`bind_result()` vs. `get_result()` in MySQLi: Which Method Should You Choose?

Bind_result vs get_result: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction

When working with prepared statements in MySQL using PHP, developers have two options for retrieving query results: bind_result() and get_result(). This article delves into the purpose, implementation, and pros and cons of each method.

Usage and Implementation

bind_result()

bind_result() allows you to bind specific variables to the columns in the query result. This requires explicit listing of the columns in the query.

$query = "SELECT id, first_name, last_name, username FROM `table` WHERE id = ?";
$id = 5;

$stmt = $mysqli->prepare($query);
$stmt->bind_param('i', $id);
$stmt->execute();
$stmt->store_result();

$stmt->bind_result($id, $first_name, $last_name, $username);

get_result()

get_result() returns an object representing the query result, which can be used to fetch rows as associative or enumerated arrays or objects.

$query = "SELECT * FROM `table` WHERE id = ?";
$id = 5;

$stmt = $mysqli->prepare($query);
$stmt->bind_param('i', $id);
$stmt->execute();
$result = $stmt->get_result();

Pros and Cons

bind_result()

• Pros:

  • Works with outdated PHP versions
  • Returns separate variables

• Cons:

  • All variables must be listed manually
  • Requires more code to return the row as an array
  • Code must be updated when the table structure changes

get_result()

• Pros:

  • Returns associative/enumerated array or object
  • fetch_all() method allows for retrieval of all returned rows at once

• Cons:

  • Requires MySQL native driver (mysqlnd)

Limitations

• bind_result() requires all columns returned by the query to be explicitly listed.
• get_result() only works with MySQL native driver (mysqlnd).

Conclusion

The choice between bind_result() and get_result() depends on the specific needs of your application. bind_result() provides greater control over individual result variables, while get_result() offers convenience and flexibility in handling result rows.

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