While creating a PowerBI report, one of the first dilemma that a developer faces is whether to use Import or Direct query option when connecting to data set.
In this article I am trying to explain various aspects that can help with the decision making.
Real-Time data - Direct query
If you are creating a report that needs to show real time data (or almost real time), Direct query is a better option. With Import, you can refresh the data only a limited number of times.
However, there are other factors to consider as well:
You should also consider whether your data gets updated regularly or not. Even if you need real time data, there is no point using direct query if your data gets updated only few times a day, you should consider the Import option. There are lots of disadvantages of using direct query and you may want to avoid some of them if possible.
You should also look for the cost associated with each query. Your datasource provider may charge you per transaction. In such cases, it might be beneficial to compare the cost of having direct query with the inconvenience of having data which is few hours old.
One of the important things to note is that with direct query you can use only one data source. This may limit your reports capability to provide complete view in your report.
I have provided a feature comparison, which might be helpful in making decision.
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