SQL vs. Power Query – The Ultimate Comparison

On the left side, we have a veteran warrior with 37 years of data battle scars and  redundant six pack.  They call him SQL.

On the right side, there is a young challenger with transformative powers and “never say undo” attitude. He goes by the moniker Power Query.

Who is going to win this battle?!?

I have been using SQL for 25 years and Power Query since it came out in early 2012. And in this article, let me share my views on how SQL compares with Power Query. If you prefer to listen, check out the podcast episode – SQL vs. Power Query. 

Listen: SQL vs. Power Query Podcast Episode

Listen to the Podcast

SQL vs. Power Query – The Comparison

SQL

Power Query

What can you do? 

All CRUD operations (Create, Read, Update, Delete)

Only Read the data

What kind of data?

Usually single source from a database or warehouse
(ex: SQL Server)

Can access data from anywhere and combine data from multiple sources too.

How do you use it?

You need to “WRITE” queries to use SQL. 

You “BUILD” Power Queries using the UI buttons and menu options.

Where can you use it?

Works almost universally. You can use SQL with most database systems and programming languages. 

Only with Microsoft stack of products, primarily with Power BI, Excel and Fabric.

Who can use it?

By default, you need permissions / special software to use SQL.

Almost anyone can use Power Query as it comes packaged with Excel and Power BI.

How fast is it?

Built for performance and scalability. You can use SQL to access data quite efficiently.

Can become slow and tedious as your data grows. 

Resources for Learning SQL

  • SQL Basics
  • 50 SQL examples for Excel folks

Resources for Learning Power Query

  • What is Power Query and how to use it?
  • Learn Power Query in 15 minutes
  • My Power Query Essentials Course

What do you think?

Have you used both or either of these technologies? What do you think? Leave a comment with your thoughts.

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