Docker Volumes vs Bind Mounts: Which to Use
Originally published on DevToolHub . Use a Docker volume when the container owns the data, such as a database or a model cache. Use a bind mount when you need to edit the files on your host, such as source code or a config file. The docker volumes vs bind mounts choice also changes startup behavior and speed. It decides how easy it is to lose data, too. So it's worth testing before you pick. I…
When deciding between Docker volumes and bind mounts, consider how you plan to use the data within the container. Use a volume for data that the container generates and doesn't need to be edited manually. Volumes persist even after the container stops, and Docker takes care of their location. For example, storing database data or cache files in a volume ensures they remain accessible across container restarts.
On the other hand, use a bind mount when you need to edit files on the host machine, such as source code or configuration files. A bind mount allows the container to have write access to your host files by default. However, be cautious, as a bug or a bad command inside the container can potentially delete or modify files on your machine.
Volumes and bind mounts also differ in terms of startup behavior and speed. A named volume copies the image's files into the volume first, whereas a bind mount does not. Additionally, bind mounts may hide certain files already present in the image.
Regarding compatibility, Docker volumes are the preferred way to persist container data, while bind mounts are better suited for sharing source code and host config files. Keep in mind that the performance difference between volumes and bind mounts can be significant, especially when dealing with a large number of small files. On Docker Desktop for Mac, bind mounts may be slower by roughly a factor of five compared to volumes.
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