Looking for guidance on embedded .NET database (such as db4o, NHibernate, or RavenDB)

Question

I have an object model that I want to store using an embedded database. I have so far been looking at db4o, NHibernate to SQLCE (w/ linq), and RavenDB. This would be used in a desktop C# application.

The key features I am looking to leverage are: Linq or similar for queries (no SQL or HQL), Embedded data engine, pocos, poco first model, no install (no registry or similar)

Can any one suggest one? Are the three I am looking at the best choices? Are there other options? Of the three, can anyone recommend one over the other?

Thanks

Answer 1

Well the three suggested databases are very different in their nature. SQLCE with Hibernate as RDBMS with a ORM, db4o as object database and RavenDB as document database. Each of them has its strengths.

SQL CE & NHibernate-Combo The good:

• Extremely good support in tooling, the knowledge and a big community is there
• Easy to upgrage to MS SQL servers
• Extrem good reporting support
• The power of SQL

The bad:

• Needs mapping
• The mapping between the OO and relational world is not easy and can lead to issues with complex models.

RavenDB

The good:

• Doesn't need any mapping
• Easy to use
• Powerful indexing
• JSON & HTTP access

The bad:

• If your domain doesn't fit to a document-oriented approach, it will be quite painful
• It does not support the .NET Framework Client Profile (which is of particular importance as the OP's question is concerning embedded databases)

db4o

The good:

• Doesn't need any mapping
• Easy to use
• The storage model is close the object-model. This also works for very complex models.
-

The bad:

• Tooling support is weak.

Afaik all three support LINQ and POCO-first approach. However since NHibernate & SQL CE still need tons of mapping its not as friction free as it could be.

I think if your focus is on POCO first, LINQ-support, ebedded usage and easy to use, I would try RaveDB or db4o. If your focus is on 'safety', community-knowledge, tool-support and reporting I would go with NHibernate and SQL CE.

Answer 2

Firebird is a terrific embedded database which has long supported all the modern features of an enterprise database:

• ANSI SQL
• ACID
• Stored procedures
• Triggers

You can get the .NET provider (last updated May 24th according to the site) and it supports Entity Framework and Linq.