What is MySQL INT Data Type?

In MySQL, the INT data type stores integer values without decimal points, offering a fixed-point solution for whole numbers. Users define columns with this type to accommodate various numeric data within a specified range. Let’s dive further into MySQL’s INT data type!

What is the syntax for MySQL’s INT?

To define a column with the INT data type in MySQL, users employ the following syntax:

column_name INT[(M)] [UNSIGNED] [ZEROFILL]

• M: Specifies the display width, affecting the visual representation without altering the stored range.
• UNSIGNED: Optionally signifies that the column accepts only non-negative values, expanding the positive range.
• ZEROFILL: Optionally pads the displayed value with zeros up to the defined width, commonly used with UNSIGNED.

Example

Consider this table creation example:

CREATE TABLE example_table (
    id INT,
    age INT UNSIGNED
);

Here, id is a signed INT column, while age is an unsigned INT column.

Storage requirements

Storage needs for INT in MySQL differ based on its size:

• INT: Occupies 4 bytes and accommodates values from -2,147,483,648 to 2,147,483,647.
• INT UNSIGNED: Also uses 4 bytes but allows values within 0 to 4,294,967,295.

Usage

The INT data type serves various purposes, including storing counts, IDs, and other numeric data without decimal precision.

Conclusion

MySQL's INT data type offers a flexible solution for storing integer values within defined ranges. Mastery of its syntax, storage considerations, and usage scenarios is crucial for effective database management and query optimization.