SQuirreL SQL for Mac

Quick summary

SQuirreL SQL is a free, open-source graphical client for managing SQL databases on macOS. It provides a visual environment for writing and running queries, inspecting schemas, and working with query results — all from a single interface that supports multiple simultaneous connections. The tool is suitable for both application developers and systems administrators who need a cross-database management utility.

Supported database engines

• Microsoft SQL Server — connect to MSSQL instances for querying and schema inspection.
• Oracle — access Oracle databases using appropriate drivers for administration and development.
• SQLite — work with local file-based databases for light-weight projects or testing.
• PostgreSQL — connect to Postgres servers for development and data analysis.
• MySQL — manage MySQL/MariaDB instances, run queries and export results.

Key capabilities

• Multi-connection management: keep several database sessions open at once and switch among them.
• SQL editing tools: a rich editor with autocomplete, inline hints and syntax coloring to speed up writing and troubleshooting queries.
• Schema and data browsing: navigate tables, views and indexes, and preview rows in an integrated grid view.
• Export options: save query outputs to CSV or Excel formats for reporting or further manipulation.
• Cross-platform plugins: extend the application with community-created add-ons to add features such as reverse engineering or model exports.

Extensibility and customization

SQuirreL’s plugin system allows users to tailor the application to specific workflows. Community contributors provide extensions that add utilities like ER diagram export, additional data viewers, and connectors for less-common database types. This modular approach makes it easy to add functionality without changing the core application.

Who should use it

• Application developers who need a lightweight GUI for running queries, exploring schemas, and debugging SQL.
• Database administrators and operations engineers who require a single tool to access multiple database platforms.
• Analysts who benefit from fast exports and tabular previews for data inspection.

Licensing and alternatives

SQuirreL SQL is distributed under an open-source license and is available at no charge. If you need different ergonomics or features, consider alternatives such as DBeaver, TablePlus, or DBVisualizer — each offers its own mix of UI design, enterprise features, and driver support.