Easiest Ways to Migrate from Oracle – Database Comparison Guide
Migrating from Oracle to another database can be complex — but with the right strategy, tools, and knowledge, it can be streamlined and cost-effective. The ease of Oracle database migration depends on compatibility, tooling support, data type mapping, licensing, performance goals, and target environment. Below are the top databases considered easiest for Oracle migration.
1. PostgreSQL – The Most Popular Open-Source Alternative
PostgreSQL is widely regarded as the top Oracle alternative due to:
-
High SQL compliance and extensibility
-
Powerful features similar to Oracle (window functions, full-text search, partitioning, JSON querying)
-
Robust migration tools such as Ora2Pg and DMAP (by Newt Global)
-
Reduced cost due to open-source licensing
-
Strong developer community and ecosystem
Although schema and PL/SQL code conversion is required, PostgreSQL migration is supported by mature tools and resources.
2. Microsoft SQL Server – Enterprise-Friendly Migration
For enterprises invested in the Microsoft ecosystem:
-
Oracle SQL Developer Migration Workbench helps convert PL/SQL to T-SQL
-
Native Microsoft tools and guides simplify migration
-
Suitable for organizations already using Microsoft Azure services
3. Amazon Aurora (MySQL/PostgreSQL Compatible) – Cloud-Managed Option
Aurora offers:
-
AWS Database Migration Service (DMS) for heterogeneous migration
-
AWS Schema Conversion Tool (SCT) for automated schema restructuring
-
Managed cloud infrastructure with minimal downtime
4. Oracle Autonomous Database / OCI – Staying in the Oracle Ecosystem
For minimal migration friction:
-
Use Oracle Data Pump and built-in migration tools
-
Best for organizations modernizing within Oracle Cloud
-
Offers the highest compatibility, but does not eliminate vendor lock-in
DMAP: Streamlining Oracle to PostgreSQL Migration with Innovative Features
Why PostgreSQL Often Wins for Oracle Migration
Among these, PostgreSQL often stands out as the easiest open-source migration path with extensive tools and community support, while SQL Server and Amazon Aurora provide strong enterprise and cloud migration alternatives. Staying within Oracle cloud services offers the most seamless migration but may not reduce costs or vendor lock-in.
Choosing the easiest database to migrate to from Oracle depends on your organization’s priorities such as cost, cloud preference, licensing, and required features. PostgreSQL and Microsoft SQL Server are typically favored for their maturity in supporting Oracle migrations and robust tools. Oracle-native tools and AWS migration services further facilitate smooth transfers to cloud environments.
How Newt Global DMAP Will Help Oracle to PostgreSQL Migration:
Newt Global’s DMAP (Database Modernization Acceleration Platform) is an advanced, AI-integrated migration platform designed to streamline and simplify the complex Oracle to PostgreSQL migration process. DMAP offers automation and parallelism that reduce manual effort and shorten migration timelines by up to 80%, significantly cutting both time and costs.
Key benefits of DMAP include:
-
Comprehensive Assessment: In-depth analysis of Oracle database components and associated applications for complete visibility and zero surprises during migration.
-
Automated Conversion: Automatic conversion of 80-100% of database schema and application PL/SQL code to PostgreSQL-compatible formats, minimizing manual coding efforts.
-
Data and Schema Validation: Rigorous validation ensuring data integrity and accurate schema representation in PostgreSQL.
-
Performance and Complexity Insights: Uses Oracle AWR trends and system metrics to identify bottlenecks and optimize target PostgreSQL architecture.
-
Reduced Downtime: Optimized data migration processes with simultaneous multi-database handling enable minimal downtime during transition.
-
Security and Compliance: Integration with GenAI to enhance data security and ease regulatory compliance throughout the migration.
DMAP also provides financial insights including total cost of ownership (TCO) and return on investment (ROI) analyses, empowering organizations to make informed decisions with measurable business benefits. Its AI and machine learning capabilities, including GitHub Copilot integration, elevate developer productivity and ensure a smooth, error-free migration journey.
Overall, Newt Global DMAP empowers enterprises to achieve faster, smarter, and cost-effective migrations from Oracle to PostgreSQL while minimizing risks and operational disruptions, making it a trusted, cutting-edge solution for database modernization.
This end-to-end platform helps companies confidently modernize their database infrastructure, maximizing PostgreSQL’s open-source advantages with expert support and innovative automation.
Oracle to Azure PostgreSQL Migration | Fortune 500 Case Study
Oracle to PostgreSQL Migration – FAQs and Expert Answers
Q1: What is the easiest database to migrate from Oracle?
PostgreSQL is often considered the easiest database to migrate from Oracle, especially with the help of tools like Ora2Pg and DMAP by Newt Global. It offers strong SQL compliance, Oracle-like features, and lower costs due to its open-source nature.
Q2: How long does Oracle to PostgreSQL migration take?
The migration time depends on the database size, complexity, and application dependencies. With automation tools like Newt Global’s DMAP, organizations can reduce migration timelines by up to 80%, completing in weeks instead of months.
Q3: What tools help in Oracle to PostgreSQL migration?
Popular tools include Ora2Pg, AWS Schema Conversion Tool (SCT), Database Migration Service (DMS), and enterprise-grade platforms like Newt Global DMAP, which automates schema and code conversion with minimal downtime.
Q4: Is PostgreSQL compatible with Oracle PL/SQL code?
PostgreSQL uses PL/pgSQL, which is similar but not identical to Oracle PL/SQL. Migration requires code conversion for compatibility, which can be largely automated by tools like DMAP or EDB Migration Toolkit.
Q5: How does Newt Global DMAP simplify migration?
Newt Global DMAP automates schema, data, and code conversion, validates data integrity, optimizes performance, and provides ROI/TCO analysis — all while minimizing downtime and ensuring compliance.
Q6: Can Oracle database migration be done with zero downtime?
Zero downtime is possible in certain architectures with the right tooling and phased cutover strategies. DMAP allows near-zero downtime migration by using parallel data handling and real-time change synchronization