---
title: "Difference between code base first and database first approach."  
description: "Difference between code base first and database first approach."  
author: "Ravi Vishwakarma"  
published: 2021-09-06  
updated: 2023-06-24  
canonical: https://www.mindstick.com/forum/156731/difference-between-code-base-first-and-database-first-approach  
category: "c#"  
tags: ["c#", "ado.net", "java"]  
reading_time: 3 minutes  

---

# Difference between code base first and database first approach.

[Difference](https://www.mindstick.com/articles/157114/good-news-or-bad-news-and-the-difference-is) between [code](https://yourviews.mindstick.com/view/85458/alan-turing-the-mastermind-behind-cracking-the-enigma-code-during-world-war-ii) [base](https://www.mindstick.com/articles/12627/how-can-predictive-analytics-enhance-customer-base-and-experience) first and [database first approach](https://www.mindstick.com/forum/159843/how-to-read-tables-in-asp-dot-net-core-with-database-first-approach).

## Replies

### Reply by Aryan Kumar

The main difference between code-first and [database](https://www.mindstick.com/articles/12226/use-of-database-in-sencha-extjs-and-insert-record-from-user-form-using-ajax)-first approaches is the order in which you create your data model and database.

In **code-first**, you start by creating your data model in code. This can be done using a variety of languages, such as C#, Java, or Python. Once you have created your data model, you can use an ORM (Object Relational Mapping) tool to generate your database schema.

In **database-first**, you start by creating your database schema. This can be done using a variety of tools, such as MySQL Workbench or SQL Server Management Studio. Once you have created your database schema, you can use an ORM tool to generate your data model in code.

Here is a table that summarizes the key differences between code-first and database-first approaches:

| Feature | Code-First | Database-First |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Order of creation | Data model first, database second | Database schema first, data model second |
| Flexibility | More flexible, as you can change your data model without affecting your database | Less flexible, as you need to update your database schema if you change your data model |
| Control | More control over your data model, as you define it in code | Less control over your data model, as it is defined by your database schema |
| ORM | Requires an ORM tool to generate your database schema | Does not require an ORM tool |

drive_spreadsheetExport to Sheets

## Which approach should you use?

The best approach for you will depend on your specific project requirements. If you need a lot of flexibility in your data model, then code-first is a good option. If you need to keep your database schema consistent with your data model, then database-first is a good option.

Here are some additional considerations that may help you decide which approach to use:

- **The size of your project:** If your project is small, then either approach may be appropriate. However, if your project is large, then code-first may be a better option, as it gives you more flexibility.
- **The experience of your team:** If your team is experienced with database design, then database-first may be a better option. However, if your team is not experienced with database design, then code-first may be a better option, as it can help you to create a well-designed data model.

Ultimately, the best way to decide which approach to use is to consider your specific project requirements and the experience of your team.


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Original Source: https://www.mindstick.com/forum/156731/difference-between-code-base-first-and-database-first-approach

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