MySql 5.7 VS 8.0

MySQL 5.7 vs MySQL 8.0: Which One to Choose? A Comprehensive Comparison of Performance, Security, Features, and Compatibility.

Kai Ashkenazy
3 min readFeb 22, 2023
MySql 5.7 VS 8.0
MySql 5.7 VS 8.0

MySQL is one of the most widely used open-source relational database management systems in the world. Its popularity stems from its ease of use, flexibility, and scalability. The latest two versions of MySQL are MySQL 5.7 and MySQL 8.0. While both versions are excellent, they do have some differences that may be important to consider when choosing between them.

  1. Performance:

MySQL 8.0 has shown significant improvements in performance when compared to MySQL 5.7. MySQL 8.0 includes many performance enhancements, including better thread utilization and faster query execution. The new version also introduces a new data dictionary that helps to reduce overhead and improve performance.

Because preformance is also so interesting the next few points deep dive into some details:

  • Improved Thread Utilization: MySQL 8.0 has improved thread utilization, which means it can handle more concurrent connections and execute more queries in parallel. This feature is particularly beneficial for applications that require high concurrency and throughput.
  • Faster Query Execution: MySQL 8.0 includes several optimizations that improve query execution speed. For example, the new version has a faster hash join algorithm, which is beneficial for complex join queries. Additionally, MySQL 8.0 has introduced a new query execution engine, called “Cost-Based Optimizer,” which can choose the best execution plan for each query based on its characteristics and statistics.
  • InnoDB Improvements: InnoDB is the default storage engine in MySQL, and MySQL 8.0 has several improvements for InnoDB. For example, MySQL 8.0 has introduced instant add column, which allows users to add a new column to a table without locking the entire table. Additionally, InnoDB now supports histograms, which are useful for improving query execution plans.
MySql 5.7 vs 8.0 Preformance
You got to love preformance

2. Security:

Security has become a critical concern in recent years, and MySQL 8.0 provides several new security features that make it a more secure choice than its predecessor. MySQL 8.0 provides support for password expiration and password complexity requirements, making it easier to maintain secure user accounts. MySQL 8.0 also has improved authentication plugins and supports encrypted connections by default.

3. JSON Support:

MySQL 8.0 has enhanced JSON support, providing better integration with applications that use JSON data. This feature allows users to store and query JSON data directly in the database without the need for a third-party plugin. MySQL 5.7 has support for JSON, but it is not as robust as the support in MySQL 8.0.

4. Spatial Data Types:

MySQL 8.0 has added support for spatial data types, allowing users to store and query geographic data natively in the database. This feature is not available in MySQL 5.7.

5. Compatibility:

MySQL 8.0 has several compatibility issues that may require users to modify their existing applications. For example, MySQL 8.0 has removed support for some old authentication methods and requires a minimum password length of eight characters. Users may need to update their applications to support these changes.

Conclusion:

MySQL 8.0 is the latest version of MySQL, and it offers significant improvements over MySQL 5.7. It provides better performance, improved security, and enhanced support for JSON and spatial data types. However, it does have some compatibility issues that may require users to modify their existing applications. Ultimately, the choice between MySQL 5.7 and MySQL 8.0 will depend on the specific needs of the user and the requirements of their application.

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Kai Ashkenazy

Teach Bishop 🐱‍🐉 | Software Engineer Ninja🐱‍👤| Entrepreneur & Investor 😎