Laravel Tip: save() vs update() – Which One Should You Use & Why It Matters

When working with Laravel's Eloquent ORM, many developers use update() to modify data — but in real-world apps, especially those with complex dashboards or dynamic form handling, using save() can prevent hidden bugs and improve code clarity.

The Difference: update() vs save()

• update(array $attributes) — Mass updates attributes and persists them immediately.
• save() — Saves the current model instance, respecting manually set attributes.

Why I Prefer save() for Single Records

Here’s what makes save() more reliable in many scenarios:

• ✅ No need for $fillable or $guarded properties
• ✅ Prevents silent failures (e.g., misspelled fields)
• ✅ Keeps model instance up-to-date
• ✅ Simplifies debugging
• ✅ Safer in conditional logic and dynamic forms

Real Use Case: Admin Panel Profile Update

Imagine you’re building an admin panel where users can update their profile info — name, email, and optionally, their role or avatar.

- Using save() (Safe & Explicit)

$user = User::find($id);

$user->name = $request->name;
$user->email = $request->email;

if ($request->has('role')) {
    $user->role = $request->role;
}

$user->save();

- Using update() (Risky & Opaque)

User::where('id', $id)->update([
    'name' => $request->name,
    'email' => $request->email,
    'role' => $request->role, // What if role is null or missing?
]);

If the role field is misspelled or doesn’t exist in the database, update() will silently succeed and no error will be thrown — a hidden bug that’s hard to catch.

- When to Use update()

Use update() when:

• You need to perform a bulk update (e.g., update all users with a certain role)
• You are 100% sure the keys are correct and don’t require model logic

User::where('role', 'editor')->update(['active' => false]);

Final Tip

Use save() when working with individual model instances, dynamic fields, or conditional logic.
Use update() for fast, bulk updates with strict, static fields.

Conclusion

Using save() over update() isn’t just a style choice — it can prevent bugs, make debugging easier, and increase the reliability of your Laravel apps.

Be intentional. Write safer code.

🔗 Want more Laravel tips? Check out our latest coding tips on our Tips & Tricks page