Unlocking the Power of Databases in Flutter
When it comes to mobile app development, storing and utilizing data is a crucial aspect of the process. This is where databases come into play, providing a structured way to store and retrieve electronic information. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of databases in Flutter, exploring the different types and how to set them up in no time.
What is a Database?
A database is a software that stores and uses electronic information in a structured manner, allowing for data persistence. Unlike caching, data is reliably stored and available to work with unless intentionally erased. Developers can use programming languages or APIs to save, read, modify, and remove data in the database, performing these actions in the background of an application, away from the view of end-users.
Types of Databases
There are numerous types of databases, but for the scope of this topic, we’ll focus on two primary categories: nonrelational databases (NoSQL) and relational databases (SQL).
Relational Databases (SQL)
Relational databases are datasets that have relationships and values linking them to each other. They consist of database tables, rows, and columns, holding information about an object. Each column holds data pertaining to a particular type, while the fields house the precise value of the attribute. A primary key is a distinctive identifier assigned to each row in a table, and foreign keys link rows from other tables.
SQL in Flutter
Let’s explore how Flutter uses SQL. sqflite is an implementation of SQLite, providing full control over the database and allowing us to write queries, relationships, and every other database function our application requires. To set up sqflite in our application, we need to add the dependency in our pubspec file and create a defined path and storage name for our database.
Another popular option is Drift, a reactive persistence library for Flutter and Dart, built on SQLite. It provides the same functions and tools needed to write structured relational database queries, reducing boilerplate code. With Drift, we can use build_runner to generate database initialization codes, making it easier to work with.
Floor: A SQLite Abstraction
Floor provides a nice SQLite abstraction for our Flutter apps, offering automatic mapping between in-memory objects and database rows, as well as full control over the database via SQL. To use Floor, we need to add the required dependencies, create an entity, and define a DAO (Data Access Object). Then, we can create the database, run the code generator, and use the generated code.
Nonrelational Databases (NoSQL)
Nonrelational databases store data in a nontabular form, using a structured document-like format. They can handle detailed information and store a wide variety of data formats. In Flutter, popular NoSQL options include Google Firebase, Objectbox, Hive, and SharedPreferences.
Firebase: Cloud-Based Storage
Firebase provides cloud-based storage, allowing us to synchronize data across multiple devices. It offers more than one option to store data, including Firebase Storage, Firebase Firestore, and the Realtime Database. Each option can be chosen based on our use case and the type of data to be stored.
Hive: Lightweight and Blazing Fast
Hive is a lightweight and blazing fast key-value database written in pure Dart. It’s easy to use and stores key-value pairs, as well as objects. To set up Hive, we simply add the dependencies and run the Flutter pub get command.
ObjectBox: Super Fast and Scalable
ObjectBox is a super fast database for storing objects locally in Flutter. It’s scalable, statically typed, and multiplatform, making it a great option for storing data.
SharedPreferences: Easy and Fast
SharedPreferences is a common way to store key-value pairs locally on our application. It’s easy to use, but not advisable for storing large chunks of data or lists.
Final Thoughts
When it comes to storing data in Flutter, we have various options to choose from. By understanding the different types of databases and their use cases, we can make informed decisions about which one to use in our applications. Whether you need to store data and provide sync across different devices or require a lightweight and blazing fast solution, there’s a database option that fits your needs.