MariaDB alternatives: 3 apps ranked by verified data
Common reasons people leave MariaDB: has drifted from recent MySQL versions in some features, and several release tracks (LTS, rolling, preview) can confuse. We ranked 3 alternatives by how directly each one replaces MariaDB, then by reviews, real visits and how recently each app's facts were checked against its own website. MySQL currently ranks first.
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Show all 3 alternativesThe best MariaDB alternative for…
The highest-ranked app in this list for each need.
Best MariaDB alternative for most people
MySQLThe original upstream, with Oracle's backing and the broadest hosting support.
Best MariaDB alternative for a free option
PostgreSQLCommunity-governed like MariaDB but with richer SQL features and extensions.
Best MariaDB alternative for open source
MySQLThe original upstream, with Oracle's backing and the broadest hosting support.
Best MariaDB alternative for self-hosting
CockroachDBDistributed SQL with automatic replication, for scaling past one server.
Best MariaDB alternative for Mac
MySQLThe original upstream, with Oracle's backing and the broadest hosting support.
Best MariaDB alternative for Windows
MySQLThe original upstream, with Oracle's backing and the broadest hosting support.
Best MariaDB alternative for Linux
MySQLThe original upstream, with Oracle's backing and the broadest hosting support.
Best MariaDB alternative for working in the browser
CockroachDBDistributed SQL with automatic replication, for scaling past one server.
MariaDB alternatives: common questions
What is the best alternative to MariaDB?
MySQL ranks first right now. The original upstream, with Oracle's backing and the broadest hosting support. PostgreSQL and CockroachDB follow it in our ranking.
Is there a free alternative to MariaDB?
Yes. MySQL (open source) and PostgreSQL (open source) have a free option. Check each app's verified facts for current plan limits.
Is there an open-source alternative to MariaDB?
Yes: MySQL and PostgreSQL. MySQL and PostgreSQL can also be self-hosted.
Which MariaDB alternatives work on Linux?
MySQL and PostgreSQL run on Linux.
Why do people switch from MariaDB?
The complaints we hear most: has drifted from recent MySQL versions in some features; several release tracks (LTS, rolling, preview) can confuse; smaller extension ecosystem than PostgreSQL.
How is this list ranked?
Every app is scored with the same published formula: how directly it replaces MariaDB, reviews (weighted by verification), visits from AppBreakup, how recently its facts were checked against its own website, and reader votes.