The answer
SQL scales vertically (bigger servers). NoSQL scales horizontally (more servers). If you need horizontal scaling, NoSQL is often better. For most apps, either works, since modern SQL databases also support horizontal scaling.
How to Choose the Right Database for Your Node.js App
How does scalability affect database choice?
More FAQs in How to Choose the Right Database for Your Node.js App
Consider data shape (relational vs document), query patterns (joins vs lookups), scalability (vertical vs horizontal), team skills, and ecosystem fit. MongoDB for JSON documents; PostgreSQL for relational data.
Because JSON documents map naturally to JavaScript objects, Mongoose provides schemas, and the ecosystem (tutorials, libraries, hosting) is mature. This makes MongoDB the default choice in the Node.js world.
For highly relational data, complex queries, and ACID transactions. PostgreSQL is an excellent, modern SQL database with JSON support, making it a strong choice for many Node.js apps with relational data.
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