What is the fundamental difference between Timestamp and Datetime in SQL Server?

Timestamp vs. Datetime in SQL Server

In SQL Server, both Timestamp and Datetime data types seem capable of storing date and time. However, there is a fundamental difference between them that sets them apart.

Datetime stores dates and times that are entered or modified by the user. It is a versatile data type that provides flexibility in representing date and time values.

Timestamp, on the other hand, is an alias for the Rowversion data type. Unlike Datetime, Timestamp is not intended to store date or time directly. Instead, it is a system-generated binary value that serves as a unique identifier for each row. The value is automatically incremented whenever the row is updated, ensuring its uniqueness and integrity.

Therefore, the primary distinction lies in their purpose. Datetime captures user-provided date and time information, while Timestamp provides a unique identifier for tracking row updates. This unique characteristic makes Timestamp invaluable for detecting and handling data changes within a database system.

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