When running database development, administration, and management tasks on a Mac computer, you need the best database software available. While most people believe Windows is the number one database software platform, many options are available for Mac users.
In this article, we will review all the best available Mac database clients. You can then compare their pros and cons and find which one best suits you.
First, if you are new to databases, check out how long it takes to learn SQL.
What to Look For in a Database App for Mac
Here are essential things to consider when searching for general or SQL databases for Mac:
- Security. The software you choose should be secure to protect your data. Consider factors like encryption and backups when evaluating security.
- Easy to Navigate. Good database software must be user-friendly. A simple UI design is less frustrating for users, which, in turn, enhances productivity.
- Timely Support. User support is very important for troubleshooting issues and getting quick responses when you want to learn more about the database.
- Integration. For SQL server clients, check if the software supports extensions and plugins, allowing you to customize your experience. A good database should also seamlessly integrate workflow across multiple operating systems.
- Pricing. Consider the overall cost, including monthly fees and licenses. Opt for transparent pricing that fits your budget.
Best Database Apps for Mac
There are loads of different database systems out there. You have MySQL, MongoDB, SQLite, and many more, but you need a decent database client to use to connect to these database systems. A GUI client makes the development process much easier, and you can run your queries and test them.
Let’s get started, shall we?
1. TablePlus – Available on Setapp
TablePlus is one of the best database software available for Mac. It is a multi-purpose database client that runs on Windows and MacOS; it has huge support for different database systems.
It is a native GUI for relational databases. This developer tool makes it easy to view your database, run queries, and organize data. It even supports some NoSQL systems like MongoDB and Redis.
You can also use this tool to backup and restore data. It uses modern security and is focused on being fast so it does not get in your way.
Check out the complete review on TablePlus.
Pros
- It has many security features like TLS and multi-step authentication
- You can customize the appearance of the app
- It is a native GUI
- It supports inline editing
- Advanced filters
- It has code review and safe mode
You can find TablePlus and 240+ other apps in Setapp – the ultimate productivity booster. Setapp is a subscription service that gives you access to numerous useful macOS apps so it’s a great way to have plenty of Mac apps for an affordable price.
Cons
- It is not free
- Does not work on Linux
- No rollback buttons
- It does not support all database features
2. dbForge Studio for MySQL
dbForge Studio for MySQL was designed for database developers, analysts, and admins who need a powerful and cutting-edge MySQL and MariaDB GUI for macOS, Windows, and Linux.
This tool stands out for being a very comprehensive MySQL GUI client with a user-friendly interface that lets users perform all kinds of MySQL database tasks.
One of the most important features of dbForge Studio is a MySQL Debugger. It’s an essential tool for tracking down and solving problems in your database system.
The Visual Query Builder makes it easy to build complex queries by letting you easily combine data sets, apply filters, set conditions, and sort results. Plus, it provides numerous features such as code auto-completion, syntax check, formatting, and code snippets to make it even easier.
You can generate stored procedures, compare and synchronize database schemas and data, generate test data, manage user accounts, and configure backup and restore tasks. You can also generate detailed reports on the performance and results.
Pros
- Advanced functionality with lots of options
- A quick, simple, and easy to use
- Helpful customer support through various channels
- Complete documentation and plenty of learning materials
- It has a free Express Edition and a free 30-day trial.
Cons
- Advanced functionality is available in paid editions
- No offline documentation
- Uses CrossOver for running on macOS
3. DBeaver (Free)
DBeaver is a multi-platform database tool for developers to manage and connect to different database systems.
It is free database software for Mac that works with popular database systems like MySQL, PostgreSQL, SQL Server, and many more. The UI has been carefully designed for increased usability.
This database client is open-source, and plugins can be created for it. It uses the JDBC driver to connect to different databases, and there is also an enterprise edition for advanced users.
Pros
- It’s free
- You can import and export data
- Move data between databases
- Simple to use
- Runs on any platform
- Has themes to choose from
Cons
- No option to auto-invalidate connections
- Some functions are not explained very well and are complicated
- UI is not as pretty and modern
4. HeidiSQL (Free)
A free and open-source database client that can connect to multiple different database systems. This database developer tool aims to be easy to use; the focus is on usability.
Once you connect to a database such as MySQL or SQL Server, you can see and edit data structures. You can even connect to multiple databases in one single window.
Not only that, but you can also use an SSH tunnel between this client and a database server. All the usual features like create, edit, and delete functionality along with stored routines and SQL triggers.
Pros
- It’s free
- Open-Source
- The interface is simple and easy to understand
- Works on any platform
- Lightweight install
- Fast
Cons
- Some bugs have not been fixed
- It can be unstable sometimes
- The UI is not as pretty as others
5. MySQL Workbench
MySQL Workbench is a unified visual tool that acts as a database client for MySQL database servers. It provides features for data modeling, SQL development, and SQL testing and is also an admin tool for server configuration.
You can run MySQL Workbench on Windows, Mac, and Linux. You can create ERD models, generate and manage SQL databases, and import and export data.
The editor has advanced features for SQL development, like code highlighting, a wizard to optimize queries, auto-complete, and execution history of SQL commands.
Pros
- Works on any platform
- You can design databases within the tool
- You can program SQL using the built-in editor
- It can be used to configure an SQL database server
Cons
- Sometimes, it can be unstable
- The UI can freeze or be slow at times
- Only focused on MySQL
6. Sequel Pro (Free)
Even though this developer tool uses the word ‘Pro,’ it is actually 100% free to use and open-source.
It focuses only on MySQL databases, so it is fast and easy to use. Because it focuses on MySQL, it supports many features of that database system.
Related article: Top Open Source Databases
This database software for Mac can connect to local and remote MySQL servers, multiple at a time, and view, edit, and delete data from tables.
Pros
- Native GUI client
- Supports many features of MySQL
- Easy to edit data in the table view mode
Cons
- Some bugs that are not fixed
- Support is lacking for recent updates
- No multiple query tabs
7. DataGrip
A fully blown database client and database IDE. This client is specifically tailored to suit the specific needs of SQL developers.
It is one tool for many databases. This database software for Mac has an intelligent query console and efficient schema navigation. You can also create a database ERD within the IDE and connect tables together.
It also has version control features, so you can connect to Git or SVN and work with SQL queries from a version control system. Furthermore, it supports database systems like PostgreSQL, MySQL, Oracle, SQL Server, and managed services like Azure and AWS Redshift.
Pros
- Intelligent IDE, not just an editor
- Schema navigation features
- You can create an ERD
- Import and Export data directly
- SQL Explanation window
- Smart code completion
Cons
- It is not free
- Sometimes, it uses a lot of system memory and slows down
8. Valentina (Free)
Valentina is a native GUI database client that allows you to create, edit, update, and manage data. It fully supports MySQL, MariaDB, PostgreSQL, and SQLite.
This database software for Mac can manage multiple databases in tabs, dockable views, and windows. You can create, drop, and alter SQL commands on tables, view data, change indexes, and set up SQL triggers.
Easily edit multiple properties of multiple objects simultaneously and search tables rapidly with the built-in search system. You can even perform server administration and do things like adding users, dropping users, and managing user groups.
This GUI editor and database software for Mac can also be used to view logs and monitor the performance of the database server.
Pros
- Use it for free
- Advanced SQL features like triggers and stored procedures
- Search tables quickly
- Create and alter scheduled events
- Compress and clone data
Cons
- The free version requires lots of personal data to get access
- No support for DateTime data types
- It can be a slow startup
9. Navicat
Navicat is a premium, multi-connection database development and administration tool for professional database developers. It supports database systems like MySQL, MariaDB, MongoDB, and SQL Server.
This native GUI database client can perform advanced database operations, such as stored procedures, triggers, functions, and SQL views.
You can efficiently transfer data across many databases, import and export data, run batch jobs for databases, and use the query builder to test the performance of SQL commands. There is also a feature to synchronize data.
The GUI focuses on ease of use and boasts an intuitive interface. This tool is quite advanced because you can connect your database to the Navicat cloud, allowing you to access your database systems on the go.
Pros
- Runs on any platform, Windows, Mac, and Linux
- Advanced SQL operations are supported
- Connect to the Navicat cloud
- Built-in editor for SQL queries
- SSH tunnel support
- Supports many file types for importing and exporting data
Cons
- Paid only
- It can be complicated to use
- Each database system has its own tool, not one package
- Linux client is not as up-to-date
10. Oracle SQL Developer (Free)
Built by a major company in the database systems market, Oracle, this is their official database client you can use to connect to their SQL servers. The Oracle SQL Developer tool is free for Mac and is a full IDE that simplifies the development and management of your Oracle database system.
SQL Developer is an end-to-end environment for managing your Oracle database. It has a fully featured SQL console for running queries, scripts, and test commands.
You can run SQL reports, stored procedures, and SQL triggers and create database ERDs that can be generated automatically.
Pros
- SQL History
- Dedicated client for Oracle databases
- Has a version that runs in the browser
- Can configure the server from this client
- Create and generate ERDs
- It is free to use
Cons
- Only works for Oracle databases
- The UI is not very pretty
- UI can be confusing
11. DbVisualizer
DbVisualizer is a database management and SQL editor famous for its simple coding features. It incorporates auto-complete context suggestions helpful in writing SQL code, a drag-and-drop query builder, and queries built for repeat use.
Numerous databases support it, including MySQL Cloud, Oracle, SQLite, MariaDB, and Microsoft SQL Server. This database client for Mac can also use any data accessible through the JDBC Driver.
DbVisualizer has a free standard set. To get the complete feature set and timely customer support, you must upgrade to the Pro version, which starts at $197 per user/ year. However, there is a free forum where users can interact.
Pros
- Auto-complete suggestions and formatting
- Has a free version
- Free user guide support
- Includes query builder
- SSH encryption for secure access
- SQL History
Cons
- Costly Pro plans
- Limited features in the free version
- Hard to figure out for beginners
12. iDatabase
iDatabase is an excellent platform for those looking to create databases or inventories. You don’t need any prior experience. The platform has 22 easy-to-use templates that you can customize to match your preferences and objectives. It also offers 14 fields for different data you may want to enter.
When using iDatabase, you can import data from an older database, provided it is a CSV file. The best part is it can synchronize with all your iOS devices thanks to the Wi-Fi Sync feature. A built-in backup function also stores and helps you retrieve data remotely from Dropbox space.
Pros
- Ready to use templates
- Syncs with iOS devices
- Built-in backup function
- You can share created databases with others
- Filter search option
- 14 data fields
Cons
- Limited customization options
- Poor printing options
- Lacks a comprehensive user manual
13. Panorama X
As a Mac-only app, Panorama X is among the databases incorporating the latest Native AppKit UI features, such as customizable toolbars, Unicode support, inspector panels, and multi-level undo. This database app is RAM-based, so unlike disk-based databases, it functions using your Mac’s RAM, making it faster.
Panorama X combines spreadsheet technology and database features. You can import CSV, JSON, and TSV files. The automation feature also makes it simple to modify the database structure and layout.
The software supports different code, such as Python, PHP, AppleScript, and Ruby. Numerous custom layouts and data visualization features are available. Regarding security, Panorama X supports AES-256 encryption to protect sensitive data and an integrity seal that will automatically notify you if a document database is tampered with.
Pros
- It is RAM-based
- Responsive and modern user-interface
- Supports deep searching
- Numerous visualization and analytics options
- Has a 64-bit capacity
- Supports multiple file export formats
Cons
- Doesn’t include a free version
- Only supported by macOS 10.12 (Sierra) or later
- Can’t work for long durations without an internet connection
14. Records
Like Panorama X, Records is a database app for Mac. It is a creation and management tool featuring an intuitive drag-and-drop visual editor. The app also has a spreadsheet view, making it easier to display, sort, and edit data.
There are 17 form fields, including a star rating and 30 templates. The software’s 64-bit architecture leverages the advanced macOS 10.14 Mojave specs. It can also export and import CSV data.
Pros
- Features an updated UI
- Records can be localized in 6 different languages
- Includes dark mode for macOS 10.14 Mojave
- Has a split-view
- Easy to share database templates
Cons
- Supported by macOS 14 or later
- Can only import CSV files
What Is The Best Database Program For Mac?
It is not easy to say which is the best database software for Mac. You need to work out if you want a general database client for development or a full-blown IDE. For a general database developer tool, DBeaver is free and open-source and has basic to advanced features. If you want a full IDE, then TablePlus or DataGrip will be more suitable options.
