Comparison · Database management tools

Beekeeper Studio vs TablePlus: which is better in 2026?

TablePlus ranks higher in our list of database management tools (#3 against #4, score 87.5 against 87.0), but the gap is small and the better choice depends on what you need.

  • 87.0
    Editorial score
    87.5
  • 3
    Platforms
    4
  • Yes
    Free to use
    Yes
  • Yes
    Open source
    No

Which should you choose?

Choose Beekeeper Studio if you want

SQL editing across several databases.

An SQL editor for several databases with a free GPLv3 Community edition. Ultimate features use a commercial source-available license, so budget for them if you need them.

Choose TablePlus if you want

Native client on Mac, Windows or Linux.

A native client with a free version limited to two tabs and two windows, and one-time licenses from $99. It suits people who want a native app and accept a paid license for full features.

The main differences

  • Only TablePlus runs on iOS.
  • Beekeeper Studio is open source; TablePlus is not.

Side by side

Beekeeper StudioTablePlus
Score87.087.5
Rank in list#4 of 8#3 of 8
PriceFree plan, paid upgradesCommunity edition free under GPLv3; Ultimate is a paid commercial licenseFree plan, paid upgradesFree version with limits; one-time licenses from $99
Free to useYesYes
Open sourceYesNo
PlatformsWindowsmacOSLinuxWindows, macOS, LinuxmacOSWindowsLinuxiOSmacOS, Windows, Linux, iOS
Made byNot statedTablePlus
DatabasesMySQL, Postgres, SQLite, SQL Server and moreMany SQL and NoSQL engines
Best forSQL editing across several databasesNative client on Mac, Windows or Linux
Strengths
  • Community edition is free under GPLv3
  • Syntax highlighting and auto-complete in the SQL editor
  • Native app for macOS, Windows and Linux
  • One-time licenses with no subscription
Limits
  • Paid Ultimate features use a commercial source-available license
  • Free version caps tabs and windows at two each
  • Full features need a paid license
LinksVisit site Visit site

Questions about Beekeeper Studio vs TablePlus

Is TablePlus better than Beekeeper Studio?
TablePlus ranks higher in our list of database management tools (#3 against #4, score 87.5 against 87.0), but the gap is small and the better choice depends on what you need. Beekeeper Studio is best for: sQL editing across several databases. TablePlus is best for: native client on Mac, Windows or Linux.
Which is cheaper, Beekeeper Studio or TablePlus?
Beekeeper Studio: Community edition free under GPLv3; Ultimate is a paid commercial license. TablePlus: Free version with limits; one-time licenses from $99.
Do Beekeeper Studio and TablePlus run on the same platforms?
Beekeeper Studio supports Windows, macOS, Linux. TablePlus supports macOS, Windows, Linux, iOS.