Microsoft SQL Server 2022 vs 2025: Features, Licensing, and Pricing Comparison

Microsoft’s SQL Server 2025 represents a transformative leap in database technology, positioning itself as the premier AI-ready enterprise database platform. With groundbreaking vector data types, enhanced cloud integration, and substantial performance improvements, SQL Server 2025 builds upon the solid foundation established by SQL Server 2022 while introducing capabilities that enable modern AI-powered applications [1].

This comprehensive comparison examines the key differences between SQL Server 2022 and 2025, covering new features, removed capabilities, licensing models, and pricing structures to help organizations make informed infrastructure decisions.

New Features in SQL Server 2025

SQL Server 2025 introduces revolutionary AI capabilities that distinguish it from its predecessor. The most significant addition is native vector data type support, enabling organizations to store and manipulate vector embeddings directly within the database engine [1]. This capability includes specialized vector functions for similarity searches and machine learning operations, along with optimized vector indexing for high-performance AI workloads.

The platform integrates Microsoft Copilot directly into SQL Server Management Studio, allowing administrators to ask natural language questions and receive data-driven answers [1]. Enhanced Azure Arc integration provides seamless hybrid cloud management, while improved automatic plan correction with Trace Flag 12618 enabled by default optimizes query performance automatically [1].

Security enhancements include expanded TDS 8.0 support across SQL VSS Writer, SQL CEIP service, and PolyBase components. The database engine introduces percent-based limits for tempdb space resource governance and immutable storage support for Azure Blob Storage backups [1].

Removed and Deprecated Features

Unlike Windows Server 2025, SQL Server 2025 maintains backward compatibility with minimal feature removal. The primary changes involve optimization and modernization rather than elimination of legacy components. Enhanced vector capabilities replace several previous limitations, while automatic plan correction improvements supersede manual tuning requirements in many scenarios [1].

The focus on AI integration and cloud connectivity represents an evolution rather than replacement of existing functionality, ensuring smooth migration paths for organizations upgrading from SQL Server 2022.

Feature Comparison Tables

New Features Exclusive to SQL Server 2025

Feature CategoryFeatureDescriptionBusiness Impact
AI IntegrationVector Data TypeNative support for vector data storage with optimized binary formatEnables direct AI/ML workloads within database
AI IntegrationVector FunctionsScalar functions for vector operations in binary formatStreamlined vector manipulation and similarity searches
AI IntegrationVector IndexApproximate vector indexing for high-performance searchesDramatically improved AI query performance
AI IntegrationCopilot in SSMSNatural language querying and data analysisEnhanced administrator productivity and accessibility
PerformanceEnhanced Automatic Plan CorrectionTrace Flag 12618 enabled by default with improved regression detectionAutomatic query optimization without manual intervention
AvailabilityAsynchronous Page Request DispatchingEnabled by default for improved I/O performanceEnhanced database responsiveness under load
SecurityExpanded TDS 8.0 SupportExtended to SQL VSS Writer, SQL CEIP service, and PolyBaseComprehensive encrypted communication across components
Cloud IntegrationEnhanced Azure Arc IntegrationImproved setup and feature integration capabilitiesSimplified hybrid cloud management and monitoring

Core Capability Comparison

CapabilitySQL Server 2022SQL Server 2025Enhancement Details
AI/ML SupportBasic machine learning servicesNative vector data types and functionsBuilt-in vector storage, indexing, and similarity search
Query OptimizationManual automatic plan correctionEnhanced automatic plan correction (default)Improved regression detection and automatic remediation
Cloud IntegrationAzure connectivity availableEnhanced Azure Arc integrationStreamlined hybrid management and feature parity
Management ToolsTraditional SSMSSSMS with Copilot integrationNatural language querying and AI-assisted administration
SecurityTDS 8.0 basic supportExpanded TDS 8.0 across all componentsComprehensive encryption for all database communications
StorageStandard backup optionsImmutable Azure Blob Storage supportEnhanced data protection and compliance capabilities
Performance MonitoringStandard monitoringEnhanced diagnostic improvementsBetter visibility into performance bottlenecks
Resource ManagementFixed tempdb limitsPercent-based tempdb governanceMore flexible resource allocation and management

AI and Vector Capabilities Comparison

AI FeatureSQL Server 2022SQL Server 2025Capability Gap
Vector StorageNot availableNative vector data type with optimized binary formatComplete AI/ML enablement
Vector OperationsRequires external processingBuilt-in vector functions for similarity searchDirect in-database AI processing
Vector IndexingNot supportedApproximate vector index with performance optimizationHigh-performance AI query execution
AI IntegrationLimited ML ServicesCopilot integration with natural language queriesIntuitive AI-assisted database management
Embedding SupportExternal storage requiredNative embedding storage and manipulationSimplified AI application development
Similarity SearchApplication-level implementationDatabase-native similarity search functionsDramatically improved performance and simplicity

Detailed Licensing and Pricing Analysis

SQL Server 2025 maintains the established licensing framework while providing enhanced value through new AI capabilities. The core licensing models remain consistent between versions, with pricing adjustments reflecting the advanced feature set and market positioning.

Base License Costs Comparison

EditionSQL Server 2022SQL Server 2025 (Estimated)Price DifferencePercentage Change
Enterprise (2-core pack)$15,123$16,500 (estimated)+$1,377+9.1%
Standard (2-core pack)$3,945$4,200 (estimated)+$255+6.5%
Standard (Server)$989$1,050 (estimated)+$61+6.2%
Standard (CAL)$230$245 (estimated)+$15+6.5%
DeveloperFreeFree$00%
ExpressFreeFree$00%

Licensing Model Comparison

Core-Based Licensing

FeatureSQL Server 2022SQL Server 2025Notes
Minimum Core Requirement16 cores per server16 cores per serverUnchanged
User AccessUnlimitedUnlimitedConsistent unlimited access model
Virtualization RightsBased on editionBased on editionNo changes to virtualization licensing
Internet DeploymentRequired for public accessRequired for public accessMandatory for internet-facing applications
Azure Hybrid BenefitAvailable with Software AssuranceAvailable with Software AssuranceConsistent cloud licensing benefits

Server + CAL Licensing

ComponentSQL Server 2022SQL Server 2025Cost Impact
Server License$989$1,050 (estimated)+$61 per server
User CAL$230$245 (estimated)+$15 per user
Device CAL$230$245 (estimated)+$15 per device
Break-even Point~133 users (Standard)~135 users (Standard)Minimal change in cost optimization threshold

Total Cost of Ownership Scenarios

Small Business Deployment (25 users, 16 cores)

Licensing ModelSQL Server 2022SQL Server 2025 (Estimated)Cost Difference
Server + CAL$6,739 ($989 + $5,750 CALs)$7,175 ($1,050 + $6,125 CALs)+$436
Core-Based$7,890 (2 × $3,945)$8,400 (2 × $4,200)+$510
RecommendedServer + CALServer + CALConsistent cost optimization

Medium Enterprise Deployment (100 users, 32 cores)

Licensing ModelSQL Server 2022SQL Server 2025 (Estimated)Cost Difference
Server + CAL$23,989 ($989 + $23,000 CALs)$25,550 ($1,050 + $24,500 CALs)+$1,561
Core-Based$15,780 (4 × $3,945)$16,800 (4 × $4,200)+$1,020
RecommendedCore-BasedCore-BasedCore-based becomes more economical

Large Enterprise Deployment (500 users, 64 cores)

Licensing ModelSQL Server 2022SQL Server 2025 (Estimated)Cost Difference
Server + CAL$115,989 ($989 + $115,000 CALs)$123,550 ($1,050 + $122,500 CALs)+$7,561
Core-Based$31,560 (8 × $3,945)$33,600 (8 × $4,200)+$2,040
RecommendedCore-BasedCore-BasedSignificant cost advantage with core-based licensing

Software Assurance Benefits Comparison

BenefitSQL Server 2022SQL Server 2025Value Enhancement
Version Upgrade RightsIncludedIncludedAccess to AI capabilities represents significant value increase
Azure Hybrid BenefitAvailableAvailableEnhanced value with improved Azure Arc integration
Passive Secondary RightsDisaster recovery licensingDisaster recovery licensingUnchanged but critical for business continuity
Unlimited VirtualizationEnterprise Edition onlyEnterprise Edition onlyConsistent virtualization benefits
Training and SupportStandard benefitsStandard benefitsEnhanced by AI-assisted management capabilities

Strategic Recommendations

SQL Server 2025’s AI capabilities represent a paradigm shift that justifies the estimated 6-9% price increase for organizations planning AI/ML initiatives. The native vector data types and functions eliminate the need for external vector databases, potentially reducing total infrastructure costs despite higher licensing fees.

For organizations with existing SQL Server 2022 deployments, the upgrade decision should consider AI strategy, performance requirements, and budget constraints. The enhanced automatic plan correction and improved Azure Arc integration provide immediate operational benefits, while vector capabilities future-proof database infrastructure for AI applications.

Small businesses with limited AI requirements may find SQL Server 2022 sufficient for current needs, while enterprises planning machine learning initiatives should prioritize SQL Server 2025 to leverage native AI capabilities. The consistent licensing model ensures predictable upgrade costs and migration planning.

Organizations should evaluate their AI roadmap, current performance bottlenecks, and cloud integration requirements when choosing between versions. SQL Server 2025’s Copilot integration alone can significantly reduce administrative overhead, potentially offsetting licensing cost increases through improved operational efficiency.

The maintained backward compatibility and consistent licensing framework minimize migration risks, making SQL Server 2025 an attractive upgrade for organizations ready to embrace AI-powered database capabilities.


SQL Server 2025 represents Microsoft’s most significant database advancement, introducing native AI capabilities that transform traditional database operations. While licensing costs increase modestly (6-9%), the value proposition is compelling for organizations pursuing AI initiatives or requiring enhanced performance optimization.

The consistent licensing model between versions facilitates straightforward upgrade planning, while new AI features provide competitive advantages that justify the investment. Organizations should align their SQL Server version choice with AI strategy, performance requirements, and long-term infrastructure goals to maximize return on investment.

References

[1] Microsoft Learn. (2025, June 16). What’s new in SQL Server 2025 Preview

[2] Microsoft Learn. (2025, February 28). What’s new in SQL Server 2022

[3] Microsoft. (2025). SQL Server 2022 pricing and licensing

[4] Licenseware. (2025, June 3). Microsoft SQL Server 2025 Licensing Guide

Alex Cojocaru

Alex has been active in the software world since he started his career as an Analyst in 2011. He had various roles in software asset management, data analytics, and software development. He walked in the shoes of an analyst, auditor, advisor, and software engineer, being involved in building SAM tools, amongst other data-focused projects. In 2020, Alex co-founded Licenseware and is currently leading the company as CEO.