Is varchar(MAX) always preferable?

Question

Regarding SQL Server, I understand :

• var means the memory is lazy allocated, meaning it fits to the data exactly (on insertion).

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Answer 1

Here's what microsoft recommends:

• Use char when the sizes of the column data entries are consistent.
• Use varchar when the sizes of the column data entries vary considerably.
• Use varchar(max) when the sizes of the column data entries vary considerably, and the size might exceed 8,000 bytes.

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