knex vs sequelize vs mysql vs mariadb
Node.js Database Libraries Comparison
Search packages..
1 Year
knexsequelizemysqlmariadbSimilar Packages:
What's Node.js Database Libraries?

Node.js database libraries provide developers with tools to interact with databases in a more efficient and structured manner. They abstract the complexities of database queries and connections, allowing developers to focus on application logic rather than database management. These libraries can facilitate various database operations, including CRUD (Create, Read, Update, Delete) operations, migrations, and schema management, while also offering support for different database systems. The choice of library can significantly impact the development workflow, performance, and maintainability of the application.

Package Weekly Downloads Trend
Github Stars Ranking
Stat Detail
Package
Downloads
Stars
Size
Issues
Publish
License
knex2,311,91019,726874 kB1,193a year agoMIT
sequelize1,755,15129,9172.91 MB95514 days agoMIT
mysql969,97618,385-1725 years agoMIT
mariadb109,496387688 kB249 days agoLGPL-2.1-or-later
Feature Comparison: knex vs sequelize vs mysql vs mariadb

Abstraction Level

  • knex:

    Knex offers a low to medium level of abstraction, allowing developers to write SQL queries in a more programmatic way while still providing the flexibility to drop down to raw SQL when needed. This makes it suitable for those who want control over their queries without the overhead of a full ORM.

  • sequelize:

    Sequelize provides a high level of abstraction as an ORM, allowing developers to interact with the database using JavaScript objects and methods. This simplifies database interactions but may abstract away some database-specific optimizations.

  • mysql:

    MySQL driver offers low-level access to MySQL databases, allowing developers to execute raw SQL queries directly. This is ideal for those who want complete control over their database interactions without any abstraction.

  • mariadb:

    MariaDB provides a direct driver for connecting to MariaDB databases, offering a low-level abstraction that allows developers to execute SQL commands directly. This is beneficial for those who want to leverage MariaDB-specific features without additional abstraction layers.

Query Building

  • knex:

    Knex excels in query building with its fluent interface, allowing developers to construct complex SQL queries programmatically. It supports chaining methods for SELECT, INSERT, UPDATE, and DELETE operations, making it easy to build dynamic queries.

  • sequelize:

    Sequelize provides a powerful query building interface that abstracts SQL syntax into JavaScript methods. It supports complex queries with associations and includes features like eager loading and lazy loading.

  • mysql:

    Similar to MariaDB, the MySQL driver allows for direct SQL execution. Developers have full control over their queries but must handle query construction manually, which can lead to more boilerplate code.

  • mariadb:

    MariaDB's driver allows for direct execution of SQL queries, meaning developers must write SQL manually. This can be beneficial for performance but requires more effort to manage complex queries.

Performance

  • knex:

    Knex is generally performant for most use cases, but its performance can vary depending on the complexity of the queries and the underlying database. It allows for optimization through raw queries when necessary.

  • sequelize:

    Sequelize may introduce some overhead due to its ORM nature, but it provides caching and optimization features to improve performance. However, for very complex queries, raw SQL might be more efficient.

  • mysql:

    The MySQL driver is highly optimized for performance, especially in high-traffic applications. It allows for efficient execution of raw SQL queries, which can be fine-tuned for performance.

  • mariadb:

    MariaDB is optimized for performance and can handle high-load scenarios efficiently. The direct driver access allows developers to utilize MariaDB's advanced features for performance tuning.

Learning Curve

  • knex:

    Knex has a moderate learning curve, especially for developers familiar with SQL. Its fluent interface is intuitive, but understanding its full capabilities may take some time.

  • sequelize:

    Sequelize has a steeper learning curve due to its extensive features and ORM concepts. Developers need to understand models, associations, and migrations, which can be complex for newcomers.

  • mysql:

    The MySQL driver is straightforward for those with SQL knowledge, but it requires manual query management, which can be a barrier for beginners.

  • mariadb:

    The MariaDB driver has a low learning curve for those familiar with SQL, as it requires writing raw SQL queries. However, understanding MariaDB-specific features may require additional learning.

Community and Support

  • knex:

    Knex has a strong community and is widely used in the Node.js ecosystem, providing ample resources, documentation, and community support.

  • sequelize:

    Sequelize has a robust community and is one of the most popular ORMs for Node.js, offering extensive documentation, tutorials, and community support.

  • mysql:

    MySQL has a large and well-established community with extensive documentation, resources, and support options available, making it easy to find help.

  • mariadb:

    MariaDB has a growing community and good documentation, but it may not be as extensive as MySQL's. Support is available through community forums and official documentation.

How to Choose: knex vs sequelize vs mysql vs mariadb
  • knex:

    Choose Knex if you need a flexible SQL query builder that can work with multiple database engines (PostgreSQL, MySQL, SQLite, etc.) and you prefer writing raw SQL queries with a fluent interface. It is ideal for projects that require complex queries and migrations without an ORM overhead.

  • sequelize:

    Choose Sequelize if you prefer a full-fledged ORM that provides a higher-level abstraction over database interactions. It is suitable for applications that require complex associations, migrations, and model validations, and where you want to work with JavaScript objects instead of raw SQL.

  • mysql:

    Choose MySQL if you are working with MySQL databases and need a reliable and widely-used driver. It is a good choice for applications that require robust support for MySQL's specific features and optimizations, especially in high-traffic environments.

  • mariadb:

    Choose MariaDB if you are specifically targeting MariaDB databases and need a driver that optimally supports its features. It is suitable for applications that require high performance and scalability with MariaDB's advanced capabilities like dynamic columns and virtual columns.

Similar Npm Packages to knex

knex is a SQL query builder for Node.js that provides a flexible and powerful way to interact with databases. It supports various SQL dialects and allows developers to build complex queries using a fluent API. Knex is particularly useful for projects that require raw SQL capabilities while still benefiting from a programmatic interface. However, there are several alternatives that offer different features and paradigms for database interaction. Here are a few notable ones:

  • bookshelf is an ORM (Object-Relational Mapping) library built on top of Knex. It provides a higher-level abstraction for working with databases, allowing developers to define models and relationships between them. Bookshelf is ideal for applications that require a more structured approach to data management, as it simplifies the process of defining models, handling relationships, and performing CRUD operations. If you're looking for an ORM that leverages the power of Knex while providing a more intuitive interface, Bookshelf is a great choice.

  • sequelize is another popular ORM for Node.js that supports multiple SQL dialects. It offers a rich set of features, including model validation, associations, and migrations. Sequelize is known for its comprehensive documentation and community support, making it a solid option for developers who need a feature-rich ORM. If your application requires advanced ORM capabilities and you prefer a more opinionated structure, Sequelize might be the right fit.

  • typeorm is an ORM for TypeScript and JavaScript that supports various SQL databases as well as MongoDB. It is designed to work seamlessly with TypeScript, providing decorators and a type-safe API. TypeORM is particularly useful for developers who want to leverage TypeScript's features while working with a relational database. If you're building a TypeScript application and need an ORM that integrates well with TypeScript's type system, TypeORM is an excellent choice.

To see how Knex compares with Bookshelf, Sequelize, and TypeORM, check out the comparison: Comparing bookshelf vs knex vs sequelize vs typeorm.

Similar Npm Packages to sequelize

sequelize is a promise-based Node.js ORM (Object-Relational Mapping) library that provides a powerful and flexible way to interact with relational databases such as PostgreSQL, MySQL, MariaDB, SQLite, and Microsoft SQL Server. It allows developers to define models, perform queries, and manage relationships between data in a more intuitive manner, abstracting away the complexities of raw SQL queries. Sequelize is particularly popular for its rich feature set, including support for transactions, migrations, and associations.

While Sequelize is a robust choice for ORM in Node.js applications, there are several alternatives that developers might consider:

  • bookshelf is an ORM for Node.js that is built on top of the Knex.js SQL query builder. It provides a simple and elegant way to interact with databases while supporting features like relations, virtuals, and pagination. Bookshelf is particularly well-suited for projects that require a lightweight ORM with a focus on simplicity and ease of use. If you prefer a more minimalistic approach and want to leverage Knex.js for building queries, Bookshelf is a great option.

  • objection is another ORM for Node.js that is also built on top of Knex.js. It aims to provide a more powerful and flexible alternative to Bookshelf by supporting advanced features such as eager loading, transactions, and complex queries. Objection is designed for developers who need more control over their database interactions while still benefiting from the simplicity of an ORM. If your application requires complex relationships and queries, Objection may be the right choice.

  • waterline is an ORM that is part of the Sails.js framework but can also be used independently. It provides a simple data access layer that works with various databases, including SQL and NoSQL options. Waterline abstracts the database interactions, allowing developers to work with a unified API regardless of the underlying database. If you are building an application with Sails.js or need a versatile ORM that supports multiple database types, Waterline is worth considering.

To see how Sequelize compares with Bookshelf, Objection, and Waterline, check out the comparison: Comparing bookshelf vs objection vs sequelize vs waterline.

Similar Npm Packages to mysql

mysql is a popular Node.js driver for connecting to MySQL databases. It provides a straightforward API for executing SQL queries, managing connections, and handling results. While the mysql package is widely used for relational database management, there are several alternatives that cater to different needs and preferences in the Node.js ecosystem. Here are a few notable alternatives:

  • knex is a SQL query builder for Node.js that supports multiple database systems, including MySQL, PostgreSQL, SQLite, and others. It provides a flexible and powerful API for constructing complex SQL queries programmatically. Knex is particularly useful for developers who want to write database-agnostic code while still having the capability to execute raw SQL queries when needed. Its migration and seeding features also make it a great choice for managing database schema changes in applications.

  • mongodb is a Node.js driver for MongoDB, a NoSQL database that stores data in flexible, JSON-like documents. If your application requires a schema-less design or needs to handle large volumes of unstructured data, MongoDB is an excellent choice. The MongoDB driver allows developers to interact with the database using a simple API, making it easy to perform CRUD operations and manage collections.

  • pg is a PostgreSQL client for Node.js that provides a robust interface for connecting to PostgreSQL databases. Known for its advanced features and performance, PostgreSQL is a powerful relational database system. The pg package allows developers to execute SQL queries, manage connections, and handle transactions efficiently. If your application requires the features of PostgreSQL, such as JSONB support or advanced indexing, using the pg package is a great option.

  • sequelize is an ORM (Object-Relational Mapping) library for Node.js that supports various SQL databases, including MySQL, PostgreSQL, and SQLite. Sequelize allows developers to interact with databases using JavaScript objects instead of raw SQL queries, making it easier to manage database interactions in a more abstract way. It provides features such as model validation, associations, and migrations, making it suitable for applications that require a higher level of abstraction over direct SQL queries.

To see how mysql compares with knex, mongodb, pg, and sequelize, check out the comparison: Comparing knex vs mongodb vs mysql vs pg vs sequelize.

Similar Npm Packages to mariadb

mariadb is a Node.js client for MariaDB, a popular open-source relational database management system that is a fork of MySQL. The mariadb package provides a simple and efficient way to connect to and interact with MariaDB databases from Node.js applications. It supports both promise-based and callback-based APIs, making it flexible for various coding styles. With features like connection pooling, prepared statements, and support for transactions, the mariadb package is a robust choice for developers looking to leverage MariaDB in their applications.

While mariadb is a great option for working with MariaDB databases, there are several alternatives that developers might consider:

  • knex is a SQL query builder for Node.js that supports multiple database systems, including MySQL, PostgreSQL, and SQLite. It provides a flexible and powerful API for building complex SQL queries programmatically. Knex is particularly useful for developers who want to write database-agnostic code while still having the ability to execute raw SQL queries when needed. Its migration and seeding features also make it a popular choice for managing database schemas and data.

  • mysql is a widely-used Node.js client for MySQL databases. It provides a straightforward API for connecting to MySQL servers and executing queries. While it is specifically designed for MySQL, it offers a reliable solution for developers who are working exclusively with MySQL databases. The mysql package supports both callbacks and promises, making it easy to integrate into various coding styles.

  • sequelize is a promise-based ORM (Object-Relational Mapping) library for Node.js that supports multiple SQL dialects, including MySQL, PostgreSQL, and SQLite. Sequelize allows developers to interact with databases using JavaScript objects rather than writing raw SQL queries. It provides powerful features such as model validation, associations, and migrations, making it an excellent choice for developers looking to implement a more structured approach to database interactions.

To see how mariadb compares with knex, mysql, and sequelize, check out the comparison: Comparing knex vs mariadb vs mysql vs sequelize.

README for knex

knex.js

npm version npm downloads Coverage Status Dependencies Status Gitter chat

A SQL query builder that is flexible, portable, and fun to use!

A batteries-included, multi-dialect (PostgreSQL, MySQL, CockroachDB, MSSQL, SQLite3, Oracle (including Oracle Wallet Authentication)) query builder for Node.js, featuring:

Node.js versions 12+ are supported.

You can report bugs and discuss features on the GitHub issues page or send tweets to @kibertoad.

For support and questions, join our Gitter channel.

For knex-based Object Relational Mapper, see:

  • https://github.com/Vincit/objection.js
  • https://github.com/mikro-orm/mikro-orm
  • https://bookshelfjs.org

To see the SQL that Knex will generate for a given query, you can use Knex Query Lab

Examples

We have several examples on the website. Here is the first one to get you started:

const knex = require('knex')({
  client: 'sqlite3',
  connection: {
    filename: './data.db',
  },
});

try {
  // Create a table
  await knex.schema
    .createTable('users', (table) => {
      table.increments('id');
      table.string('user_name');
    })
    // ...and another
    .createTable('accounts', (table) => {
      table.increments('id');
      table.string('account_name');
      table.integer('user_id').unsigned().references('users.id');
    });

  // Then query the table...
  const insertedRows = await knex('users').insert({ user_name: 'Tim' });

  // ...and using the insert id, insert into the other table.
  await knex('accounts').insert({
    account_name: 'knex',
    user_id: insertedRows[0],
  });

  // Query both of the rows.
  const selectedRows = await knex('users')
    .join('accounts', 'users.id', 'accounts.user_id')
    .select('users.user_name as user', 'accounts.account_name as account');

  // map over the results
  const enrichedRows = selectedRows.map((row) => ({ ...row, active: true }));

  // Finally, add a catch statement
} catch (e) {
  console.error(e);
}

TypeScript example

import { Knex, knex } from 'knex';

interface User {
  id: number;
  age: number;
  name: string;
  active: boolean;
  departmentId: number;
}

const config: Knex.Config = {
  client: 'sqlite3',
  connection: {
    filename: './data.db',
  },
};

const knexInstance = knex(config);

try {
  const users = await knex<User>('users').select('id', 'age');
} catch (err) {
  // error handling
}

Usage as ESM module

If you are launching your Node application with --experimental-modules, knex.mjs should be picked up automatically and named ESM import should work out-of-the-box. Otherwise, if you want to use named imports, you'll have to import knex like this:

import { knex } from 'knex/knex.mjs';

You can also just do the default import:

import knex from 'knex';

If you are not using TypeScript and would like the IntelliSense of your IDE to work correctly, it is recommended to set the type explicitly:

/**
 * @type {Knex}
 */
const database = knex({
  client: 'mysql',
  connection: {
    host: '127.0.0.1',
    user: 'your_database_user',
    password: 'your_database_password',
    database: 'myapp_test',
  },
});
database.migrate.latest();
npm-compare.com is an independent website designed to help developers choose the most suitable npm packages. We are not affiliated with npm, Inc or npmjs.com, the official website for the npm registry. Please note that npm is a registered trademark of npm, Inc. For more details, please refer to our Terms & Privacy.