⚖️ Comparison · Updated for 2026
MariaDB vs MySQL
Side-by-side comparison, when-to-use-each guide, and instant conversion. Reviewed for 2026.
Quick answer: MariaDB was forked from MySQL in 2009 when Oracle acquired Sun (MySQL's owner). MariaDB is open-source, drop-in compatible with MySQL for most uses. MySQL has more enterprise features (Oracle's commercial editions). For most projects in 2026, MariaDB is the default open-source choice.
Decision guide — when to use which
Use MariaDB when…
Open-source projects, Linux distributions (default in most), free hosting.
Use MySQL when…
Existing MySQL projects, Oracle ecosystem, specific commercial features.
📊 Side-by-side comparison
| Aspect | MariaDB | MySQL |
|---|---|---|
| License | GPL (always open-source) | GPL + commercial editions |
| Owned by | MariaDB Foundation | Oracle Corporation |
| Default on RHEL/Debian | MariaDB | No |
| Replication | Multi-source built in | Available |
| Storage engines | More options | MyISAM, InnoDB primary |
Frequently asked
?
Can I switch from MySQL to MariaDB?
For most applications, yes — drop-in replacement. Same protocol, same SQL syntax, same drivers. Test in staging first; some newer MySQL features (JSON_TABLE, window function specifics) may differ.
?
Why not just use PostgreSQL?
PostgreSQL is more standards-compliant and has more advanced features (better JSON, window functions, full-text search). MariaDB/MySQL has better replication for simple primary-replica setups. For new projects, PostgreSQL is increasingly the default.
Reviewed for 2026. All conversion factors and historical references verified against official sources (ISO standards, government weights & measures legislation, IEC technical specifications). Built by a UK-based qualified primary teacher and FA Level 2 coach as part of 247QuickTools' free utility-tools project. We don't sell SEO links or accept paid placements in this content.