What is the best local-database solution for WPF applications?

Question

What is currently the best solution for WPF applications which are meant to be used on one computer where various users log into them and use t

Answer 1

SQL Server Compact edition is my choice because of the following benefits:

• A small runtime library that you can distribute with your app
• Compatible with Linq to Sql (search "SqlMetal.exe")
• Integrated design experience with Visual Studio 2008

It's a nice all rounder as a lightweight solution for a .NET app.

http://www.microsoft.com/Sqlserver/2008/en/us/compact.aspx

Answer 2

SQL Server Compact edition is also an option - http://www.microsoft.com/Sqlserver/2005/en/us/compact.aspx

Deployment is pretty easy using ClickOnce or by copying the engine dlls to the application directory.

Answer 3

I would choose SQLite. You can get the ADO.NET Compatible driver here:

System.Data.SQLite

Answer 4

MDF does seem to be the most flexible solution but user need to have SQL server express installed to use it.

How do you plan on executing CRUD processes? If you are wanting to use Linq to SQL you are kinda limited offically it only supports SQL 2005, Sql 2008 and Sql Compact.

Also, does the application need to be disconnect, partially, fully connected to the internet? That may put some weight on your decision.

IMO, I would start with SQL Server Compact edition and if that was too limiting move to sql server express. (.MDF)

Answer 5

I'd say SQLite. It's incredibly light-weight and easy to use, and the API is fine. You could always use DbLinq as ORM.