SQL Database Emulator: Limited Value for Dev and Test

• Azure SQL Database previews an emulator for local development that could help reduce costs.
• It uses containers to help non-Windows developers remove the need to install and configure SQL Server for local dev/test.
• The emulator does not support some key features of the Azure SQL Database cloud service, which may limit its value.

Since May 2022, Azure SQL Database has been previewing a local emulator, designed primarily for developers who do not run the Windows OS on their device. It can help them create and test applications locally, using the latest updates and database format changes of the Azure SQL Database cloud service. However, the long preview period, continued lack of parity with the cloud service, and being limited to Docker containers may indicate that the emulator will never reach general availability. Customers should approach its use carefully and understand the limitations to avoid rework.

Azure SQL Database Overview

Azure SQL Database is a multitenant cloud service based on the latest SQL Server database engine. The service is used for stand-alone databases where each database is deployed and managed independently of other databases in the service, unlike its sibling SQL Managed Instance, a service that mimics an on-premises SQL Server instance.