7 SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS) alternatives for Mac

SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS) has been a favorite among Windows users for managing Microsoft SQL databases, offering a familiar interface that feels almost second nature to many. 

But when it comes to SSMS for Mac, things get a bit tricky — there’s no native macOS version, leaving those of us who live and breathe (like me!) SQL queries to explore other options. 

If you’re on the hunt for an SSMS alternative for Mac, rest assured there are plenty of tools out there that match your needs and provide a few extra perks along the way.

What is SSMS?

SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS) is an all-in-one tool developed by Microsoft to manage SQL server databases. With it, users can connect to, design, run SQL queries, and perform access-level-dependent database maintenance work. 

It’s fully compatible with MS SQL Server, Azure SQL Database, and Azure Synapse Analytics, making it a seriously good resource for developers, database administrators, and IT pros. 

A feature of SSMS that makes it useful for developers is its support for Windows Active Directory Domain Services (ADDS). This is especially important when a  Microsoft SQL database engine exclusively supports Windows Authentication rather than mixed mode on Windows Domain networks.

Is there an SSMS for Mac?

No, SSMS for macOS isn’t available as a native application. 

Microsoft has yet to release a MacOS version, which is likely due in part to business decisions but also because tools like SSMS rely heavily on Windows-specific technologies like Component Object Models (COM), ADDS, and SQL Server Native Client (SNAC). 

These libraries and frameworks are not cross-platform and would require Apple to re-engineer this functionality. 

But don’t worry — I’ve tested these SQL Server Management Studio on Mac alternatives and can confirm they offer comparable features to manage all popular SQL database types, including MySQL, Microsoft SQL, and PostgreSQL.

Learn more about how to install SQL Server for Mac.

Best SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS) alternatives for Mac

Want to keep using your Mac to manage SQL databases? I’ve handpicked these alternatives to keep you covered.

SQLPro Studio: Simple database software

SQLPro studio is a fully native macOS (yep, no Java!) database management app, and in my opinion, it outperforms SSMS in terms of functionality and its efficient interface. 

It works well with a wide range of SQL databases, including MS SQL (2005 and beyond), MySQL, PostgreSQL, SQLite, and Oracle. SQLPro is built for speed and simplicity but doesn’t leave anyone wanting for SSMS-like features. 

It can handle query execution, syntax highlighting, auto-completion, and table management. Plus, it works on most cloud databases, such as Azure SQL and Amazon RDS, making it a great option for developers and database admins. 

The only place it falls short is with advanced data visualization, so some users might want to look elsewhere for in-depth data analytics. 

• Pros: All SSMS features are in a much sleeker and faster app.
• Cons: It can’t create pretty graphics for stakeholders and managers.
• Pricing: Available on Setapp from $9.99/month.

Image source: sqlprostudio.com

TablePlus: Extensive database tool

TablePlus is a database client tool that keeps devs who value speed and efficiency in mind. First up, it features support for SQL databases, from MS SQL, SQLite, and Oracle to NoSQL types like MongoDB. 

It has resizable multi-tab configurations, an interface that looks the part, and simplified workflows with query syntax autocomplete. One feature I liked, in particular, was the alerting feature, which sends a gentle “Are you absolutely sure you want to commit this flawed statement to your production server?” nudge to help guard against accidental destructive commands. 

TablePlus also includes a few no-code query capabilities, letting users of all skill levels quickly retrieve the data they need without having to know complex SQL. However, I did notice a lack of manual rollback functionality, so handle your live databases with caution when using TablePlus. 

• Pros: Safe Mode for added production safety. 
• Cons: Reversing manual changes is not possible using the GUI.
• Pricing: Available on Setapp from $9.99/month.

Base: Simplified database creation

As far as SSMS macOS alternatives go, Base is great for users who need fast and dependable management for SQLite databases. It offers all the basics: schema viewing, table editing, and SQL query execution, while also providing advanced tools for adding and modifying columns and constraints without having to input CREATE TABLE commands manually. 

Base can also streamline data filtering by building SELECT queries with just a few clicks. The SQL editor retains SMSS functionality like syntax highlighting and auto-completion, making it a basic but powerful SQLite editor. 

• Pros: Lightweight and efficient with excellent import/export capabilities.
• Cons: It’s only for SQLite databases.
• Pricing: Available on Setapp from $9.99/month.

Azure Data Studio: Cross-platform data management 

For those who have grown used to the Visual Studio interface, Azure Data Studio is a cross-platform and powerful SQL Server Management Studio equivalent for Mac. 

When researching Azure Data Studio, I was pleasantly surprised to find it is forked from the original Visual Studio code and has been made open-source by Microsoft. It offers the same user-friendly interface and extensibility but has been fine-tuned for SQL database tasks. 

Azure Data Studio supports a wide variety of databases, including MS SQL, Azure SQL, and PostgreSQL, making it an almost perfect alternative for SSMS. Key features include a built-in Jupyter Notebook for in-depth analysis, customizable dashboards, and an extensive plugin ecosystem. 

All of this functionality does come at the cost of a steep learning curve, but for seasoned database pros, it’s a dream come true. 

• Pros: Open source.
• Cons: It’s hard to learn and more suited for advanced users.
• Pricing: Free.

Image source: learn.microsoft.com

DBeaver: SQL editor for everyone

DBeaver is a universal SQL management tool that’s known best for its truly extensive support of databases. It can connect to and manage MS SQL, MySQL, SQLite, and even less-known types like Pervasive SQL and Redshift. The open-source version is packed with the same features as SSMS, like a data editor, SQL editor, and database schema editor.

I think it’s also worth mentioning that the pro version of DBeaver supports enterprise-grade authentication like SAML, SSO, OKTA, and Kerberos, so it can be used in enterprise settings with cloud environments like AWS and Azure. 

• Pros: Supports nearly every SQL database in existence.
• Cons: The open-source version is prone to errors and glitches when handling heavy tasks.
• Pricing: From $11.00/month.

Navicat Premium: Multiple database connection

Navicat Premium is a high-end database management suite designed for analysts and database administrators that handle large datasets across multiple databases. It offers support for all popular SQL databases, including MySQL, Oracle, MongoDB, an,d yes, MS SQL too. 

Navicat offers advanced schema visualization, data modeling, and database migration, making it a business intelligence and database administrator’s dream. Its built-in business intelligence (BI) tools let users create absolutely stunning data presentations that are perfect for detailed reporting. 

• Pros: Stunning visualization features.
• Cons: It’s too expensive for occasional users.
• Pricing: From $39.99/month.

Image source: navicat.com

How to choose the best SQL Server Management Studio equivalent?

Picking the right SQL Server Management Studio for Mac starts with understanding your own needs, like workflow, and skipping over tools that add unnecessary complexity. Here’s a straightforward plan to find your perfect match:

• Identify the key features YOU need: Think about what matters to you. Do you really need advanced query editing? Are data visualizations required for your administration role? Make a list of the must-haves versus the nice-to-haves to help you zero in on what’s going to help your work.
• Check macOS compatibility: Just because an app says it’s compatible with macOS doesn’t mean it’s going to play nice once it’s installed. Look for native macOS apps, not just Java ports. Also, consider whether or not you may want an application to run on a Windows or Linux machine.
• Test with free trials:  Before clicking the “buy now” button, try out the app. Most tools, including the ones I’ve mentioned earlier, offer a free trial. Use these opportunities to get hands-on experience with their features and see if they actually deliver on their feature promises. 

Follow these steps, and you will find a tool that feels custom-fit for your SQL management tasks on macOS.

Find your ideal SSMS alternative for Mac

Now you’ve got a list of SQL Server Management Studio Alternatives that work on macOS, why not test a few with your development databases? With so many great options like SQLPro Studio, TablePlus, and Base, you can find the perfect app for your database management needs.

These three apps and 250+ more are available through a 7-day free trial of Setapp, which lets you explore these tools without any commitment. 

Whether your priority is getting access to an MS SQL Server from your Mac, advanced query editing, or cross-database compatibility, there’s an SSMS alternative for Mac ready to simplify your work and fit seamlessly into your workflow.