Databases (Core)

PyMySQL

A pure Python MySQL driver compatible with mysql-python.

Status
Generally available
Last checked
Checked · Oct 10, 2026
License
Open source
Pricing
Free tier · from $0

What it is

PyMySQL is a pure Python MySQL client library that allows you to interact with MySQL databases using Python. It's designed to be compatible with the MySQLdb API, making it easy for developers familiar with MySQLdb to transition to PyMySQL.

PyMySQL stands out for its pure Python implementation and compatibility with the MySQLdb API, making it an ideal choice for developers who prefer a fully Pythonic solution without external dependencies.

When it fits — and when it doesn’t

A good fit for

  • Developers who need a pure Python MySQL driver for their projects.

  • Projects that require compatibility with the MySQLdb API but prefer a pure Python implementation.

  • Teams migrating from MySQLdb to PyMySQL due to its pure Python nature.

Look elsewhere if

  • Projects requiring high-performance, low-latency database access where C-based drivers are preferred.

  • Applications needing features not supported by PyMySQL, such as certain advanced SQL operations or optimizations.

Known weaknesses

Each one links to the public issue, changelog or docs page it came from, where we have one.

  1. 01

    Limited performance compared to C-based MySQL connectors

    Pure Python implementation can be slower than C extensions like mysqlclient.

  2. 02

    Smaller community and fewer contributors

    Compared to other popular MySQL connectors, PyMySQL has a smaller GitHub star count and fewer active contributors.

  3. 03

    Potential for slower development cycles due to pure Python implementation

    Pure Python libraries can be less optimized than those written in lower-level languages like C or C++.

What it does well

  • Pure Python implementation, no need for external libraries or dependencies.

  • Compatibility with the MySQLdb API.

  • Supports SSL connections and connection pooling.

Pricing

Free tier
YesOpen source — free to use
Paid from
$0
Model
Flat rate
Enterprise plan
No

Pricing not independently confirmed — check the vendor’s page.

Performance benchmarks

How Fast Is It?

Set up PyMySQL

Setup steps, common gotchas and what to check after 30 days.

Open the setup guide →
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