TSQL Boolean Comparison Syntax

Question

In TSQL is it proper to use != or should one always use <> when doing Boolean comparisons? Is there any difference in performance between the two?

possible duplicate of [Should I use != or <> for not equal in TSQL?](http://stackoverflow.com/questions/723195/should-i-use-or-for-not-equal-in-tsql) — davmos, Apr 10 '14 at 11:20

score 2 · Accepted Answer · answered Jan 29 '14 at 20:37

No difference just like @marc_s said but if do put it in into SQL server it will just convert it to <>

Just execute the following 2 statements,

SELECT *
FROM sys.databases
WHERE database_id != 1


SELECT *
FROM sys.databases
WHERE database_id <> 1

you will see in Actual execute plan both queries will look like this, and both have same execution plans

SELECT * FROM [sys].[databases] WHERE [database_id]<>@1

score 0 · Answer 2 · answered Jan 29 '14 at 22:00

0

There is absolutely no difference in using != OR <> OPERATORS. In terms of performance, you will see no change. I use <> just to keep me aware of mistake.

answered Jan 29 '14 at 22:00

Maverick

1,167
1
8
16

TSQL Boolean Comparison Syntax

2 Answers2