Azure SQL vs. Azure Synapse vs. Cosmos DB: Choosing the Right Service

 Azure SQL vs. Azure Synapse vs. Cosmos DB: Choosing the Right Service

Introduction

Microsoft Azure offers a rich set of database and analytics services, each designed for specific workloads and use cases. Azure SQL Database, Azure Synapse Analytics, and Cosmos DB are three cornerstone services, but choosing the right one can be tricky. This blog breaks down the core differences, strengths, and best use cases to help you select the perfect service for your application.


Overview of Each Service

Azure SQL Database

Managed relational database service based on SQL Server


Supports OLTP workloads, transactional consistency


Scales vertically and with Hyperscale tier


Azure Synapse Analytics

Integrated analytics service combining data warehousing and big data analytics


Supports massively parallel processing (MPP) for large-scale queries


Integrates with Apache Spark, data lakes, and pipelines


Azure Cosmos DB

Globally distributed, multi-model NoSQL database


Supports key-value, document, graph, and column-family data models


Guarantees low latency and multiple consistency models


Comparing Features and Capabilities

Feature Azure SQL Database Azure Synapse Analytics Azure Cosmos DB

Data Model Relational Relational + Big Data Multi-model NoSQL

Scale Vertical & Hyperscale Massive parallel (MPP) Horizontal, global distribution

Query Language T-SQL T-SQL + Spark SQL SQL (subset) + APIs (MongoDB, Cassandra, Gremlin)

Consistency Strong Strong Multiple levels (Strong to Eventual)

Latency Low Medium (optimized for analytics) Milliseconds (low-latency)

Use Cases OLTP apps, transactional DBs Data warehousing, analytics, BI IoT, gaming, real-time apps, globally distributed apps


Use Case Scenarios

When to choose Azure SQL Database


When Azure Synapse Analytics is the best fit


When Cosmos DB shines


Pricing and Cost Considerations

Cost models overview


Storage vs compute trade-offs


Predictability and scaling costs


Integration and Ecosystem

Tools and services commonly used with each


Data ingestion and ETL pipelines


Integration with Azure Data Factory, Power BI, and more


Conclusion

Choosing between Azure SQL, Synapse, and Cosmos DB depends heavily on your workload type, scale needs, consistency requirements, and latency targets. Understanding these differences empowers you to architect solutions that are both efficient and cost-effective.

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Introduction to Azure SQL Database

Azure SQL & NoSQL Databases

Serverless Data Processing with Azure Functions

Automating Data Pipelines with Azure Logic Apps

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