The PC Thread: Database edition

[Calvin6s]

This could overwhelm the PC thread, so I created this subset thread.

What databases do you prefer and why?  Also, for what tasks.  Personal usually requires much less power than business.

Simply because Access came with Microsoft, I've been able to use that to create databases from scratch.  And I've been able to use ODBC to connect to more enterprise type databases.

If you use the Access database files, do you use Microsoft Access to also create an interface or do you use another program (direct programming or otherwise) to create the interface to the Access file format?

I've also messed around with PHP mySQL (obviously for internet/website reasons).

Trying to find a nice compromise between options (power) without getting too complicated a learning curve (since I don't do it full time).  Any suggestions?

BTW, I use it for things like
- inventory (including checkout to person and project)
- Contacts
- Field and project reporting
- time cards
- employee scheduling
- other items I'm sure I'm forgetting

Every time I try to use a prepackaged application, it always feels close but limited.