Skip to main content
cancel
Turn on suggestions
Auto-suggest helps you quickly narrow down your search results by suggesting possible matches as you type.
Showing results for 
Search instead for 
Did you mean: 

Get Fabric Certified for FREE during Fabric Data Days. Don't miss your chance! Request now

Reply
nkasdali
Microsoft Employee
Microsoft Employee

Import Vs DirectQuery Performance

‎10-08-2018 06:55 AM

Hi All,

 

I think this question has come back quite a few times, but I have found no clear answer to my question.

I know the difference and the limitations of each mode, I just want to find the most efficient for my use.

Starting from the idea that I have a report that is used by hundreds of people at different times of the Day.

The import allows me to have all my dataset in memory, so it can easily respond to a high demand. however, the data will be stored in Azure.
now, If I use Direct Query, it will create a large exchange with my database because of the number of people who consult my report.

In this situation I have a preference for import Mode.

Am I right?

 

regards

Labels:
Message 1 of 3
5,666 Views
2 REPLIES 2
parry2k
Super User
Super User

‎10-08-2018 07:00 AM

@nkasdali you can also consider composite mode where you have mostly used measures are in import and rest can be direct query.

 

 



Subscribe to the @PowerBIHowTo YT channel for an upcoming video on List and Record functions in Power Query!!

Learn Power BI and Fabric - subscribe to our YT channel - Click here: @PowerBIHowTo

If my solution proved useful, I'd be delighted to receive Kudos. When you put effort into asking a question, it's equally thoughtful to acknowledge and give Kudos to the individual who helped you solve the problem. It's a small gesture that shows appreciation and encouragement! ❤


Did I answer your question? Mark my post as a solution. Proud to be a Super User! Appreciate your Kudos 🙂
Feel free to email me with any of your BI needs.

Message 2 of 3
5,663 Views
nkasdali
Microsoft Employee
Microsoft Employee
In response to parry2k

‎10-09-2018 01:07 AM

Hummm

So you suggest that my fact table will be in Import and others dimensions in DirectQuery ?

 

Good idea !i'll try it.

 

 

Thanks.

Message 3 of 3
5,655 Views
0

Helpful resources

Announcements
November Power BI Update Carousel

Power BI Monthly Update - November 2025

Check out the November 2025 Power BI update to learn about new features.

Fabric Data Days Carousel

Fabric Data Days

Advance your Data & AI career with 50 days of live learning, contests, hands-on challenges, study groups & certifications and more!

FabCon Atlanta 2026 carousel

FabCon Atlanta 2026

Join us at FabCon Atlanta, March 16-20, for the ultimate Fabric, Power BI, AI and SQL community-led event. Save $200 with code FABCOMM.

View All
Top Solution Authors
View All
Top Kudoed Authors
View All