MySQL Data Type Reference
A searchable reference of MySQL data types - numeric, string, date/time, JSON, and spatial - with ranges and common use cases.
Search or browse MySQL's data types by category - numeric, string, date/time, JSON, and spatial - with ranges and typical use cases for each.
For the equivalent reference on a different database, see the PostgreSQL Data Type Reference or SQL Server Data Type Reference.
What Is This Reference?
A searchable list of MySQL's built-in column data types, grouped by category, each with its approximate storage range and a typical use case - useful when choosing the right type for a new column.
Why Use This Tool?
MySQL has several similarly-named types with real differences (like VARCHAR vs TEXT, or the various integer sizes) that affect storage size and behavior. This reference makes the practical difference clear at a glance.
How to Use It
- Search for a type name or keyword (e.g. "integer" or "date").
- Review the type's range/limit and a common use case.
Limitations
This covers commonly-used MySQL types with practical guidance - for exhaustive edge-case behavior of a specific type, MySQL's own reference manual remains authoritative.