• Cost is an estimate, it can be wrong, don't count on it. Usually the best query is the fastest one.

    Post the actual execution plans, not pictures of them, there's lots of missing info. Save as .sqlplan files and upload.

    Gail Shaw
    Microsoft Certified Master: SQL Server, MVP, M.Sc (Comp Sci)
    SQL In The Wild: Discussions on DB performance with occasional diversions into recoverability

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