MongoDB vs Airtable
MongoDB is a free and open-source document-oriented database program. Classified as a NoSQL database program, MongoDB uses JSON-like documents with schemas. Airtable is a cloud-based, collaborative work management platform that combines the features of a database, spreadsheet, and workflow application into one tool.
Cost:
MongoDB is free and open-source, the caviats being that you have to host it yourself or use a third-party hosting service. The time it takes to set up and manage a MongoDB instance can be costly in terms of both money and effort. Airtable has a free plan that allows for up to 1,200 records, 5 workspaces, and 2GB of file storage. The paid plans start at $10 per month and increase based on the number of features and amount of data you need.
Ease of Use:
MongoDB requires some technical expertise to set up and use, particularly if you are self-hosting. Airtable is much easier to use and does not require any technical expertise. It is designed to be used by anyone, regardless of their technical ability. Once you start getting into formula’s and automations, Airtable can become just as complex as MongoDB.
Features:
MongoDB is a document-oriented database program that uses JSON-like documents with schemas. Airtable is a cloud-based, collaborative work management platform that combines the features of a database, spreadsheet, and workflow automations into one tool. Airtable’s automations can take the form of email notifications, webhooks, or integrations with other apps and services. MongoDB have functions that allow for the manipulation of data, but nothing as comprehensive or as simple as Airtable’s automations.
Data model:
MongoDB is a document-oriented database program. This means that data is stored in documents, which are similar to JSON objects. The data in each document can be different from the data in other documents. Airtable is a relational database. This means that data is stored in tables, and each table has a predefined schema. The data in each table must conform to the schema. Airtable also allows you to connect records in one table with records in another table, which MongoDB does not support.
Performance:
MongoDB is designed for high performance. It uses an index-based search to quickly find the data you are looking for. Airtable’s performance is more limited by the number of records you have in a table. If you have a lot of records, it can take some time to load all of the data.
Security:
MongoDB offers a number of features to secure your data, including authentication, authorization, and encryption. Airtable does not offer the same level of security as MongoDB. However, it does offer password protection and the ability to restrict access to specific users.
Conclusion:
MongoDB is a free and open-source document-oriented database program. It is classified as a NoSQL database program and uses JSON-like documents with schemas. Airtable is a cloud-based, collaborative work management platform that combines the features of a database, spreadsheet, and workflow application into one tool. Airtable is much easier to use than MongoDB and does not require any technical expertise. However, MongoDB is more powerful and offers more features, including the ability to secure your data. This is why MongoDB is the better choice for businesses that need a more robust database solution. For smaller to medium businesses or individuals who just need a simple database solution, Airtable is a great choice.
