Should My MySQL Timezone Be UTC or Server/PHP Time?

Should MySQL Timezone be Set to UTC?

The decision of setting a MySQL timezone to UTC or the same as the server or PHP depends on specific requirements and preferences.

Pros of Setting Timezone to UTC:

• Ensures Consistency: UTC is a global standard and will not change due to Daylight Savings Time (DST), ensuring consistent time across locations.
• Eliminates DST Issues: By using UTC, you avoid confusing time differences caused by DST, which can simplify date handling.

Cons of Setting Timezone to UTC:

• May Not Reflect Local Time: UTC might not align with the actual time in specific locations, which can be inconvenient for users.
• Separate Time Adjustments Required: When storing and displaying timestamps, you may need to convert them to local time, adding complexity in code.

Pros of Setting Timezone to Server/PHP:

• Local Time Reflection: The timezone matches the server or PHP setting, reflecting local time and ensuring accurate display for users.
• Simplified Time Handling: This configuration eliminates the need for timezone conversion during storage and display, as timestamps are naturally stored in the local time.

Cons of Setting Timezone to Server/PHP:

• DST Considerations: DST changes can cause discrepancies in timestamps if not accounted for.
• Potential Errors: Incorrect timezone settings in the server or PHP can lead to errors in time-related calculations.

Recommendation:

The most appropriate timezone setting depends on the nature of your application and user needs. If global consistency, DST avoidance, and simplicity are paramount, setting the timezone to UTC is recommended. If local time reflection and seamless time handling are essential, aligning the timezone with the server or PHP is preferable.

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