What type of database to use for a user side data?

Question

I want to create a database for data that is saved and used by application user locally, I got confused between using SQL Management server or using .NET Service-based database. For example a to-do list, diaries stuff like that, which is meant for user and not for a company data or online website
Any help would be appreciated.

Answer 1

If using for yourself look at LocalDb or SQLExpress and if for sharing with others SQLExpress.

Note that SSMS is not a database but a tool to work with and manage your data.

Create your database and tables using SSMS then in Visual Studio use Entity Framework Core which by using EF Power Tools will generate all needed code to work with data no matter if Windows Forms, WPF, MAUI or web projects.

Answer 2

I use SQLite for local app databases.

Microsoft.Data.Sqlite overview

Answer 3

I would agree that SQLite is the most common solution. Unlike LocalDb, it does not require an additional process (SQLExpress). it is just a nuget package you add.

there is a sqlite extension for visual studio code:

https://marketplace.visualstudio.com/items?itemName=alexcvzz.vscode-sqlite

this will give you a tool to explore the database. there are others