MariaDB to MySQL Converter - Free Online Tool 2025

Migrating from MariaDB to MySQL can be straightforward, but nuanced syntax differences and feature behaviors often cause C-level conversion roadblocks. Common challenges include deprecated functions, subtle data type differences, and platform-specific SQL behaviors—all of which can cause application downtime if overlooked. With thousands of SaaS and microservices backed by MariaDB or MySQL, easy, automated, and error-free migration is essential. AI2sql enables you to generate MySQL-specific queries directly from natural language, removing manual conversion complexity and reducing costly migration errors for developers and enterprises alike.

MariaDB to MySQL Migration Overview

MariaDB and MySQL share a common lineage, but diverge in features, storage engines, and default behaviors. Migrating involves more than a simple export/import, especially for schemas and queries relying on MariaDB-exclusive extensions. A robust MariaDB MySQL converter tool ensures accurate transfer and reduces post-migration downtime.

Key Syntax Differences: MariaDB vs MySQL

While basic queries often work interchangeably, there are important SQL syntax differences to consider:

• JSON Handling: JSON functions/columns are implemented differently.

• Sequence Support: MariaDB supports sequences; MySQL uses AUTO_INCREMENT.

• Virtual Columns: Syntax and support may vary.

• Default Values: Data type defaults (TIMESTAMP, DATETIME) can behave differently.

Data Type Mapping Guide

• TINYTEXT/ MEDIUMTEXT: Identical, but check length limits.

• JSON: MariaDB stores JSON as TEXT before 10.2.7; MySQL has true JSON type.

• GEOMETRY: Implementation details may differ for spatial types.

• BIT/BOOLEAN: MariaDB uses TINYINT(1); MySQL has BOOL alias but differs in strict modes.

For mission-critical workloads, review column types and default values for silent data truncation risks during migration.

Common Conversion Challenges

• Unsupported Features: MariaDB-only features (SEQUENCE, certain storage engines, system variables)

• JSON Differences: Functions like JSON_EXTRACT() may differ in edge behavior

• Functionality Gaps: Virtual columns or dynamic columns may require refactoring

• Permissions/Grants: Account authentication and roles syntax not always portable

• Error Codes: MariaDB and MySQL error codes and messages can differ

Skip manual conversion - Generate MySQL queries instantly with AI2sql using natural language.

Step-by-Step Migration Process

1. Analyze Schema: Identify MariaDB-specific types and features

2. Export Data: Use mysqldump or mysqlpump with compatible flags

3. Map Data Types: Adjust definitions for compatibility (e.g., SEQUENCE → AUTO_INCREMENT)

4. Adjust SQL Queries: Refactor or regenerate queries to match MySQL behavior using AI2sql MySQL Generator

5. Validate Post-Migration: Test with same queries and check for differences

AI2sql: Generate MySQL Queries from Natural Language

Why spend hours rewriting queries or debugging edge-case SQL? AI2sql interprets your plain English requests and produces fully-compatible MySQL queries—no manual conversion, no syntax headaches, and no risk of missing hidden differences. Our platform supports 15+ databases, is trusted by 50,000+ developers, and delivers enterprise-grade conversions. Learn about the AI2sql platform.

Practical MariaDB to MySQL Conversion Examples

Stored Function Example

-- MariaDB
CREATE FUNCTION add_nums(a INT, b INT) RETURNS INT
BEGIN
  RETURN a + b;
END;

-- MySQL (identical for most cases)
CREATE FUNCTION add_nums(a INT, b INT) RETURNS INT
BEGIN
  RETURN a + b;
END;

Index and Constraint Syntax

-- MariaDB
CREATE INDEX idx_name ON users (name(10));

-- MySQL
CREATE INDEX idx_name ON users (name(10));

Troubleshooting Common Errors

• Syntax Errors: Check LIMIT/OFFSET, SEQUENCE, and virtual column definitions.

• Incompatible Data Types: Adjust TINYTEXT/LONGTEXT, JSON, and spatial types.

• Permission Mismatches: Revisit GRANT/REVOKE and authentication plugin settings.

• NULL Value Issues: MySQL and MariaDB may have different default behaviors with NULL columns.

• Storage Engine Differences: Verify availability and compatibility (e.g., Aria/ColumnStore vs InnoDB).

Performance and Optimization Tips

• Review Index Usage: MySQL optimizes queries differently—test with EXPLAIN.

• Adjust Buffer Sizes: Tune innodb_buffer_pool_size and join_buffer_size after migration.

• Check Query Cache: MySQL 8.0+ has dropped query cache; adjust as needed.

• Review query plans: Re-optimize heavy queries to take advantage of MySQL optimizations.

For more deep-dive resources, view the MySQL SQL Tutorial or explore other MariaDB Migration Tools.

Skip manual conversion - Generate MySQL queries instantly with AI2sql using natural language.

Conclusion: Streamline MariaDB to MySQL Migration with AI2sql

Migrating databases should be about continuity, not complexity. By automating MariaDB to MySQL conversions with AI2sql, you not only ensure syntax correctness and compatibility but also speed up your path to production. Whether adjusting for subtle syntax, refactoring data types, or remapping legacy queries, AI2sql is the only database migration tool you need to go from intent to execution—risk-free and error-free. Try AI2sql Free - Generate MySQL Queries from Plain English and start your migration today.