MongoDB vs DynamoDB Real-World Performance and Scalability Compared



Explore the key differences between MongoDB and DynamoDB.
| Features | MongoDB Atlas | Amazon DynamoDB |
|---|---|---|
| Deployment | Flexible (on-premise, cloud, managed service) | AWS cloud platforms only |
| Data Model | Document-oriented (rich JSON schema) | Key-value store (simple JSON) |
| Core Strengths | Flexible schema, complex queries, transactions | Fast performance, easy scaling |
| Read and Write Speed | Scalable with sharding and clusters | Handles millions of requests per second |
| Consistency | Customizable consistency levels | Strong consistency by default |
| Scaling Method | Manual sharding for control | Automatic scaling with no management |
| Global Distribution | Global clusters with data placement control | Global tables for automatic synchronization |
| Schema Flexibility | Allows schema changes easily | Schemaless design with main key only |
| Operational Management | Self-managed or managed service options | Fully managed by AWS |
| Pricing Model | Tiered pricing based on resources | Pay-per-use pricing model |
If you want the best speed and growth, you need to compare mongodb dynamodb for your app. Think about your data and how fast you want to grow. Recent surveys say:
MongoDB is good for apps with hard queries or flexible data, like rich JSON documents.
DynamoDB is good for apps that need fast speed and steady results, especially with key-value access.
DynamoDB lets you grow fast without doing it yourself.
MongoDB lets you control growth and sharding, which helps with lots of writing.
This guide gives you clear tips and easy comparisons.
When you look at MongoDB Atlas and Amazon DynamoDB, you notice they work in different ways. MongoDB Atlas lets you pick where to run it. You can use your own servers, cloud platforms, or a managed service. DynamoDB only works on AWS cloud. So, you must use AWS for DynamoDB.
The way they store data is also different. MongoDB Atlas uses documents that look like JSON. These documents can change easily. You can add new fields or change how they look. DynamoDB uses a key-value store. You can put JSON documents in it, but they are simpler. You use tables with a main key and other details.
MongoDB Atlas is great for handling hard data problems or running tough searches. It has things like multi-document transactions and strong tools for grouping data. DynamoDB is known for being fast and always working. It gives you quick results and grows easily. DynamoDB is good for apps that need speed and are always on.
To pick between mongodb dynamodb, think about what you need. If you want more choices and control, MongoDB Atlas might be better. If you want things to be fast and easy to grow, DynamoDB may be best.
Here is a simple table that shows the main differences:
| Feature | MongoDB Atlas | Amazon DynamoDB |
|---|---|---|
| Deployment | Flexible (on-premise, cloud, managed service) | AWS cloud platforms only |
| Data Model | Document-oriented (rich JSON schema) | Key-value store (simple JSON) |
| Core Strengths | Flexible schema, complex queries, transactions | Fast performance, easy scaling |
Tip: Use this table to help you pick the right database for your app.

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When you look at mongodb dynamodb, you see they work differently with speed. DynamoDB is made for fast actions. It can handle millions of requests every second. DynamoDB supports up to 40,000 write capacity units. At its best, it can do over 20 million requests each second. This makes DynamoDB great for apps with lots of users and traffic.
MongoDB Atlas is also fast, especially when you use sharding and add more clusters. You can handle many writes and tough searches. MongoDB Atlas does not use write capacity units like DynamoDB. You make it bigger by adding more shards or nodes. This lets you control how your database grows and works with more data.
Here is a table that shows the highest speed for each database:
| Database | Write Throughput (WCUs) | Peak Throughput (Requests/Second) |
|---|---|---|
| DynamoDB | 40,000 | Over 20 million |
| MongoDB | N/A | N/A |
Note: DynamoDB uses write capacity units to measure speed. MongoDB Atlas gets faster by adding more resources, so you do not see the same numbers.
In real tests, DynamoDB is very good at simple key-value tasks. You get quick results for reading and writing. MongoDB Atlas is better for hard searches or flexible data. You can use aggregation pipelines and multi-document transactions to work with data in many ways.
Some tests show DynamoDB can have problems with indexing when there are lots of pages. You might get time-out errors if you push it too much. MongoDB Atlas does well when you add more shards, especially for short scans and lots of updates.
Latency means how quickly you get an answer from the database. Consistency means how correct your data is when you read or write. Both mongodb dynamodb give you strong choices, but they do things differently.
DynamoDB gives you strong consistency by default. You can use ACID transactions to keep your data correct, even with many updates. DynamoDB copies your data across AWS regions. This helps you get fast answers no matter where your users are.
MongoDB Atlas lets you pick your consistency level. You can choose from eventual consistency to strong consistency, based on what your app needs. MongoDB Atlas can grow across different cloud platforms. This helps you keep good speed in many places.
Tip: If you want fast and reliable data for users everywhere, DynamoDB makes it easy with built-in copying. If you want more control over consistency and growth, MongoDB Atlas lets you change your setup.
In some tests, DynamoDB had many failed actions during heavy updates. About 40% of update actions and almost 1% of read actions failed when stressed. MongoDB Atlas did well with lots of updates and short scans, especially when you added more shards.
When you choose between mongodb dynamodb, think about what your app needs. DynamoDB is best for simple, fast access and global use. MongoDB Atlas is better if you need flexible searches, control over consistency, and strong speed as you grow.

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Your database should grow as your app gets more users. Horizontal scaling means adding more machines to handle extra data and requests. MongoDB Atlas and Amazon DynamoDB both help you scale, but they do it differently.
DynamoDB makes scaling simple. It changes capacity by itself and splits data into parts. You do not have to manage this. Your app can handle more traffic without you doing anything. DynamoDB’s automatic scaling lets you build features instead of worrying about limits.
MongoDB Atlas gives you more control over scaling. You use manual sharding to spread data across nodes. You choose how to split your data and where to put it. This way gives you flexibility, but you must plan and manage sharding. If you want to adjust your database, MongoDB Atlas lets you do that.
Here is a table that shows how each database handles horizontal scaling:
| Database | Horizontal Scaling Method |
|---|---|
| DynamoDB | Automatically adjusts capacity; partitions data horizontally. |
| MongoDB | Requires manual sharding to distribute data across nodes for scalability. |
DynamoDB grows or shrinks based on how much work it has. This means your database changes size when needed. MongoDB Atlas needs you to shard data by hand, which takes more time and effort. If you want things to work by themselves, DynamoDB is a good pick. If you want more control, MongoDB Atlas is better.
Cluster size matters when you scale. DynamoDB supports up to 11 nodes, with one main and ten read copies. This setup helps with reading data. MongoDB Atlas scales with RAM. If your data fits in memory, you get faster searches. You can pick different levels to match what you need.
Your app may have users everywhere. You need your database to give fast results in all places. Global distribution means your data is in many regions, so users get quick access.
DynamoDB uses global tables. You can set up your database in many AWS regions. Data writes and reads happen anywhere, and DynamoDB keeps everything in sync. This setup gives you high availability and strong consistency. Your users get low wait times, no matter where they are.
MongoDB Atlas supports global clusters. You can put data close to your users by choosing where to store it. You control how data moves between regions. MongoDB Atlas lets you pick consistency levels, so you can balance speed and accuracy. You can use multi-document transactions and secondary indexes for complex needs.
Here is a table that shows some challenges and solutions for global distribution:
| Stakeholder | Challenges | Solutions |
|---|---|---|
| App Development | - Need for a document data model- Low latency reads- ACID transactions and secondary indexes- Global write consistency with HA | - Support for dynamic attributes- Sub-ms latency and timeline consistent reads- Strong consistency and high availability for writes |
| Cloud Operations | - Linear scalability- Ability to handle high data density- Operational ease- Troubleshooting in production | - Scale-out and scale-in read/write throughput on demand- Manage large datasets- Easy backups and scaling |
| Business Owners | - Development agility- Operational agility- Cost effectiveness | - Quick feature development- Fast test-stage-release cycles- Cost-effective end-to-end solutions |
DynamoDB’s global tables make it easy to keep data in sync across regions. You do not need to manage copying. MongoDB Atlas gives you more choices for data placement and consistency. You can make things better for your users and business.
When you compare mongodb dynamodb, you see DynamoDB is best for automatic scaling and easy global distribution. MongoDB Atlas is better if you want control over sharding and data placement. Pick the database that matches your app’s growth and global needs.
When you make an app, your data model can change. MongoDB Atlas and Amazon DynamoDB let you handle changes, but in different ways. MongoDB Atlas lets you change your schema as you need. You can set rules and update your data without stopping your app. This helps keep your data safe and neat, even when things change.
DynamoDB uses a schemaless design. You only need to set the main key. You can add new parts or change your data model anytime. You do not need to stop your app. This makes DynamoDB easy to update when your app grows. Both databases let you store different types of data, so you can change fast.
Here is a table that shows how each database handles schema changes:
| Database | Schema Flexibility Description |
|---|---|
| MongoDB | Lets you change schema and set rules, so you can adjust data as your app changes. |
| DynamoDB | Uses a schemaless design with only the main key needed, so you can update without stopping your app. |
Tip: If you want strong rules and easy updates, MongoDB Atlas gives you more control. DynamoDB makes changes easy with its simple design.
You need to search and use data in many ways. MongoDB Atlas gives you a strong query language. You can do hard searches, use pipelines, and join data from different places. You can make many kinds of indexes to help searches go faster. This helps with big searches and lots of data.
DynamoDB supports key-value searches. You can use local and global indexes, but there are limits. DynamoDB does not let you join data by itself. If you need hard searches, you might need to use other AWS tools. DynamoDB also has a 1 MB limit for query results, which can be hard for big searches.
Here are some main points to compare:
MongoDB Atlas lets you do hard searches, joins, and strong indexing.
DynamoDB is best for fast key-value searches and simple indexing.
For hard searches, MongoDB Atlas gives you more choices.
DynamoDB may need extra steps for hard searches.
When you look at mongodb dynamodb, MongoDB Atlas is better for apps that need strong searching and indexing. DynamoDB works best for simple, fast searches and easy growth.
When you pick a database, you should think about how to run it. MongoDB Atlas lets you choose from many ways. You can use your own servers, cloud providers, or a managed service. DynamoDB only works as a managed service on AWS. You do not need to handle servers or updates with DynamoDB. AWS does all the work for you.
Here is a table that shows how deployment choices change your work and costs:
| Feature/Aspect | DynamoDB | MongoDB |
|---|---|---|
| Operational Burden | AWS manages everything. You do less work. | You manage it yourself or use Atlas. |
| High Availability | Automatic failover and replication. | Replica sets and Atlas automation. |
| Deployment Flexibility | Only on AWS. | Many choices: self-hosted or cloud. |
| Pricing | Pay for what you use. | Pay for servers or Atlas tiers. |
Tip: DynamoDB is good if you want less work and easy scaling. MongoDB Atlas is better if you want more control and options.
You should think about how hard it is to run and fix your database. DynamoDB makes things easy. AWS takes care of updates, backups, and scaling. You can focus on your app instead of the database. MongoDB Atlas helps with automation, but you can also run MongoDB by yourself. This gives you more control, but you must handle updates, backups, and scaling.
Teams can have problems with both databases:
Data Consistency: You need to keep your data correct on many servers. Both MongoDB and DynamoDB can have trouble with this.
Cost Management: Costs can go up when you use more data. DynamoDB can cost a lot for apps that read often. MongoDB can use lots of memory and space.
Performance: You might see slowdowns with big workloads. DynamoDB needs more scaling, which can cost more. MongoDB can be slow with hard searches.
Support: You may need help with setup and fixing problems. MongoDB has less professional support than older databases. DynamoDB users want more choices outside AWS.
Note: Think about your team’s skills and needs before you pick. DynamoDB is easy to run but gives you fewer choices. MongoDB Atlas gives you more freedom but needs more work.
It is important to know how MongoDB Atlas and Amazon DynamoDB charge you. They use different ways to set prices, and this can change your spending.
MongoDB Atlas lets you pay for what you use. You pay for servers, clusters, support, and features. Big companies might pay from $20,000 up to $150,000. The price goes up if you add more data or need special features.
DynamoDB uses a pay-as-you-go plan. You pay only for what you use. You do not need to manage servers. This helps you plan your budget, even if your needs change.
Here is a simple table to compare:
| Aspect | MongoDB Atlas | Amazon DynamoDB |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Structure | Tiered, based on resources and features | Pay-per-use, fully managed |
| Management | May need your own team for operations | AWS handles all management |
| Typical Enterprise Cost | $20,000–$150,000+ per year | Varies by usage |
Note: DynamoDB can sometimes cost more than MongoDB Atlas in service fees. If you use MongoDB, you might need your own team, which adds to your total cost.
You can save money with both databases if you use smart ideas. Here are some ways to spend less:
Make your schema simple to use fewer resources.
Move old or unused data to save on storage.
Write good queries to use less data and time.
Watch your database with built-in tools to find waste.
Store data nearby to make fewer database calls.
Use pagination for big data sets to lower transfer fees.
Only ask for the fields you need in queries.
Keep queries in the same cloud region to avoid extra charges.
In MongoDB Atlas, use network compression to lower transfer costs.
For DynamoDB, you can:
Pick the best capacity mode for your needs.
Turn on auto-scaling to change throughput as needed.
Make your data model better to use fewer reads and writes.
Use DynamoDB Accelerator (DAX) for caching.
Choose reserved capacity for steady workloads.
Tip: Check your usage often and change your setup to fit your needs. This helps you avoid surprise costs and keeps your database working well.
MongoDB Atlas works for many big company apps. Here are some examples:
Product data management keeps all product info together. You can look at and share data easily.
Operational intelligence helps you make fast choices. It uses data from many places.
Product catalog stores lots of product details. You can change the schema as your needs change.
Scaling and application mobility lets mobile apps grow. You can add users and keep things fast.
Customer analytics helps you learn about your customers. You can collect and study data to make their experience better.
Mainframe offloading moves data from old systems. This saves money.
Real-time data integration brings data from many places. You get one view of everything.
These examples show MongoDB Atlas handles tough data and grows easily.
DynamoDB is good for jobs that need speed and always work. Many important jobs use it. Here is a table with common examples:
| Industry | Typical Scenarios |
|---|---|
| Ad Tech | User profiles, clickstreams, ad targeting |
| Retail | Shopping carts, inventory tracking, customer data |
| Banking and Finance | Transactions, fraud detection, event processing |
| Media and Entertainment | Media metadata, digital rights management |
| Gaming | Game states, player data, leaderboards |
| Software and Internet | Content metadata, ride-tracking, relationship graphs |
Banks use DynamoDB for transaction features and quick choices. It also makes tokens for safe payments. Financial services store many data types, like JSON documents. Credit unions and banks use DynamoDB for loan work. Trading companies use it for order management and routing.
When you look at mongodb dynamodb, watch out for common problems:
You can get slow speed if your data model is not good.
Costs can go up fast if you do not check usage and fix queries.
Data consistency problems can happen when you grow across regions.
You may have trouble with hard searches if your database does not support them.
You can face problems if your team does not know sharding or scaling.
Tip: Always plan your data model and check your database to stop these problems.
Picking between MongoDB and DynamoDB can be hard. You need to think about what your app needs. MongoDB Atlas gives you more choices and control. You can change how your data looks and search in many ways. DynamoDB is fast and easy to grow. It works well for apps that need quick answers and steady results. DynamoDB handles lots of users without you doing much work. MongoDB Atlas lets you manage growth and sharding. This helps if you have lots of writing or tough searches. Look at your data and how fast you want to grow. Then pick the database that fits your app best.
You learned MongoDB and DynamoDB are good at different things. MongoDB lets you change your data design easily. It helps you search complex data well. DynamoDB grows by itself and gives quick answers. It works well for busy apps. Many people like easy growth and scaling. If you want to build fast or use real-time data, MongoDB is a good choice. DynamoDB is best for serverless, mobile, or gaming jobs. Think about what your app needs. Use the checklist to pick the right database for your project.
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