ORM vs Stored Procedures vs Raw SQL: Which Should You Use?

When developing a .NET application that interacts with a database, you have several options for managing database operations: ORM (Object-Relational Mapping), Stored Procedures, and Raw Queries. Each approach has its own advantages and disadvantages, and the choice depends on factors like project requirements, team expertise, performance needs, and maintainability. Below is a detailed comparison of these three approaches:

1. ORM (Object-Relational Mapping)

Tools like Entity Framework (EF) Core, Dapper Services, NHibernate are called ORM’s which map the database tables to .NET objects, allowing the developers to use the database using object-oriented programming.The core idea behind ORM is to map database tables to .NET classes and rows to objects.

? ADVANTAGES

• Less Verbosity : Reduces boilerplate code by automating CRUD operations and database schema management
• Database Compatability : ORM’s often support multiple databases, making it easier to switch databases whenever needed.
• LINQ Support : Allows writing queries in C# using LINQ which is more easier for developers
• Maintainability : Easier to refactor and maintain code as database logic is integrated into application.
• Migrations: Tools like EF Core provide migration support for managing database schema changes.

? DISADVANTAGES

• Performance : Since usage of ORM requires conversion of LINQ’s to raw queries or stored procedures it requires more time.
• Complex Queries: May struggle with highly complex queries or database-specific optimizations.
• Learning Curve: Requires understanding of the ORM framework and its conventions.
• Less Control: Developers have less control over the generated SQL, which can lead to inefficiency

?? WHEN TO USE ?

• ORM’s can be used for rapid software development.
• Projects having simple to moderate database integration.
• Query customization is not a priority.

2. Stored Procedures

A stored procedure is a group of SQL statements that are created and stored in a database management system, allowing multiple users and programs to share and reuse the procedure The core idea behind ORM is to map database tables to .NET classes and rows to objects.

? ADVANTAGES

• Performance: Precompiled and optimized by the database, leading to faster execution.
• Security: Reduces SQL injection risks since input parameters are strongly typed.
• Separation of Concerns: Database logic is centralized in the database, making it easier to manage for DBAs.
• Reusability: Can be reused across multiple applications and modules whenever and wherever required.
• Complex Logic: Ideal for complex business logic that requires multiple SQL statements or transactions.

? DISADVANTAGES

• Maintainability: Changes require updating the database, which can be harder to version control and deploy.
• Database Dependency: Tightly coupled to the database, making it harder to switch databases (without changing the procedures code).
• Development Overhead: Requires knowledge of SQL and database-specific syntax to create an efficient and optimized stored procedure .

?? WHEN TO USE ?

• Stored Procedures are used for performance-critical applications.
• When large queries and data is needed to be dealt from database.
• When project maintenance has a dedicated database administrator(DBA’s)

3. Raw Queries

Raw queries in a .NET project typically involve using SQL commands directly within the application to interact with the database.? These queries are executed through ADO.NET or Entity Framework methods, allowing developers to perform operations like data retrieval, insertion, updates, or deletion.

? ADVANTAGES

• Full Control : Developers have complete control over the SQL being executed, allowing for fine-tuning and optimization.
• Performance:Raw queries can be highly optimized for specific use cases, leading to better performance compared to ORMs.
• Database Specific: Allows the use of advanced SQL features (e.g., window functions, recursive queries) that may not be supported by ORMs.
• Simple to use:For small projects or scripts, raw queries can be quicker to implement than setting up an ORM or stored procedures.

? DISADVANTAGES

• Maintainability: Heavily dependent to the database schema, making it harder to switch databases.
• Verbose to write: Requires more boilerplate code (e.g., opening/closing connections, handling exceptions) compared to ORMs.
• Security Risks: Prone to SQL injection if not handled properly (e.g., using parameterized queries).

?? WHEN TO USE ?

• Applications where fine-grained control over SQL is required.
• Applications that use Database-specific features that are not supported by ORMs.
• Legacy systems that already use raw queries extensively.

Conclusion

Each approach has its place in .NET development:

• Use ORM for general application development when maintainability is key.
• Use Stored Procedures when performance and security are primary concerns.
• Use Raw SQL when you need full control over queries and performance tuning.

Choosing the right method depends on your project requirements, team expertise, and scalability needs. What’s your preferred approach? Let’s discuss in the comments! ??