DBeaver vs Beekeeper - SQL Database Management Tools
Choosing best tool to write selects and do backups
New Linux Ubuntu 24.04 desktop edition has offered me to install Beekeeper Studio as SQL Editor and DB Manager tool. I was previously using DBeaver. OK. Let’s Compare DBeaver with Beekeeper Studio.
This nice image is generated by the model AI model Flux 1 dev.
TL;DR
TL;DR means too long, didn't read for those who don’t know…
Beekeeper studio is looking nice but still:
My choice of best DB management tool is still the same - DBeaver . Main advantages of the DBeaver in my eyes are:
- DBeaver can do backup and restore the SQL DBs
- DBeaver has better license (Apache) comparing to Beekeper Studio (GGPL3)
- In DBeaver you cen select output forma - grid or text. The text is better for copypasting. Don’t call it
advanced feature, Beekeeper, please… - Free Beekeeper Studio feels like intentionally cut version to push everyone to Pro one.
Detailed comparison of DBeaver and Beekeeper Studio
OK, here’s a detailed comparison of DBeaver and Beekeeper Studio, two popular database management tools:
Key Differences
| Feature | Beekeeper Studio | DBeaver |
|---|---|---|
| User Interface | Modern, user-friendly, fast, and intuitive | Traditional, robust, may feel complex |
| Database Support | MySQL, PostgreSQL, SQLite, SQL Server, more | Relational & NoSQL (MongoDB, Cassandra, etc) |
| Query Editor | Intuitive, syntax highlighting, autocomplete | Comprehensive, execution plan visualization |
| Migration Tools | Streamlined, easy-to-use migration wizards | Supports migrations, less streamlined |
| Data Visualization | Basic charting, table previews | Advanced charts, dashboards, reports |
| Collaboration | Built-in collaboration for simultaneous work | No native collaboration; supports Git |
| Learning Curve | Minimal, easy to start | Moderate, more features to learn |
| Performance | Lightweight, fast | Can be slower due to feature density |
| License | Open source (GPLv3), free & paid tiers | Open source, free & paid versions |
Strengths
Beekeeper Studio
- Ease of Use: Designed for simplicity and speed, with a modern UI that feels like a code editor (similar to VSCode).
- Quick Start: Minimal learning curve, suitable for users who want to get work done without complex setup.
- Collaboration: Built-in tools for team-based database work.
- Privacy: No telemetry or tracking in the community edition.
DBeaver
- Feature Density: Extensive features for advanced users, including support for a wide range of database types (relational and NoSQL).
- Data Visualization: Advanced charting and reporting tools.
- Version Control: Integration with Git for team collaboration via code repositories.
- Universal Support: Broad compatibility with obscure or legacy databases via JDBC.
Use Cases
- Choose Beekeeper Studio if you prioritize a fast, modern, and easy-to-use tool for SQL work, especially if you work with mainstream databases and value collaboration and privacy.
- Choose DBeaver if you need support for a wide variety of databases (including NoSQL), advanced data visualization, or integration with version control systems.
DBeaver offers superior support for NoSQL databases—including both Redis and MongoDB—compared to Beekeeper Studio.
- DBeaver: Supports a wide range of NoSQL databases such as MongoDB, Cassandra, Redis (via JDBC or plugins), and more. Its advanced database management features, including schema browsing, query building, and data visualization, make it a strong choice for users who need to work with various NoSQL solutions. DBeaver’s extensions and plugins further enhance its compatibility with these databases.
- Beekeeper Studio: Primarily focused on relational databases (e.g., MySQL, PostgreSQL, SQLite, SQL Server). While it is user-friendly and modern, current versions do not provide native or robust support for NoSQL databases like MongoDB or Redis.
Summary
Beekeeper Studio offers a more user-friendly and streamlined experience, while DBeaver provides broader database support and advanced features at the cost of a steeper learning curve. The choice depends on your workflow, database needs, and preference for simplicity versus feature richness. If your primary need is working with NoSQL databases such as Redis and MongoDB, DBeaver is the better choice. Beekeeper Studio is more suitable for relational database management.
And I like DBeaver more.
