`bind_result` vs. `get_result`: Which MySQLi Method Should I Use for Retrieving Query Results?

Choosing Between bind_result and get_result

When working with prepared statements for database queries, selecting the appropriate method to handle the result can significantly impact the efficiency and flexibility of your code. This article examines the differences between bind_result and get_result, two methods commonly used to retrieve result data.

bind_result

bind_result is ideal when precise control over variable assignment is desired. By explicitly specifying the variables to be bound to each column, it ensures that the order of variables strictly matches the structure of the returned row. This approach is advantageous when the structure of the returned row is known in advance, and the code can be tailored accordingly.

$query1 = 'SELECT id, first_name, last_name, username FROM `table` WHERE id = ?';
$id = 5;

$stmt = $mysqli->prepare($query1);
/*
    Binds variables to prepared statement

    i    corresponding variable has type integer
    d    corresponding variable has type double
    s    corresponding variable has type string
    b    corresponding variable is a blob and will be sent in packets
*/
$stmt->bind_param('i',$id);

/* execute query */
$stmt->execute();

/* Store the result (to get properties) */
$stmt->store_result();

/* Get the number of rows */
$num_of_rows = $stmt->num_rows;

/* Bind the result to variables */
$stmt->bind_result($id, $first_name, $last_name, $username);

while ($stmt->fetch()) {
    echo 'ID: '.$id.'<br>';
    echo 'First Name: '.$first_name.'<br>';
    echo 'Last Name: '.$last_name.'<br>';
    echo 'Username: '.$username.'<br><br>';
}

Pros of bind_result:

• Compatible with outdated PHP versions
• Returns separate variables

Cons of bind_result:

• Manual listing of all variables required
• Requires more code to return the row as an array
• Code must be updated when the table structure changes

get_result

get_result provides a more versatile solution for data retrieval. It automatically creates an associative/enumerated array or object containing the data from the returned row. This method is convenient when dealing with dynamic result structures or when flexibility in accessing data is essential.

$query2 = 'SELECT * FROM `table` WHERE id = ?'; 
$id = 5;

$stmt = $mysqli->prepare($query2);
/*
    Binds variables to prepared statement

    i    corresponding variable has type integer
    d    corresponding variable has type double
    s    corresponding variable has type string
    b    corresponding variable is a blob and will be sent in packets
*/
$stmt->bind_param('i',$id);

/* execute query */
$stmt->execute();

/* Get the result */
$result = $stmt->get_result();

/* Get the number of rows */
$num_of_rows = $result->num_rows;

while ($row = $result->fetch_assoc()) {
    echo 'ID: '.$row['id'].'<br>';
    echo 'First Name: '.$row['first_name'].'<br>';
    echo 'Last Name: '.$row['last_name'].'<br>';
    echo 'Username: '.$row['username'].'<br><br>';
}

Pros of get_result:

• Returns associative/enumerated array or object automatically filled with data
• Allows fetch_all() method to return all returned rows at once

Cons of get_result:

• Requires MySQL native driver (mysqlnd)

Conclusion

The choice between bind_result and get_result depends on the specific requirements of the application. bind_result provides precision and control over result data, but can be cumbersome for dynamic data structures. get_result offers flexibility and convenience, but may not be supported in older PHP versions. Understanding the advantages and limitations of each method allows developers to make informed decisions when handling query results.

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