Couchbase SQL for JSON

Learn More

Marrying Flexibility of NoSQL with Familiarity of SQL

Modern applications require agility. Data is constantly evolving—often in semi-structured formats like JSON—and developers need the flexibility to model, store, and manipulate it without predefined schemas. But at the same time, enterprises demand powerful querying capabilities, structured analytics, and integration with existing BI and reporting tools.

This is where Couchbase's SQL for JSON, also known as N1QL (pronounced "nickel"), delivers a game-changing advantage. It combines the flexibility of NoSQL JSON document stores with the power and familiarity of SQL, making it easy for teams to build modern apps, run complex queries, and generate insights—without having to abandon what they know.

Connect With Our Consultant

What is SQL for JSON?

The Techno-Business Case for Couchbase Adoption

SQL for JSON

Is Couchbase’s powerful query language that brings full-featured, ANSI-compliant SQL capabilities to data stored in JSON format. It allows users to:

The language is based on familiar SQL constructs, making it instantly accessible to any developer or analyst with a background in relational databases.

“Query NoSQL data as if it were relational, while still enjoying all the flexibility and performance benefits of a JSON document store.”

Technical Deep Dive:

How it works

Data Model

Data is stored as JSON documents in Couchbase buckets. Unlike relational databases:     

  • There are no rigid schemas
  • Fields can be deeply nested and optional
  •  Documents can represent complex objects (like arrays and sub-objects)
Query Engine

Couchbase uses a distributed query engine that

  • Compiles SQL for JSON into a query plan
  • Leverages indexes (primary, secondary, composite, array indexes)
  • Executes queries in parallel across multiple nodes
Indexing Layer

Indexes are managed separately from data nodes and support:

  • Global secondary indexes (GSI)
  • Memory-optimized indexes (MOI)
  • Array indexing for deep queries into arrays within documents
  • Adaptive indexes that automatically support multiple fields without needing multiple indexes
Cost-Based Query Optimization (CBO)

Couchbase’s query engine includes a Cost-Based Optimizer (CBO) Key components include:

  • Statistics gathering from index metadata and sample queries
  • Join order optimization for multi-join queries
  • Predicate pushdown to reduce I/O and filter early
  • Parallel execution of query stages across nodes

Developer-Friendly, Enterprise-Ready

With SQL for JSON, Couchbase offers a unified query experience that works across developers, data analysts, and BI teams. Here’s why it matters:

Data Model

Data is stored as JSON documents in Couchbase buckets. Unlike relational databases:     

  • Query, filter, and join nested JSON documents
  • Perform GROUP BY, ORDER BY, and aggregate operations
  • Use subqueries, expressions, and even window functions
  • Update, insert, and delete JSON documents using DML
Query Engine

Couchbase uses a distributed query engine that

  • Query, filter, and join nested JSON documents
  • Perform GROUP BY, ORDER BY, and aggregate operations
  • Use subqueries, expressions, and even window functions
  • Update, insert, and delete JSON documents using DML
Indexing Layer

Indexes are managed separately from data nodes and support:

  • Query, filter, and join nested JSON documents
  • Perform GROUP BY, ORDER BY, and aggregate operations
  • Use subqueries, expressions, and even window functions
  • Update, insert, and delete JSON documents using DML
Cost-Based Query Optimization (CBO)

Couchbase’s query engine includes a Cost-Based Optimizer (CBO) Key components include:

  • Query, filter, and join nested JSON documents
  • Perform GROUP BY, ORDER BY, and aggregate operations
  • Use subqueries, expressions, and even window functions
  • Update, insert, and delete JSON documents using DML

Structured Querying Meets NoSQL Agility

Couchbase’s SQL for JSON delivers a unique proposition:

  • The developer freedom of schema-less document stores
  • The power and precision of ANSI SQL
  • The enterprise readiness of global-scale databases

It unlocks the best of both worlds—giving your business the flexibility to adapt, the tools to innovate, and the power to deliver modern digital experiences at scale.

  • Keep your data flexible
  • Query it powerfully
  • Analyze it instantly