MariaDB vs PostgreSQL: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between MariaDB and PostgreSQL comes down to understanding what each tool does best. This comparison breaks down the key differences so you can make an informed decision based on your specific needs, not marketing claims.
Bottom line: PostgreSQL is our overall Data & Databases pick. Pick MariaDB if you need a fully free option.
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
MariaDB
Open-source relational database from MySQL creators
Best for you if:
- • You want mySQL fork, compatible
- • You want open source
PostgreSQL
Advanced open source SQL database
Best for you if:
- • You want most advanced open-source database
- • You want excellent for complex queries and JSON
| At a Glance | MariaDB | PostgreSQL |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | FreeFree tier available | FreeFree tier available |
Best For | Data & Databases | Data & Databases |
Rating | 4.4/5 | 4.5/5 |
Free plan | Yes | Yes |
Choose MariaDB or PostgreSQL?
Choose MariaDB if
Open-source relational database from MySQL creators
- You want mySQL fork, compatible
- You want open source
Choose PostgreSQL if
Advanced open source SQL database
- You want most advanced open-source database
- You want excellent for complex queries and JSON
| Feature | MariaDB | PostgreSQL |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Free |
| User Rating | ★4.4/5 226 reviews | ★4.5/5 1,094 reviews |
| Categories | Data & DatabasesManaged Databases | Data & Databases |
In-Depth Analysis
MariaDB
Open-source relational database from MySQL creators
MariaDB's pricing is very generous, offering a fully-featured Community edition for free.
Watch out
SkySQL storage costs beyond base not specified
Strengths
- +MySQL fork, compatible
- +Open source
- +Active development
- +Good performance
- +Enterprise features free
Weaknesses
- -Diverging from MySQL
- -Smaller ecosystem
- -Some tools MySQL-only
- -Documentation gaps
- -Less cloud support
Key features
PostgreSQL
Advanced open source SQL database
PostgreSQL's pricing, being entirely free and open source, is exceptionally generous and fair compared to any commercial database solution.
Strengths
- +Most advanced open-source database
- +Excellent for complex queries and JSON
- +Strong data integrity and ACID compliance
- +Highly extensible with extensions
- +Large community and ecosystem
Weaknesses
- -Can be complex to tune for performance
- -Vertical scaling more limited than NoSQL
- -Replication setup requires expertise
- -Memory-intensive for large datasets
- -Less suitable for simple key-value use cases
Key features
Pricing: MariaDB vs PostgreSQL
| Plan | MariaDB | PostgreSQL |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | Free Community | $0 Free |
| Tier 2 | $65 month SkySQL | N/A |
Pricing verified from each vendor's public pricing page. Compare in detail on MariaDB pricing and PostgreSQL pricing.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are free. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: MariaDB
Want the highest-rated option?
MariaDB: 4.4/5 (226 reviews). PostgreSQL: 4.5/5 (1,094 reviews).
Go with: PostgreSQL
Value user reviews?
MariaDB: 226 reviews (4.4/5). PostgreSQL: 1,094 reviews (4.5/5).
Go with: PostgreSQL
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Both are free. Pricing won't help you decide here.
What's your use case?
Both are data & databases tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
PostgreSQL is rated higher: 4.5/5 vs 4.4/5.
Key Takeaways
PostgreSQL
- Higher user rating: 4.5/5 vs 4.4/5
- Larger review base (1,094 reviews)
- Completely free
- Our pick for this comparison
MariaDB
- Choose if you want open-source relational database from MySQL creators
The Bottom Line
PostgreSQL is our overall Data & Databases pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is MariaDB or PostgreSQL better?
PostgreSQL is rated in our evaluation. Both are free.
What are MariaDB and PostgreSQL used for?
MariaDB: Open-source relational database from MySQL creators. PostgreSQL: Advanced open source SQL database.
What does MariaDB cost vs PostgreSQL?
MariaDB is completely free. PostgreSQL is completely free. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.