Which method of data retrieval — using ORM or writing pure SQL queries — is usually faster?

Pure SQL queries are usually executed faster than queries through ORM. ORM (Object-Relational Mapping) adds an additional layer of abstraction that simplifies working with the database but generates more complex or redundant queries, which can reduce performance.

For example, ORM might perform multiple queries instead of one optimal query, or create joins that are not needed. When writing pure SQL, the developer controls the query structure and can optimize it for a specific task.

However, the speed difference is often negligible for most applications, and the choice between ORM and SQL depends on development convenience and code maintenance.