Free tools Windows power users keep installed

One-click scans. No signup required.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Indexes can help a database find rows without scanning all the data, but each index also takes space and may add work when data changes. Keep indexes that support important queries, then assess their read benefit against write activity, index size, and operational cost using evidence from your own workload.

What does a database index do?

An index is an auxiliary data structure that stores searchable key information so the database can locate candidate rows or documents more directly. It can improve queries that match the index, but an index does not guarantee that every query will run faster: the result depends on the query, the data, and the index design.

Index options and behavior vary by database. PostgreSQL documents methods including B-tree, hash, GiST, SP-GiST, GIN, and BRIN, as well as multicolumn, partial, and covering indexes. MongoDB describes indexes as a way to find relevant documents without examining an entire collection. See the PostgreSQL index documentation and MongoDB 8.0 write-performance documentation.

Do indexes slow down writes?

They can. When data is inserted, updated, or deleted, the engine may also need to add, change, or remove corresponding index entries. The cost depends on which indexed keys the write affects and how the database implements index maintenance; simply counting indexes does not tell you the cost of a particular write pattern.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
#1 Best Overall
Elebase USB to USB C Adapter for iPhone 18 Pro Max,USBC Car Charger Adapter
  • Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
  • Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
  • Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
  • Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
  • 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
  • MongoDB 8.0: Inserts and deletes maintain keys in relevant indexes. An update may affect only a subset, depending on which indexed fields change.
  • MySQL 26.7: Indexes can add cost to inserts, updates, and deletes, even as they help some reads.
  • SQL Server: Changes to indexed columns can require updates to indexes that contain those columns; Microsoft advises restraint with indexes on heavily modified tables.

Read the engine-specific guidance in the MongoDB manual, MySQL 26.7 manual, and SQL Server index design guide.

How much storage do database indexes use?

Indexes use storage in addition to the underlying table or collection. There is no universal index-to-table size ratio established by the cited documentation: size depends on the database engine, index type, indexed keys, and data. Avoid estimating overhead as a fixed percentage without measurements for your system.

Rank #2
Anker USB-C Hub, 5-in-1 USB Hub for Laptops, 4K HDMI Multiport Adapter
  • 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
  • 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
  • Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
  • 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
  • What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.

Index width matters. SQL Server recommends keeping indexes narrow; adding many columns to a covering index can increase storage, I/O, and memory footprint. MySQL also cautions that unnecessary indexes waste space and make the optimizer spend time determining which index to use. See the SQL Server design guide and MySQL index documentation.

How do I know which indexes to keep or remove?

Start with the workload, not a generic removal list. Check query plans and the database’s index-usage information to see whether an index supports important queries. Then weigh the observed read benefit against how often writes occur, which indexed fields change, and the index’s storage and resource footprint. PostgreSQL’s index chapter covers examining index usage; MongoDB recommends evaluating whether existing indexes are actually used.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
Rank #3
Sale
Anker USB C Hub, 7in1 Multi-Port USB Adapter, 4K@60Hz USBC to HDMI Splitter
  • Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
  • Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
  • Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
  • Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
  • What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
  1. Identify important queries. Use workload evidence to find the reads whose performance matters, then inspect their plans.
  2. Check index use. Consult the engine’s usage information and verify whether candidate indexes serve those queries.
  3. Account for writes. Consider write frequency and whether inserts, updates, or deletes affect the indexed keys.
  4. Measure the footprint. Consider index width and storage, plus relevant I/O, memory, and optimizer costs.
  5. Validate changes against the workload. Test proposed additions or removals using representative queries and write activity before making production changes.

An index with little observed use may still serve an infrequent but important query, so usage evidence should be interpreted in the context of the workload rather than treated as an automatic instruction to drop it. The cited documentation does not establish a universal maintenance interval or a cross-engine list of indexes to remove.

Can creating or rebuilding an index affect production?

Yes. Index creation is an operational change, and its impact differs by database and command. For PostgreSQL 17, a standard CREATE INDEX build blocks writes to the relation until it completes. CREATE INDEX CONCURRENTLY allows normal operations to continue, but performs two scans and takes significantly longer. Those details are specific to the documented PostgreSQL 17 behavior; do not assume another engine uses the same options or trade-offs. See PostgreSQL 17: CREATE INDEX.

Rank #4
Sale
UGREEN USB to USB C Adapter Combo 4-Pack, 10Gbps USB C Converter Space Gray
  • Dual Converters, Infinite Potential:Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
  • Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
  • Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
  • Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
  • Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Support on Ko-Fi

Which trade-offs should I compare?

Decision factor What to examine
Query benefit Which actual queries the index supports, and how important those queries are.
Write activity How often data changes and whether those writes affect indexed fields.
Index footprint Index type and width, along with storage and any relevant I/O or memory cost.
Evidence of use Query plans and engine-specific usage information, interpreted against the workload.
Operational impact How the specific engine and version handle creating, rebuilding, or changing the index.

These are shared trade-off categories, not identical implementation rules. PostgreSQL, MongoDB, MySQL, and SQL Server document the general costs and benefits differently, so use the documentation and operational behavior for your actual engine and version.

Best Value
Anker USB C Hub, 5-in-1 USBC to HDMI Splitter with 4K Display
  • 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
  • Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
  • Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
  • HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
  • What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.