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Postgres-only SQL editors are designed specifically for Postgres databases, providing a more focused and efficient experience for Postgres users. In this post, we are taking a look at the top Postgres-only SQL editors in 2026.

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Database deployment tools for devops teams in 2026.

Database Deployment Tools for DevOps Teams in 2026

Schema change detection and notification are essential for data pipelines. This article explains why a simple column rename can break your data pipeline and how to prevent it.

Schema Change Detection and Notification: Why a Simple Column Rename Can Break Your Data Pipeline

A comprehensive guide to understanding and analyzing Postgres query plans.

Postgres Query Plan: How to Read and Fix Performance Issues

This article explores the anatomy of Postgres permissions ERROR 42501.

The Anatomy of Postgres Permission ERROR 42501

Postgres Logs Explained: A Practical Guide for Production

Postgres 19 widens MultiXactOffset to 64 bits, eliminating the hidden 4 billion member limit that caused catastrophic outages for high-concurrency workloads.

Postgres 19 Feature Preview: 64-bit MultiXactOffset

A guide to MySQL schema migration best practice.

MySQL Schema Migration Best Practice

Postgres 19 introduces automatic sequence synchronization for logical replication, eliminating manual tracking and making major version upgrades and failover significantly easier.

Postgres 19 Feature Preview: Sequence Synchronization for Logical Replication

A guide to multi-environment deployments in databases.

Database Multi-Environment Deployments - The Challenges and Patterns

A guide to open source sensitive data discovery tools — from NLP libraries like spaCy and Microsoft Presidio to multi-source scanners like Hawk-Eye and full metadata platforms like OpenMetadata.

Top Open Source Sensitive Data Discovery Tools in 2026

Database audit logging has two layers: infrastructure (provider-managed) and workflow (database activity). What each captures, and why compliance requires both.

Database Audit Logging: Two Layers, One Trail

A practical guide to HITRUST database compliance covering access control, audit logging, change management, and data protection.

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Learn why enforcing NOT VALID in CHECK constraints is important and how the "Enforce NOT VALID in CHECK" review rule protects your production database.

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Postgres Audit Logging Guide

Learn why CASCADE operations in SQL can lead to catastrophic data loss and how the "Prohibit CASCADE" review rule protects your production database.

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A comprehensive guide on migrating from Supabase to AWS, covering database, auth, storage, functions, realtime, and networking.

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Top open-source Postgres backup solutions for 2026.

What is Enterprise Database Management (EDM)?

What is Postgres Transaction ID (XID) Wraparound and how to monitor and prevent it.

Postgres Transaction ID (XID) Wraparound

How a CI/CD pipeline for database schema migration works end-to-end — what it gates, what it leaves outside, and the tools that fit.

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A practical guide to shipping features efficiently using PostgreSQL, covering development workflows, best practices, and real-world examples

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A comprehensive overview of the essential practices and principles necessary for achieving LGPD (Brazilian General Personal Data Protection Act), compliance within database operations, and its difference with GDPR

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Explain what is Postgres LATERAL JOIN and how to use it.

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Introduction to MySQL Online DDL and its three algorithms: INSTANT, INPLACE, and COPY

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List of open source postgres connection poolers

Open Source Postgres Connection Pooler

A comprehensive guide to understanding the dilemma of singular vs. plural table naming in SQL databases.

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PostgreSQL 18 features that change how application developers write and ship code.

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Compare Snowflake Dynamic Data Masking with database views and Bytebase fleet-wide masking — edition gate, policy management, audit trail.

Snowflake Dynamic Data Masking (DDM) and Alternatives

Top open-source Postgres authentication solutions for 2025.

Postgres Case Sensitivity Explained

A comprehensive guide to understanding pg_database_owner in Postgres

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Which operation causes a Postgres table rewrite

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An engineering perspective to evaluate Postgres row-level-security footguns

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An engineering perspective to evaluate Postgres rollback strategies

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Learn how Postgres locks affect schema migrations and which DDL operations conflict with DML to achieve zero-downtime deployments.

Postgres Schema Migration without Downtime

A checklist of gh-ost limitations and potential gotchas

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5 quick wins for application developers to improve Postgres reliability and make both their own and DBA/infrastructure teams' lives easier.

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Learn how to use CREATE INDEX CONCURRENTLY in Postgres to build indexes without blocking writes. Pitfalls, safety checks, and performance tips.

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An extensive comparison between Supabase and MongoDB on performance, usability, operability, ecosystem and more.

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When evaluating database management tools, DataGrip and Bytebase represent two different philosophies: individual developer productivity versus team collaboration and governance.

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Learn how Bytebase enables organizations to implement comprehensive Database Security Lifecycle Management, unifying security and operations from development to production.

Database Security Lifecycle Management

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While PostgreSQL RLS is a powerful feature, it has inherent design limitations that hinder broader adoption. In this post, we’ll examine these limitations and explore alternatives.

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[DataGrip](https://www.jetbrains.com/datagrip/) is an IDE (integrated development environment) for databases. It's developed by JetBrains (the same company behind popular IDEs IntelliJ and PyCharm) and designed to provide a unified interface for working with different relational databases such as MySQL, PostgreSQL, Oracle, and SQL Server, and others.

DataGrip is part of the JetBrains ecosystem, offering integration with other JetBrains tools and frameworks so that users have a consistent experience with other JetBrains IDEs. So it's perfect if you prefer an IDE with database management features.

![](/content/blog/top-datagrip-alternative/datagrip.webp)

If you are not familiar with the JetBrains ecosystem or prefer a dedicated database GUI for database management and administration tasks, this post highlights FIVE alternatives to DataGrip.

## DBeaver

[DBeaver](https://dbeaver.com/) is a universal database tool that runs on Windows, macOS, and Linux. It offers both open-source (free) and commercial products (subscription-based). The open-source version provides basic support for relational databases such as MySQL, SQL Server, Postgres, etc.; while the commercial one offers further support for NoSQL and cloud databases.

![](/content/blog/top-datagrip-alternative/dbeaver.webp)

## Navicat

[Navicat](https://navicat.com/) is another long-established database GUI tool, which supports a long list of databases. It is a great single-user SQL client that works on Windows, macOS, and Linux. However, it has a [serious limitation](/blog/stop-using-navicat/) in multi-user scenarios where team collaboration and centralized control are needed. Navicat is not open-source, nor does it offer a free version, it operates on a subscription-based model with a 14-day trial.

![](/content/blog/top-datagrip-alternative/navicat.webp)

## TablePlus

[TablePlus](https://tableplus.com/) is a modern and lightweight intuitive database management tool fit for macOS, Windows, Linux, and even iOS. It offers a simple and streamlined interface for managing various relational and a few NoSQL databases.

![](/content/blog/top-datagrip-alternative/tableplus.webp)

TablePlus offers two plans: a free tier with no trial time (but with limited features) and a paid subscription plan that provides extended features.

TablePlus is not open-source, but the team's other product is - DBngin, which can [spin up a local Postgres, MySQL or Redis](/blog/free-tools-to-start-local-database-on-mac/) on your Mac, it can then be connected to TablePlus as a UI for your databases.

## Beekeeper Studio

[Beekeeper Studio](https://www.beekeeperstudio.io/) is a modern and lightweight database manager and SQL GUI client that supports Postgres, MySQL, SQLite, SQL Server, CockroachDB, and a few others. And it runs on Windows, macOS (both M1 and Intel), and Linux.

![](/content/blog/top-datagrip-alternative/beekeeper.webp)

It offers two editions: the open-source community version, which is free to use; and the full version with all the features that operates on a subscription-based model.

Beekeeper was designed with easy-to-use and minimalistic in mind, at the expense of some more complex functionalities, but it obviously has all the basics of a database GUI down: connect to databases, view data and structure, run SQL queries, export data, etc.

## Bytebase

Of course, if you have multiple different databases at your organization and are looking for a universal tool that can handle them all while covering database change, query, security, and governance all in one, please check out [Bytebase](/). Aside from the visual [SQL Editor](https://docs.bytebase.com/sql-editor/overview/) integrated with [access control](https://docs.bytebase.com/security/database-permission/overview/) and [data masking](https://docs.bytebase.com/security/data-masking/overview/), it also provides a customizable [change workflow](https://docs.bytebase.com/change-database/change-workflow/) to fit your data/database change requirements.

![change-query-secure-govern-database-all-in-one](/content/blog/_shared/db-scheme-lg.png)

## Summary

DataGrip is a powerful SQL tool, but whether it is the right option for you depends on your tasks. It is a great compliment to IntelliJ as a database IDE. However, as a database admin tool, DataGrip is not a comprehensive alternative to the other professional database GUIs.

Below is a summary for the aforementioned tools:

|                  | Open Source | Free version | Paid version | Audience                                                | Strength                                                         |
| ---------------- | ----------- | ------------ | ------------ | ------------------------------------------------------- | ---------------------------------------------------------------- | --- |
| DataGrip         | ❌          | ❌           | ✅           | Individual                                              | Intuitive UX and integraiton with other JetBrains IDEs           |     |
| DBeaver          | ✅          | ✅           | ✅           | Individual                                              | Comprehensive features                                           |
| Navicat          | ❌          | ✅           | ✅           | Individual                                              | Comprehensive features                                           |
| TablePlus        | ❌          | ✅           | ✅           | Individual                                              | Native and intuitive interface                                   |
| Beekeeper Studio | ✅          | ✅           | ✅           | Individual                                              | Mordern and sleek interface                                      |
| Bytebase         | ✅          | ✅           | ✅           | Entire engineering org for developer, DBA and data team | Centralized access control, data masking, change review workflow |

## Further Readings

- [Top Free, Open Source SQL Clients to Make Database Management Easier](/blog/top-open-source-sql-clients/)
- [Top Database Schema Migration Tools](/blog/top-database-schema-change-tool-evolution/)


DataGrip is an database IDE developed by JetBrains and is closely integrated with the JetBrains ecosystem. As a database admin tool, DataGrip is not a comprehensive alternative to the other dedicated database GUIs. Here, we are taking a look at top DataGrip alternatives.

Top DataGrip Alternatives 2023


<HintBlock type="info">

This post is maintained by Bytebase, an open-source database DevSecOps tool that can manage MySQL. We update the post gradually.

</HintBlock>

| Update History | Comment          |
| -------------- | ---------------- |
| 2023/09/05     | Initial version. |
| 2025/05/23     | 2025 Update.     |

**MySQL** is widely-recognized as the world's most popular open source database and powers many of the most accessed applications, including Facebook, Twitter, Netflix, Uber, Airbnb, Shopify, and Booking.com. While you can use MySQL just fine without a GUI, having one can take your experience working with MySQL to the next level.

If you work exclusively with MySQL databases, [MySQL Workbench](https://www.mysql.com/products/workbench/) is an excellent choice, as it's specifically designed to work with MySQL and provides a comprehensive set of tools and functionalities for managing and interacting with MySQL databases.

![](/content/blog/top-mysql-workbench-alternative/mysql-workbench.webp)

It is available on Windows, Linux and MacOS. It is also worth noting that MySQL Workbench is offered in three different editions with [different features supported](https://www.mysql.com/products/workbench/features.html):

- Community Edition - Open Source (GPL License)
- Standard Edition - Commercial
- Enterprise Edition - Commercial

But - if MySQL is not the only database you work with, you need to look elsewhere. This article highlights five database GUI alternatives for MySQL Workbench.

## phpMyAdmin

[phpMyAdmin](https://www.phpmyadmin.net/) remains one of the most popular alternatives to MySQL Workbench. It is a web-based interface to MySQL and MariaDB written in PHP that was first released back in 1998. It's open-source and free to use. For over 25 years, phpMyAdmin continues to be one of the most popular administration tools for MySQL databases, with a large community of users and contributors.

![](/content/blog/top-mysql-workbench-alternative/phpmyadmin.webp)

The latest version, phpMyAdmin 5.2.2 (released January 21, 2025), includes several important security fixes, including patches for XSS vulnerabilities (PMASA-2025-1 and PMASA-2025-2) and security issues with library code. Performance improvements include speed enhancements when exporting databases and improved collations support for MariaDB 10.10. User experience has been enhanced with fixes to the theme manager and the addition of cookie prefixes to help prevent cookie smuggling.

## DBeaver

[DBeaver](https://dbeaver.com/) is a universal database tool that runs on Windows, macOS, and Linux. It offers both open-source (free) and commercial products (subscription-based). The open-source version provides basic support for relational databases such as MySQL, SQL Server, Postgres, etc.; while the commercial one offers further support for NoSQL and cloud databases.

![](/content/blog/top-mysql-workbench-alternative/dbeaver.webp)

With the latest version DBeaver 25.0.5 (released May 18, 2025) introducing several powerful features. The new DBeaver Proxy Driver allows third-party applications to connect to databases configured in CloudBeaver or Team Edition Web, making it particularly useful for users of BI tools like Tableau and JasperReports. The enhanced Files functionality now enables users to open and work with XLSX, CSV, Parquet, JSON, or XML files directly within the application.

Security has been strengthened with support for AWS Secrets Manager and HashiCorp Vault, while database compatibility has expanded to include Apache Cloudberry and Databend. Perhaps most notably, DBeaver now features AI Assistant integration with support for popular AI models including ChatGPT, Google Gemini, DeepSeek, and Ollama, providing contextual guidance and assistance with SQL queries.

## Navicat

[Navicat](https://navicat.com/) is another long-established database GUI tool, which supports a long list of databases. It is a great single-user SQL client that works on Windows, macOS, and Linux. However, it has a [serious limitation](/blog/stop-using-navicat/) in multi-user scenarios where team collaboration and centralized control are needed. Navicat is not open-source, nor does it offer a free version, it operates on a subscription-based model with a 14-day trial.

![](/content/blog/top-mysql-workbench-alternative/navicat.webp)

The latest version, Navicat 17.2 (released March 2025), introduces the new AI Assistant that provides instant, contextual guidance and answers directly within Navicat, enabling users to ask questions and receive immediate assistance. Navicat has also added integrated Snowflake support, enhancing the management of cloud-based data warehousing platforms.

## TablePlus

[TablePlus](https://tableplus.com/) is a modern and lightweight intuitive database management tool fit for macOS, Windows, Linux, and even iOS. It offers a simple and streamlined interface for managing various relational and a few NoSQL databases.

![](/content/blog/top-mysql-workbench-alternative/tableplus.webp)

Currently, TablePlus offers two plans: a free tier with no trial time (but with limited features) and a paid subscription plan that provides extended features.

TablePlus is not open-source, but the team's other product is - DBngin, which can [spin up a local Postgres, MySQL or Redis](/blog/free-tools-to-start-local-database-on-mac/) on your Mac, it can then be connected to TablePlus as a UI for your databases.

## DataGrip

[DataGrip](https://www.jetbrains.com/datagrip/) is a database IDE by JetBrains for macOS, Windows, and Linux. It provides complete support for the most popular databases like Postgres, MySQL, MongoDB, etc., and basic support with limited features for database vendors including DuckDB, Elasticsearch, SingleStore, etc. It is not open-source and operates on a commercial licensing model (but offers a 30-day trial period).

![](/content/blog/top-mysql-workbench-alternative/datagrip.webp)

The latest version, DataGrip 2025.1.2 (released May 7, 2025), introduces several MySQL-specific enhancements. The new introspection by levels feature for MySQL and MariaDB improves database navigation and management. Schema context is now automatically added to AI-based error explanations, making troubleshooting more efficient.

JetBrains AI features are accessible with a new subscription model that includes AI Pro and AI Ultimate options, as well as a free tier.

DataGrip is part of the JetBrains ecosystem, offering integration with other JetBrains tools and frameworks and users have a consistent experience with other JetBrains IDEs. So it's perfect if you prefer a dedicated IDE with comprehensive database management features.

## Bytebase

If you have multiple different databases at your organization and are looking for a universal tool that can handle them all while covering database change, query, security, and governance all in one, please check out [Bytebase](/). Aside from the visual [SQL Editor](https://docs.bytebase.com/sql-editor/overview/) integrated with [access control](https://docs.bytebase.com/security/database-permission/overview/) and [data masking](https://docs.bytebase.com/security/data-masking/overview/), it also provides a customizable [change workflow](https://docs.bytebase.com/change-database/change-workflow/) to fit your data/database change requirements.

![change-query-secure-govern-database-all-in-one](/content/blog/_shared/db-scheme-lg.png)

## Summary

There are many tools out there, but at the end of the day, they are all different (albeit slightly) and have different focuses on the problem they are trying to solve. The choice of which one to go for eventually comes down to you and your organization. Below is a summary for the aforementioned tools:

|                 | Open Source | Free version | Paid version | Audience                                                | Strength                                                         | AI Features | Cloud DB Support |
| --------------- | ----------- | ------------ | ------------ | ------------------------------------------------------- | ---------------------------------------------------------------- | ----------- | ---------------- |
| MySQL Workbench | ✅          | ✅           | ✅           | Individual and teams                                    | Built for MySQL                                                  | ❌          | Limited          |
| phpMyAdmin      | ✅          | ✅           | ❌           | Individual                                              | Built for MySQL                                                  | ❌          | Limited          |
| DBeaver         | ✅          | ✅           | ✅           | Individual                                              | Comprehensive features                                           | ✅          | Extensive        |
| Navicat         | ❌          | ❌           | ✅           | Individual                                              | Comprehensive features                                           | ✅          | Extensive        |
| TablePlus       | ❌          | ✅           | ✅           | Individual                                              | Native and intuitive interface                                   | ❌          | Moderate         |
| DataGrip        | ❌          | ❌           | ✅           | Individual                                              | Intuitive UX and integration with other JetBrains IDEs           | ✅          | Extensive        |
| Bytebase        | ✅          | ✅           | ✅           | Entire engineering org for developer, DBA and data team | Centralized access control, data masking, change review workflow | ✅          | Extensive        |

## Further Readings

- [Top Free, Open Source SQL Clients to Make Database Management Easier](/blog/top-open-source-sql-clients/)
- [Top MySQL GUI Clients](/blog/top-mysql-gui-client/#the-old-school-phpmyadmin)
- [Top Database Schema Migration Tools](/blog/top-database-schema-change-tool-evolution/)
- [Top MySQL Schema Compare Tool to Diff and Sync Database](/blog/top-mysql-schema-compare-tools/)
- [How to install MySQL Client on Mac, Ubuntu, CentOS, Windows](/reference/mysql/how-to/how-to-install-mysql-client-on-mac-ubuntu-centos-windows/) (in case you don't feel like using any GUI at all)


If you work exclusively with MySQL, MySQL Workbench is an excellent choice for a database GUI, but if you work with multiple databases, you need to look elsewhere. This article highlights five database GUI alternatives for MySQL Workbench.

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