MySQL clustered index vs PostgreSQL heap explained

The author examines how MySQL and PostgreSQL handle table storage and indexing, contrasting MySQL's clustered index implementation with PostgreSQL's heap-based storage. The comparison demonstrates that clustering a MySQL table by a composite primary key like client ID significantly speeds up multi-row queries at the cost of slower inserts and increased page splits, whereas PostgreSQL relies on arrival-order heaps, covering indexes, or one-time cluster commands. Open article →