PostgreSQL
PostgreSQL (often shortened to Postgres) is an open-source object-relational database system with more than 35 years of active development. It stores data in tables with a defined structure (columns and data types) and lets you query them efficiently using SQL. PostgreSQL is known for its reliability, extensibility, and adherence to SQL standards. It's used by companies like Apple, Instagram, Spotify, and Reddit.
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What is a relational database
Relational databases organise data into tables that are linked to each other (relations). The customers table contains names and emails, the orders table contains products and prices, and the relation between them tells us which customer placed which order. This avoids duplicate data and ensures consistency. If a customer changes their email, you only need to update it in one place and all orders automatically reference the correct record.
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Why PostgreSQL and not MySQL
Both are popular relational databases, but PostgreSQL offers more advanced features — JSONB columns for flexible data structures, full-text search, geographic queries (PostGIS), advanced indexes, and better adherence to the SQL standard. PostgreSQL is more robust for complex queries and large data volumes. MySQL may be easier to start with, but PostgreSQL is the better choice for more demanding applications that need to grow.
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PostgreSQL in modern web development
In the JavaScript and TypeScript ecosystem, PostgreSQL pairs excellently with ORM tools like Prisma or Drizzle, which let you work with the database in a type-safe way. Services like Supabase, Neon, or Vercel Postgres offer managed PostgreSQL databases that remove the burden of server administration. Thanks to JSONB columns, PostgreSQL can also serve as a partial replacement for NoSQL databases, when you need part of your data structured and part flexible.
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When you need a database
You need a database whenever your website or application works with dynamic data — user accounts, orders, a product catalogue, blog articles, reviews, or any information that changes. A static company website without logins doesn't need a database. But as soon as you add user registration, an e-shop, search, or personalised content, a database becomes an essential part of the architecture.
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Practical example
For a client's e-shop, we designed a PostgreSQL database with products, categories, orders, customers, and reviews tables. Thanks to relations, a single SQL query can show a product detail including its category, average rating from reviews, and stock availability. A JSONB column on the product holds variable attributes (colour, size, material) that differ per category. Full-text search lets customers find products even with typos.
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