MySQL vs CSV: Which Offers Faster Read/Write Performance for Data Storage?

My Question

Whats the advantage over read write speed when using mangodb or mysql or similar toold instead of storing db data directly in .csv file with id like lets say I store all db stuff in .csv file and get data read write on it maybe I can create multiple csv for each table

Basically I was Asking Why use MySQL over CSV ?

ChatGPT:
Using .csv files for data storage may seem simple, but databases like MongoDB and MySQL provide key performance and functionality advantages that .csv files can’t easily match. Here’s a breakdown of the key differences:

1. Speed & Performance

• Indexing: Databases can create indexes on columns, drastically improving read speeds for specific queries. CSV files require scanning the entire file.
• Concurrency: Databases handle multiple read/write operations simultaneously, whereas .csv files risk data corruption without careful file-locking strategies.
• Caching: Databases optimize queries by caching frequently accessed data, improving speed. CSV files rely on file system I/O each time.

Tip: How you can setup Super Fast MySQL Database with RAM Disk

2. Data Integrity & Consistency

• Transactions: Databases offer ACID compliance (Atomicity, Consistency, Isolation, Durability) to ensure data consistency, especially important in complex updates.
• Error Handling: Databases manage errors better, ensuring data integrity during write failures.

3. Query Power

• Advanced Queries: SQL and MongoDB queries allow complex filtering, sorting, and aggregation. With CSV files, you’d need to manually code these operations.
• Joins & Relationships: Databases efficiently link data across tables. Achieving this with multiple CSVs can get messy.

4. Scalability

• Sharding & Replication: Databases are designed for large-scale data with mechanisms to distribute and replicate data efficiently. CSV files can’t scale as smoothly.

5. Security

• User Roles & Permissions: Databases provide granular access control. CSV files are only as secure as your file system’s permissions.

6. Maintenance & Reliability

• Backups & Recovery: Databases offer built-in backup solutions and recovery tools. CSV files can be lost or corrupted easily without such mechanisms.

When Might CSVs Be Better?

• Simple Data Sets: For lightweight, static data that rarely changes, CSV files can be faster and simpler.
• Data Export/Import: CSV files are great for transferring data between systems.

Conclusion

If you’re managing data that’s dynamic, requires fast queries, or involves multiple users, a proper database like MySQL or MongoDB is far superior. CSV files are better suited for lightweight tasks or simple data storage with minimal updates.