2019 _hot_: Sql Express

SQL Server 2019 Express is — it's a production-capable, feature-rich database for small workloads, learning, development, and edge devices. The 10 GB limit is the main barrier, but with compression, partitioning views, and clever design, you can push it surprisingly far.

LocalDB is :

Microsoft quietly allows you to or Azure SQL Managed Instance without changing code: sql express 2019

SQL Server 2019 Express comes in two flavors you might not know about: SQL Server 2019 Express is — it's a

With SSDs and modern hardware, Express handles surprising loads: feature-rich database for small workloads