So is it better to store enumerated types in a database as a string/varchar or integer? Well it depends, but in general as a string is your best bet. In this post I explore the pros and cons of each. Lists verse Enums Before we get to that let’s first be clear that I’m talking about enums here, not lists. Let me explain the difference. For example let’s say to have a list of a available weight units: pounds, kilograms, grams, short tons, metric tons, long tons, stones, ounces, and etcetera. You might be able to design your database so that the list of possible weight units is in a table. Your application ...