Which Database Works Best with Xamarin?

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Xamarin is a popular cross-platform development framework used to build mobile applications for Android and iOS using a single codebase in C#. One of the most important decisions in any app development process is choosing the right database. When working with Xamarin, developers have a variety of database options depending on the project’s size, complexity, and offline/online needs. So, which database works best with Xamarin?

1. SQLite – The Most Popular Choice
SQLite is widely considered the best and most commonly used database with Xamarin. It is a lightweight, serverless, and self-contained SQL database engine namibia mobile database that’s perfect for mobile environments. Xamarin offers built-in support through the sqlite-net-pcl NuGet package, which simplifies database operations with an object-relational mapping (ORM) layer.


Not ideal for large-scale data operations or cloud sync without extra setup

SQLite is ideal for apps that need to store data locally, such as note-taking apps, small inventory systems, or offline-first applications.

2. Realm – A Modern Alternative
Realm is another strong option for Xamarin developers, offering a mobile-first database with high performance and ease of use. It allows reactive data models and supports offline-first behavior with automatic sync (in paid versions).

Realm is perfect for apps that require real-time data updates, offline sync, or frequent schema changes.

3. Firebase Realtime Database / Firestore
For cloud-based applications, Firebase Realtime Database or Firestore (from Google) offer NoSQL cloud databases that work with Xamarin through RESTful APIs or third-party SDKs. These are especially helpful for apps that need real-time syncing and cross-device consistency.

No official Xamarin SDK (developers need to use REST or third-party wrappers)

Firebase is ideal for chat apps, collaboration tools, or any application that needs real-time cloud data sharing.

4. Microsoft Azure SQL and Cosmos DB
For enterprise-grade applications, Azure SQL Database and Cosmos DB provide secure, scalable, cloud-based solutions. Xamarin apps can connect to these using Azure SDKs or REST APIs, making them ideal for large-scale business applications.


Azure databases are best suited for applications that need enterprise features, cloud storage, and seamless integration with Microsoft services.