Best Database Clients for Mac

Looking at real rows through psql, the mysql CLI or a hosted web dashboard is slow when you just want to browse, filter and edit a table.

Prices checked November 5, 2026 · 5 apps

Start with the databases you actually use: some clients cover a dozen engines, others do one well. Then check how the license works, since several are one-time purchases with a year of updates, and how fast the app feels with a large table open. Native Mac apps start faster than Java- or Electron-based ones; cross-platform tools support more engines.

Our pick

TablePlusPay once$99 one-time (1 device, 1 year of updates); free version limited to 2 tabs, 2 windows and 2 advanced filtersA fast native client for PostgreSQL, MySQL, SQLite, Redis and many more engines from one window, with inline editing and changes staged until you commit.Best for: Developers who touch several database engines and want one quick native app for all of them.Visit

Alternatives

Free and open source

DBeaver CommunityOpen sourceFree, open source (Apache 2.0); paid PRO editions are annual subscriptionsA cross-platform client that connects to almost any database with a JDBC driver, with ER diagrams, data export and a full SQL editor.Best for: Anyone who needs an obscure engine or a free tool with every feature, and can accept a heavier Java-based app.Visit DBeaver Community
Sequel AceOpen sourceFree, open source, on the Mac App StoreA native MySQL and MariaDB client, the maintained successor to Sequel Pro.Best for: MySQL and MariaDB users who want a free native app and do not need other engines.Visit Sequel Ace

Free to start

Beekeeper StudioFreemiumFree Community edition (GPLv3, for individuals and small businesses); paid plans from $9/month billed yearlyA clean cross-platform SQL editor and table browser for PostgreSQL, MySQL, SQLite, SQL Server, Redis and others; paid versions you received stay usable after a subscription ends.Best for: Individuals and small teams who want a friendly free SQL client that also runs on Windows and Linux.Visit Beekeeper Studio

Pay once

Postico 2Pay once$69 one-time personal license (up to 3 devices), $99 per device commercial; free evaluation with no time limitA native Mac client for PostgreSQL only, focused on browsing and editing tables and writing queries.Best for: Developers who work only with Postgres (including Neon or Supabase) and want the most Mac-like app for it.Visit Postico 2

Frequently asked questions

Is there a free database GUI for Mac?

Yes. DBeaver Community and Sequel Ace are free and open source, Beekeeper Studio's Community edition is free for individuals and small companies, and TablePlus has a free version limited to two tabs and two windows.

Is TablePlus a one-time purchase?

Yes. A license is $99 for one device and includes one year of updates; renewing updates after that costs $59 per device.

What is the best PostgreSQL client for Mac?

Postico 2 if you only use Postgres and want a native app; TablePlus if you also use other engines.