When preparing for technical interviews in 2025, candidates are likely to face detailed discussions around relational databases. MySQL and PostgreSQL remain two of the most in-demand systems, widely used across industries for applications ranging from lightweight web platforms to enterprise-scale solutions.
Hiring managers often include database interview questions to gauge not just theoretical knowledge but also practical skills such as query optimization, data consistency, and handling large-scale workloads. This blog highlights some of the most relevant MySQL and PostgreSQL interview questions to help you get ready.
MySQL is popular for transactional applications, valued for its speed and simplicity.
PostgreSQL is known for advanced features, extensibility, and reliability in complex use cases.
Proficiency in both systems shows employers that you’re adaptable and capable of handling diverse technical environments.
MySQL is an open-source relational database system that uses SQL for managing and retrieving structured data. It’s widely adopted in web applications for its speed and scalability.
MyISAM: Prioritizes quick reads, lacks transaction support.
InnoDB: Default engine, supports ACID transactions, row-level locking, and foreign keys.
Indexing, partitioning, and analyzing execution plans are common techniques, alongside avoiding heavy queries that scan unnecessary data.
Views are logical representations of queries that simplify data access without physically storing results.
It supports asynchronous, semi-synchronous, and group replication to ensure high availability and scalability.
An open-source, feature-rich relational database known for its compliance with standards, extensibility, and robustness in handling complex data.
MySQL: Optimized for simpler transactional workloads.
PostgreSQL: Suitable for analytical queries and complex, large-scale data structures.
CTEs make queries more readable and support recursive operations, useful in complex data hierarchies.
It uses Multi-Version Concurrency Control (MVCC) to allow multiple transactions simultaneously without conflicts.
Extensions enhance functionality, like PostGIS for geospatial data or pg_stat_statements for performance monitoring.
MySQL: Provides JSON support but with fewer indexing options.
PostgreSQL: Offers JSONB with indexing and advanced operators for efficient queries.
Both adhere to Atomicity, Consistency, Isolation, and Durability to maintain reliable transactions.
MySQL: Provides multiple replication strategies, including group replication.
PostgreSQL: Uses streaming and logical replication, allowing fine-grained control.
They encapsulate reusable SQL logic. PostgreSQL also supports procedural languages like PL/pgSQL for more advanced functionality.
MySQL: Best for web apps needing simple queries and high-speed reads.
PostgreSQL: Ideal for enterprise systems requiring data integrity, advanced features, and analytical workloads.
Learn Core Concepts: Be confident in design, normalization, and indexing.
Practice Real Scenarios: Expect applied challenges beyond definitions.
Understand Trade-Offs: Show awareness of when to use MySQL or PostgreSQL.
Stay Updated: Review new features released in both systems for 2025.
Use Mock Interviews: Platforms like Talent Titan provide practice through structured database interview questions.
Preparation isn’t just about memorizing answers—it’s about building confidence under interview conditions. Talent Titan helps candidates prepare with curated guides, practical exercises, and realistic mock interviews that replicate actual hiring experiences.
For 2025, database expertise continues to be a vital skill for backend developers and data professionals. By reviewing these MySQL and PostgreSQL interview questions and practicing them consistently, you can demonstrate technical competence and problem-solving skills during interviews.
Leverage resources like Talent Titan to rehearse answers to tough database interview questions and set yourself apart in a competitive job market.