database

12 Free Database Management Tools for macOS

Hazem Abbas

Nov 26, 2024 — 11 min read

A database management and administration system is a tool that helps you work with databases. Databases are where all the important data for your applications, websites, or systems is stored—like user information, transactions, or content.

Why you need an SQL database Manager?

Here’s what they’re used for:

Backup: Safeguard your data by creating backups so you don’t lose it in case of a failure or crash. A good database tool lets you create, schedule, and restore backups easily.
Data Management: Organize, edit, and view your data effortlessly. You can browse records, update tables, and even restructure your database when needed.
SQL Management: Write, execute, and test SQL queries (the language used to interact with databases) with features like auto-completion, syntax highlighting, and error checks.

macOS User's Dilemma, Finding the Right Database Admin

If you’re on a Mac, finding good database tools can be tricky. Many of the commercial options are expensive, and the free ones don’t always offer the features or usability you need. That’s where affordable or open-source macOS apps come in—they provide powerful functionality without breaking the bank.

In short, affordable or open-source macOS apps help you stay productive and effective without spending a fortune on commercial tools. They’re perfect for developers, database admins, and even learners exploring databases for the first time! 🚀

Database Management Apps for macOS

1- Azure Data Studio

Azure Data Studio is more than an SQL database manager and editor, It is a feature-rich free tool for data engineers, data scientists and business intelligence geeks.

If you are looking for SQL with visualization options, better data engagements, then Azure Data Studio is your to-go choice.

2- DBeaver

I have used DBeaver on several occasions. It is a cross-platform application that works seamlessly on Windows, Linux, and macOS. DBeaver supports a wide range of SQL databases and includes a built-in SQL editor, ERD tools, and robust features for data export, import, and migration.

Its functionality can be easily extended with plugins, allowing support for additional database types and enabling connections to remote services. This makes DBeaver a versatile and powerful tool for database management and development.

3- Sequel Pro

Sequel Pro is a native macOS fast, easy-to-use database management application for working with MySQL & MariaDB databases. Sequel Pro is free and open source software, licensed under MIT.

4- Falcon

Falcon is a free, open-source SQL editor that combines powerful querying capabilities with inline data visualization. It supports a wide range of databases, including RedShift, MySQL, PostgreSQL, IBM DB2, Impala, MS SQL, Oracle, SQLite, and more.

For Oracle connections, it provides detailed instructions for installing the required free Oracle Instant Client. Falcon's user-friendly interface and robust feature set make it a valuable tool for database professionals seeking efficient data exploration and analysis.

5- CloudBeaver Community Edition

CloudBeaver Community is a free, open-source cloud database manager designed for web-based database management. It features a rich, intuitive web interface powered by TypeScript and React, while the server component is built in Java.

The app is licensed under the Apache 2.0 license, CloudBeaver Community allows users to manage databases directly from their browser, making it a convenient and modern solution for database professionals.

6- Sequel Ace

Sequel Ace is the "sequel" to the longtime macOS tool Sequel Pro. Sequel Ace is a fast, easy-to-use Mac database management application for working with MySQL & MariaDB databases.

You can easily install it directly from the Apple's Mac App Store, using MAS CLI, or Homebrew if you prefer.

Homebrew

brew install --cask sequel-ace

MAS CLI

mas install 1518036000 # Sequel Ace

7- usql

usql is a powerful, universal command-line tool for working with databases. Whether you're managing PostgreSQL, MySQL, Oracle, SQLite3, Microsoft SQL Server, or even NoSQL and non-relational databases, usql has you covered—all from a single interface!

Inspired by PostgreSQL’s popular psql, usql brings the same intuitive feel while adding even more features. You’ll get all the psql staples like variables, backticks, and backslash commands, plus extras you’ll love:

Multiple Database Support: Easily switch and work across databases.
Copy Between Databases: Move data seamlessly.
Syntax Highlighting: Make your commands easier to read.
Context-Based Completion: Write queries faster with smart suggestions.
Terminal Graphics: Visualize data in your terminal for better clarity.

If you’re a database administrator or developer who enjoys the simplicity of psql but needs a tool for non-PostgreSQL databases, usql is the perfect solution. It’s intuitive, easy to use, and a fantastic replacement for other command-line clients. Try it out and make your database work simpler and smarter!

Install for macOS

# install usql with most drivers
$ brew install xo/xo/usql

# add xo tap
$ brew tap xo/xo

# install usql with odbc support
$ brew install --with-odbc usql

8- Sqlectron

Sqlectron is a simple, open-source SQL client built for developers and database enthusiasts. It makes managing your databases straightforward and user-friendly. Sqlectron supports multiple database systems, including PostgreSQL, MySQL, MariaDB, SQLite, and Microsoft SQL Server, giving you the flexibility to work with your preferred setup.

Features

Cross-Platform: Works on Windows, macOS, and Linux.
Database Support: Connect to PostgreSQL, MySQL, MariaDB, SQLite, and Microsoft SQL Server.
Two Versions: Choose between a user-friendly desktop app or a terminal-based client.
Multi-Connection: Manage multiple databases at once.
Query Editor: Write, execute, and save queries with syntax highlighting and auto-completion.
Data Browsing: View and edit table data directly.
Schema Management: Explore database structures like tables, columns, and indexes.
Secure Connections: Save connection settings and connect via SSH tunneling.
Lightweight: Minimalistic design for smooth, distraction-free use.

8- LazySQL

LazySQL is a free and open-source A cross-platform TUI database management tool written in Go. Currently, it supports MySQL, PostgreSQL, MariaDB and SQLite.

Features

Cross-platform (macOS, Windows, Linux)
Vim Keybindings
Can manage multiple connections (Backspace)
Tabs
SQL Editor (CTRL + e)

Install with Homebrew

brew tap jorgerojas26/lazysql
brew install lazysql

Install using Go

go install github.com/jorgerojas26/lazysql@latest

9- Beekeeper Studio (Community Edition)

Beekeeper Studio is a cross-platform SQL editor and database manager available for Linux, Mac, and Windows. Beekeeper Studio Community Edition is GPL licensed so it is free (libre) and free (gratis).

Supported Databases for the Community Edition:

PostgreSQL
MySQL
SQLite
SQL Server
Amazon Redshift
CockroachDB
MariaDB
TiDB
Google BigQuery

10- DbGate - Free Database Administration Tool

DbGate is a fast, user-friendly database administration tool designed to simplify database management. It supports popular databases like MySQL, PostgreSQL, and SQL Server, making it a versatile choice for developers and database administrators.

With DbGate, you can:

Try it instantly: Explore its features using the online demo at demo.dbgate.org.
Download for all platforms: Install it on Windows, Linux, or Mac directly from dbgate.org.
Run it in the cloud: Use it as an NPM package or deploy it as a Docker image for seamless web-based usage.

Whether you prefer a desktop app or a web-based interface, DbGate offers flexibility, speed, and ease of use for managing your databases.

Features

Connect to Microsoft SQL Server, Postgre SQL, MySQL
Table data editing, with SQL change script preview
Master/detail views
Query designer
Form view for comfortable work with tables with many columns
Explore tables, views, procedures, functions
SQL editor, execute SQL script, SQL code formatter, SQL code completion, SQL join wizard
Runs as application for Windows, Linux and Mac. Or in Docker container on server and in web Browser on client.
Import, export from/to CSV, Excel, JSON
Free table editor - quick table data editing (cleanup data after import/before export, prototype tables etc.)
Archives - backup your data in JSON files on local filesystem (or on DbGate server, when using web application)
Light and dark theme
Charts