Best In-Memory Databases

What are In-Memory Databases?

In-memory databases (IMDBs), sometimes called in-memory data stores, are database systems that store, read, write, and access data in random access memory (RAM) instead of read only memory (ROM). IMDBs use RAM to quickly retrieve data by constantly making updated replicas of data records. IMBDs are defined by the location they keep data, not necessarily a type of data structuring As a result, both relational databases and non-relational databases can use in-memory database management systems.

IMDBs are an increasingly popular alternative to databases using traditional memory storage solutions like hard disk drives (HDDs) or solid state drives (SSDs). By storing data in RAM, IMBDs functionally avoid using the disk-based components in storage. This means that IMDBs can significantly reduce access response times, efficiently handle large traffic spikes, and scale to storage needs in real time. Compared to other database solutions, IMDBs can better support SQL, which generally performs better when it can utilize available volatile memory. These factors make IMDBs attractive options for business intelligence analysts, businesses with high internet traffic, and developers that need real-time caching.

In-Memory Databases vs. Embedded Databases

IMDBs are commonly conflated with embedded databases, but they are not strictly the same. IMDBs are defined by their usage of RAM for storage, but any database that is directly built into an application is considered an embedded database.

Embedded databases are useful for applications or programs that need to access stored data exceptionally fast, usually related to industry- or product-specific features and considerations. For example, many tax software products use embedded database systems to quickly access relevant information such as exemption calculations or previous year data. For these kinds of data access needs, an embedded database system may be a better choice than a standalone in-memory database.

Embedded databases typically use secondary memory for storage, but this isn’t always the case. An embedded database can also be an in-memory database, and vice versa. As such, each database system can utilize techniques typically found in the other.

In-Memory Database Features

The most common In-Memory Databases features are:

• Data recovery
• Support for big data and streaming data
• Real-time data ingest
• Real-time analytics
• Visualization tools
• High-speed transactions
• Data versioning and history management
• FIle management and monitoring
• Job and queue management
• Fault tolerance
• Machine learning features and support
• Deployment training and development
• Scalability
• I/O acceleration
• Automated database integration
• Automated data migration
• Third party integration

In-Memory Databases Comparison

When choosing the best in-memory database for you, consider the following:

Integration vs. standalone: Depending on your current workflow, you’ll need to consider whether you want to purchase a standalone IMDB product, or if you want one that integrates with your current architecture. If you have an existing data management network, you will find that several vendors such as AWS offer connectors to make IMDB inclusion seamless and efficient. However, some vendors only offer IMDB as part of a larger service package, so these might be better for newer businesses or businesses looking to switch large parts of their workflows.

Open-source vs. managed: One of the major factors in choosing the best IMDB for you is determining whether you want an open-source or managed IMDB product. Open-source IMDBs are more flexible than their managed counterparts, and they are generally less expensive. However, managed IMDB vendors handle server uptime and general maintenance on behalf of the client, meaning that users will not need to manually address updating or troubleshooting.

Backup options: Because IMBDs store data in volatile storage, a process or server failure can result in lost data if appropriate backup solutions are not considered. Many IMBDs make version snapshots or operation logs that allow for a fairly quick recovery, but if data security is a primary concern, consider using an additional storage system. Most IMBDs include ways to automate data backup to an HDD or SSD, while a few can sync with cloud-based storage as well.

Pricing Information

There are many free in-memory databases, which tend to be open-source or significantly restricted versions of a vendor’s paid services. Pricing for paid services vary based on the amount of data stored, data security features, and other concerns. Contact a vendor to create an appropriate pricing model. Many vendors offer free trials or demonstrations of their product.