C# LINQ vs SQL: Which is Better?

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

C# LINQ (Language Integrated Query) allows you to write queries directly in C# code, while SQL is a standard language for querying databases. LINQ is more integrated with C# and provides compile-time checking, whereas SQL is executed on the database server.

Which one is more efficient for data retrieval?

Efficiency can depend on various factors, such as the complexity of the query and the size of the data. Generally, SQL can be more efficient for large datasets since it runs directly on the database server, while LINQ may introduce some overhead.

Can I use LINQ to query a SQL database?

Yes, you can use LINQ to query a SQL database by using Entity Framework or LINQ to SQL, which allows you to write LINQ queries that are translated into SQL.

What are some advantages of using LINQ over SQL?

Some advantages of using LINQ include type safety, IntelliSense support in IDEs, and the ability to work with different data sources in a consistent way.