SQL editors are essential tools for database developers and administrators, making it easier to write, test, and optimize SQL queries. While there are many commercial options available, free and open-source SQL editors provide powerful functionality without the cost.
Beekeeper Studio Is A Free & Open Source Database GUI
Best SQL query & editor tool I have ever used. It provides everything I need to manage my database. - ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Mit
Beekeeper Studio is fast, intuitive, and easy to use. Beekeeper supports loads of databases, and works great on Windows, Mac and Linux.
Let’s explore the 5 best free and open-source SQL editors available in 2025.
Beekeeper Studio Community Edition
Available for Windows, MacOS, and Linux - download here
Beekeeper Studio is a modern, cross-platform SQL editor with a clean interface and powerful features. It supports multiple databases including MySQL, PostgreSQL, SQLite, SQL Server, and more.
Beekeeper Studio has the most pleasant UI of any SQL tool I’ve used. It just makes sense. - Kevin
Beekeeper Studio’s SQL editor includes syntax highlighting, auto-completion, query formatting, and multi-query execution. It also offers a table data editor, database schema editing tools, and a connection manager for quick access to your databases.
What truly sets Beekeeper Studio apart is its thoughtful design that balances simplicity with powerful features. It’s perfect for both beginners and experienced developers who want an efficient, distraction-free environment for SQL development.
Beekeeper Studio also offers a commercial paid version with additional features like import/export and multi-device syncing.
Beekeeper Studio Links
Visual Studio Code + SQL Extensions
Available for Windows, MacOS, and Linux
Visual Studio Code is one of the most popular code editors, and with SQL extensions, it becomes a powerful SQL editor as well. The key advantage is that you can use your familiar editor for SQL development alongside other programming languages.
Popular SQL extensions for VS Code include “SQL Server (mssql)”, “SQLTools”, and “PostgreSQL”. These extensions bring features like syntax highlighting, IntelliSense, query execution, and result visualization to VS Code.
If you’re already using VS Code as part of your development workflow, adding SQL capabilities through extensions provides a seamless experience without needing a separate tool.
VS Code SQL Extensions Links
DBeaver Community Edition
Available for Windows, MacOS, and Linux
DBeaver Community Edition is a comprehensive open-source SQL editor and database administration tool. It supports virtually all major database systems including MySQL, PostgreSQL, Oracle, SQL Server, SQLite, and many more.
DBeaver features an advanced SQL editor with syntax highlighting, auto-completion, and query execution planning. It also includes database structure viewers, data editors, and tools for database management tasks like importing/exporting data and running database migrations.
While DBeaver’s interface can be complex compared to more streamlined alternatives, it makes up for this with its extensive feature set and broad database compatibility.
DBeaver Links
SQuirreL SQL Client
Available for Windows, MacOS, and Linux
SQuirreL SQL Client is a Java-based open-source SQL editor that connects to most JDBC-compliant databases. Its plugin architecture allows for considerable customization and extension of functionality.
The SQL editor in SQuirreL includes syntax highlighting, auto-completion, and bookmarking features. It also offers a graphical interface for database objects, making it easier to browse and understand database structures.
Being Java-based, SQuirreL runs on any platform with Java installed, making it highly portable. It’s particularly popular among developers who work with Java applications and databases.
SQuirreL SQL Client Links
HeidiSQL
Available for Windows
HeidiSQL is a lightweight yet powerful SQL editor primarily designed for Windows users. It supports MySQL, MariaDB, PostgreSQL, and Microsoft SQL Server.
HeidiSQL’s SQL editor includes syntax highlighting, auto-completion, and a tabbed interface for working with multiple queries. The query results are displayed in a grid view that allows for easy data editing and export to various formats.
One of HeidiSQL’s strengths is its portability—it can run without installation, making it convenient for developers who need to work on different machines.
HeidiSQL Links
Wrap Up
Free and open-source SQL editors have come a long way in 2025, offering features that rival their commercial counterparts. Beekeeper Studio stands out with its clean interface and powerful features across all major platforms, while tools like VS Code with SQL extensions provide integrated experiences for developers.
Whether you’re a database administrator, a developer, or a data analyst, there’s a free and open-source SQL editor that fits your workflow and requirements. Each tool offers unique advantages, whether it’s simplicity, power, or integration with other development tools.
If you have any questions or need help choosing the right SQL editor for your needs, feel free to reach out to me on Twitter / X.
