Database
PostgreSQL vs MongoDB
Relational vs document database — which is right for your application?
| Dimension | PostgreSQL | MongoDB |
|---|---|---|
| Data Model | Relational (tables/rows) | Document (JSON-like) |
| Schema | Strict, enforced | Flexible, optional |
| Joins | Native, powerful | Limited ($lookup) |
| Transactions | Full ACID | Multi-document ACID (v4+) |
| Scaling | Vertical + read replicas | Horizontal sharding |
| JSON Support | JSONB (excellent) | Native |
When to Use Each
When to Use PostgreSQL
- Complex relationships between data entities
- Financial or transactional applications
- Applications with well-defined, stable schemas
- Need for complex queries and aggregations
When to Use MongoDB
- Rapidly evolving schemas during prototyping
- Content management systems
- IoT and event logging with varied data shapes
- Applications needing horizontal write scaling
Our Verdict
PostgreSQL for most applications. MongoDB when you genuinely need flexible schemas and document-oriented data.