Is there a "best" or most popular database for standalone Java app?

Question

Is there a "best" or more popular database for standalone Java app? I'm currently writing by hand, but I would like to know what is commonly done, if there is something that is commonly done.

update: talking about small app (may grow, but its small for now)

Answer 1

I would suggest using something like SQLite with SQLiteJDBC.

It also sounds like HyperSQL and Derby (which ships with certain Java versions) are popular choices.

Answer 2

The question is: What do you understand under "best" ? My suggestion H2 which is embedded..

Answer 3

Java 6 ships with Derby (renamed JavaDB). It can be used in memory or server mode.

HyperSQL (HSQLDB) is also popular.

Answer 4

For development purposes, I often use the Hypersonic SQL Database (HSQLDB). It's fast and lightweight, and good enough to get started. For a bigger application, I'd go for Derby, which supports more options.

Answer 5

• HSQLDB is a well-established option.
• JavaDB comes with the development kit

Answer 6

The main competitors - HyperSQL (HSQLDB), JavaDB (Derby) and SQLite (not java-based) were mentioned.

There are a few other options:

• db4o - object database
• FirebirdSQL - not java-based.
• Jackrabit - a content repository (not RDBMS) supporting embedded mode.