VARCHAR vs INT

[Master_Zen]

Is there any practical difference between using VARCHAR and INT rows in mySQL?

For example, if VARCHAR rows have only numbers are they interpreted by PHP in the exact same way as INT when using arithmetic operators?

Also, stupid question #2: is it possible to use brackets to make more complex equations in php like for example, $i = (40 - 4) / 12 ?

[Drakla]

If you're storing integers then use the INT type, why? Well it uses 4 bytes, any number over 99 or less than -9 stored using a varchar will also use 4 bytes - escalating as you move up those powers of ten. Also when you have to run number comparisons in queries it's simple for it to work out how one int compares to another, comparing strings - different kettle of beans.

Native types are there for a reason.

[Master_Zen]

nevermind the second question, I just found out it does work...