How to use cloud-native databases vs managed databases

Short answer

Managed databases reduce operational burden for traditional engines; cloud-native databases offer serverless scaling and global distribution.

Key differences

• Managed (RDS, Cloud SQL): familiar engines, configurable, predictable performance.
• Cloud-native (DynamoDB, Firestore, Cosmos DB): serverless, auto-scaling, built for cloud patterns.

When to use each

• Managed: existing apps, complex queries, strong consistency needs.
• Cloud-native: variable workloads, global apps, need for elastic scale.

Tips

• Managed databases support migration with minimal code changes.
• Cloud-native databases often require data model redesign.
• Hybrid approaches use both for different microservices.