How to use the MySQL CURTIME() function

The CURTIME() function in MySQL returns the current time in ‘HH:MM:SS’ format. It is useful for inserting and comparing against the current time.

Syntax

The syntax for CURTIME() is simple:

CURTIME()

It takes no arguments.

Examples

1. Get the current time:

   SELECT CURTIME();
   

   This returns the current time when the query is executed.

2. Insert current time into a timestamp:

   INSERT INTO logs (entry_time)
   VALUES (CURTIME());
   

   This inserts the current time into the entry_time column.

3. Select records based on current time:

   SELECT * FROM events
   WHERE start_time > CURTIME();
   

   This returns upcoming events with start time greater than current time.

4. Compare against a fixed time:

   SELECT CURTIME() > '12:30:00';
   

   This compares the current time against 12:30 PM.

5. Get current date and time together:

   SELECT CONCAT(CURDATE(), ' ', CURTIME());
   

   This concatenates current date and time.

Other Similar Functions

• CURRENT_TIME() - Alias for CURTIME()
• NOW() - Current date and time
• SYSDATE() - Current date and time
• UNIX_TIMESTAMP() - Unix timestamp

So CURTIME() provides an easy way to access the current time for queries and inserts in MySQL.