PHP `bind_result()` vs. `get_result()`: Which Method Should I Use for Database Queries?

Bind_result vs Get_result in PHP: When to Use Each

Introduction

In PHP, both bind_result() and get_result() are used to retrieve data from a database query. While both methods serve the same purpose, they differ in their implementation and have their own advantages and disadvantages.

Bind_result()

• Purpose: Explicitly binds variables to the columns returned by a query.
• Format: Requires the explicit listing of column names in the query, and assigns returned values to variables.
• Example:

$query = 'SELECT id, first_name, last_name FROM table WHERE id = ?';
$stmt->bind_result($id, $first_name, $last_name);

Pros:

• Works with older PHP versions
• Provides separate variables for each column

Cons:

• Requires manual listing of all variables
• More complex code for returning row as an array
• Needs to be updated manually when table structure changes

Get_result()

• Purpose: Returns the query result as an associative/enumerated array or object, with columns automatically assigned to array keys/properties.
• Format: Retrieves the result and iterates over it using fetch_assoc() or fetch_object().
• Example:

$result = $stmt->get_result();
while ($row = $result->fetch_assoc()) {
    echo $row['id'] . ' ' . $row['first_name'] . ' ' . $row['last_name'];
}

Pros:

• Provides associative/enumerated arrays or objects automatically
• Allows fetch_all() to return all rows at once

Cons:

• Requires MySQL native driver (mysqlnd)

Limitations and Differences

• Bind_result() requires explicit column listing, while get_result() infers columns from the query.
• Get_result() is only available with the mysqlnd driver, while bind_result() is supported by both mysqlnd and libmysqlclient.
• Get_result() automatically handles associative arrays or objects, simplifying code.

Conclusion

The choice between bind_result() and get_result() depends on the specific requirements of the application. If separate variables are required or outdated PHP versions are used, bind_result() is a suitable option. For automated array/object handling and more streamlined code, get_result() should be used, provided mysqlnd is available.

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