C# LINQ vs SQL: What's the Difference?

What are the main differences between C# LINQ and SQL?

C# LINQ (Language Integrated Query) allows you to query collections in C# using a syntax similar to SQL, but it's integrated into the language. SQL is a standard language for querying databases. LINQ can work with various data sources, while SQL is specifically for relational databases.

Can you give me an example of a LINQ query compared to a SQL query?

Sure! A SQL query to select all users might look like this: SELECT * FROM Users;. In LINQ, it would be: var users = from user in usersList select user;.

Which one is more efficient for data retrieval?

It depends on the context. SQL is optimized for database operations, while LINQ is more flexible for in-memory collections. For large datasets, SQL might be faster, but LINQ is easier to use for smaller or in-memory data.

When should I use LINQ instead of SQL?

Use LINQ when working with in-memory collections or when you want to leverage C# features. Use SQL for direct database interactions, especially with large datasets.