodes, making it unique. In case your application fails or crashes, it won't lose data, and that's why one of the significant benefits of Apache Cassandra is high data availability.
4. Raven
One of the ways Raven differs from other non-relational databases in this list is ACID functionality. Generally, ACID (Atomicity, Consistency, Isolation, Durability) functionality needs to be improved in the NoSQL database, but RavenDB provides it in default mode.
For example, RavenDB has fast ACID transactions by default, providing more data consistency and integrity. So, if you still want the flexibility of a relational database system in NoSQL databases, RavenDB is your best bet.
Conclusion:
As digitalization grows, so does the amount of data. But most of this data needs to be more structured, meaning organizations must step back and rethink databases. One of the best ways to proceed is through the NOSQL database, which can store unstructured data.
Connect with Clarion Technologies, a renowned offshore software development company trusted by global brands. Our team of skilled PHP developers is here to assist you with all your NoSQL data requirements. Reach out to us today to get started.
