How to store data with dynamic number of attributes in a database

Question

I have a number of different objects with a varying number of attributes. Until now I have saved the data in XML files which easily allow for an ever changing number of attr

Answer 1

If you are using a relational db, then I think you did a good job listing the options. They each have their pros and cons. YOU are in the best position to decide what works best for your circumstances.

The serialized approach is probably the fastest (depending on your code for de-serializing), but it means that you won't be able to query the data with SQL. If you say that you don't need to query the data with SQL, then I agree with @longneck, maybe you should use a key/value style db instead of a relational db.

EDIT - reading more of your comments, WHY are you switching to a db if speed is your main concern. What's BAD about your current XML implementation?