Which databases does TablePlus support on macOS?

TablePlus boasts extensive support for a wide array of database systems, making it a versatile tool for diverse development environments. On macOS, it fully supports popular relational databases such as MySQL, PostgreSQL, SQLite, Microsoft SQL Server, and MariaDB. Beyond relational databases, it also offers robust compatibility with NoSQL databases like Redis and MongoDB (currently in beta). Furthermore, TablePlus extends its reach to specialized databases including Amazon Redshift, CockroachDB, Vertica, Oracle (macOS only), Snowflake, Cassandra, and even those using similar protocols. This broad compatibility ensures that most developers can manage all their primary data stores from a single, consistent GUI.

How does TablePlus ensure the security of my database connections?

TablePlus places a strong emphasis on connection security, implementing several robust measures to protect user data. It utilizes native libssh and TLS (Transport Layer Security) encryption protocols to establish secure and encrypted connections between your macOS client and the database server. This end-to-end encryption prevents unauthorized interception of data in transit. Crucially, TablePlus does not store or sync any of your database credentials or data to its own servers; all sensitive connection information is securely kept on your local device, typically within macOS Keychain, ensuring that only you have access to your credentials.

Can TablePlus be used for managing NoSQL databases like MongoDB or Redis?

Yes, TablePlus extends its management capabilities beyond traditional relational databases to include popular NoSQL solutions. It offers full support for Redis, a widely used in-memory data structure store, allowing developers to inspect and manage Redis keys and data. Additionally, TablePlus provides beta support for MongoDB, a leading NoSQL document database, enabling users to browse collections, query documents, and perform basic management tasks. This growing support for NoSQL databases makes TablePlus a more comprehensive tool for modern application development, where polyglot persistence is increasingly common.

What are the minimum system requirements for running TablePlus on macOS?

TablePlus is designed to be lightweight and efficient, ensuring good performance even on older macOS hardware. The minimum operating system requirement for TablePlus on macOS is typically macOS 10.13 (High Sierra) or later. It supports both Intel-based Macs and Apple Silicon (M1/M2/M3) chips, offering native ARM compatibility for optimal performance on newer machines. While specific RAM and disk space requirements are minimal (e.g., 512 MB RAM and 50 MB free space as per older versions), having more resources will naturally enhance the experience, especially when dealing with very large datasets or complex queries.

Does TablePlus support plugins or extensions for added functionality?

Yes, TablePlus offers extensibility through a plugin system, allowing users to add custom functionality and tailor the tool to their specific needs. This feature is currently in beta testing but provides a powerful way to enhance TablePlus's capabilities. Developers can write their own plugins using JavaScript or leverage a growing number of community-contributed plugins. Examples include SQL formatters, UUID generators, and other utilities that streamline common database development tasks. This extensibility ensures that TablePlus can adapt to evolving workflows and integrate with specialized tools, making it a highly flexible database management solution.

How does TablePlus compare to DBeaver, a popular open-source alternative?

TablePlus and DBeaver cater to slightly different user preferences, though both are excellent database management tools. TablePlus is renowned for its native macOS performance, sleek UI, and focus on speed and simplicity, making it a favorite for Mac-centric developers who prioritize a highly responsive and aesthetically pleasing experience. DBeaver, being open-source and Java-based, offers unparalleled cross-platform compatibility and supports a much wider range of databases through JDBC drivers, often with more advanced administrative features like ER diagrams and data migration tools. While DBeaver can feel heavier and less 'native' on macOS, its extensive feature set and open-source nature appeal to users needing maximum flexibility and broad database coverage, often at no cost for the community edition.

What is 'Safe Mode' in TablePlus and how does it protect my data?

TablePlus includes a 'Safe Mode' feature designed to prevent accidental data loss or critical errors, particularly when working with production databases. When enabled, Safe Mode acts as a safeguard by prompting users for confirmation before executing potentially destructive operations, such as `DELETE` statements without a `WHERE` clause or `DROP TABLE` commands. Some implementations might also limit `SELECT` queries to a certain number of rows by default to prevent accidental large data fetches that could strain the database or the client. This feature is invaluable for developers and DBAs, providing an extra layer of protection and peace of mind when manipulating sensitive data or making schema changes in live environments.

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TablePlus

Modern, native database management tool

Developer Tools

TablePlus screenshot — TablePlus — Official Website

Quick Take: TablePlus

4.7

TablePlus stands out as an exceptional native database management GUI for macOS, delivering a near-perfect blend of performance, elegance, and functionality. Its native architecture ensures a lightning-fast and responsive experience, which is a significant advantage over many cross-platform, Electron-based tools. The intuitive UI, extensive database support, and powerful SQL editor make complex database tasks surprisingly straightforward. While its per-device licensing and annual update model might be a consideration for large teams, the overall value proposition for individual developers and small to medium-sized teams on macOS is outstanding. It prioritizes the essentials without sacrificing advanced features, making it a highly productive tool.

Best For

•macOS developers prioritizing native performance and a clean UI
•Full-stack engineers managing diverse database types (SQL & NoSQL)
•Database administrators seeking secure and efficient daily management tools

Install with Homebrew

brew install --cask tableplus

What is TablePlus?

TablePlus is a cutting-edge, native database management GUI designed specifically for macOS, offering a sleek, intuitive, and high-performance experience for developers and power users. Launched with a strong focus on native development, it leverages macOS technologies (Swift, Objective-C, C/C++) to deliver exceptional speed and responsiveness, distinguishing itself from slower, Electron-based alternatives. Its core purpose is to streamline database interactions, enabling users to efficiently query, edit, and manage a wide array of relational and NoSQL databases, including MySQL, PostgreSQL, SQLite, Redis, MongoDB, Microsoft SQL Server, MariaDB, CockroachDB, and Amazon Redshift. TablePlus is built on a philosophy of simplicity and security, featuring a minimalist interface that prioritizes essential functionalities while ensuring data integrity through robust encryption like libssh and TLS. It has rapidly gained traction within the developer community for its thoughtful UI, extensive shortcut support, and consistent updates, making complex database tasks feel effortless and integrated into the macOS ecosystem.

Deep Dive: TablePlus

TablePlus is a modern, native database management GUI for macOS that emphasizes speed, intuitive design, and robust functionality. It offers a clean interface for interacting with various relational and NoSQL databases, streamlining tasks for developers, DBAs, and data analysts. Its focus on performance and user experience has made it a popular choice in the database tool landscape.

History & Background

TablePlus was founded by Henry Pham, launching its macOS version in July 2017. The motivation stemmed from a personal need for a faster, more intuitive, and native SQL client than existing options, which were often considered outdated or clunky. From its inception, TablePlus aimed to be lightweight, performant, and reliable. Initially an macOS-exclusive application, it quickly gained traction through word-of-mouth within the developer community due to its focus on user satisfaction and frequent updates. This rapid adoption and a commitment to listening to user feedback have been key milestones in its growth, leading to a strong community without significant marketing spend.

How It Works

TablePlus for Mac is built natively using Swift, Objective-C, and C/C++, contributing to its lightweight nature and high performance. This native architecture allows it to integrate seamlessly with macOS features, providing a fluid and responsive user experience. The application prioritizes efficiency, capable of handling large datasets and executing queries at high speeds without performance degradation, even with millions of records. Database credentials are securely stored locally on the user's device, not on TablePlus servers, emphasizing a commitment to security and privacy. It supports macOS 10.11 and newer versions, ensuring compatibility with a broad range of Mac hardware.

Ecosystem & Integrations

TablePlus boasts an expanding ecosystem primarily driven by its plugin architecture and broad database support. It supports a wide array of databases including PostgreSQL, MySQL, SQLite, Microsoft SQL Server, Redis, Oracle (on macOS), and more, allowing users to manage diverse database environments from a single application. The platform offers limitless extensibility through plugins, which can be written in JavaScript. These plugins enhance functionality, providing tools for SQL formatting, data manipulation (like Unix timestamp conversion or UUID generation), and diagram generation. Both official TablePlus Inc. plugins and third-party contributions are available, with a straightforward installation process through the in-app Plugin Manager. This open approach to extensions allows users to tailor TablePlus to their specific workflows.

Future Development

TablePlus maintains a rapid development cycle, with weekly updates that include bug fixes and new features. Recent updates in late 2025 and early 2026 have focused on optimizing for new macOS versions, such as macOS Tahoe, and improving data grid performance, showing a continuous commitment to macOS integration and efficiency. There have also been updates to specific database drivers and fixes for various bugs. Looking ahead, the roadmap continues to prioritize expanding support for more database drivers and further enhancing the plugin system, enabling developers to build even more custom tools and integrations.

Key Features

Native Performance & Elegant UI

Built natively for macOS using Swift and Objective-C, TablePlus delivers unparalleled speed and a smooth user experience. Its minimalist and thoughtful design seamlessly integrates with the Apple ecosystem, providing a clean, focused environment that eliminates unnecessary clutter, allowing users to concentrate on their data management tasks without lag or distraction.

Multi-Database Support

TablePlus offers extensive compatibility, supporting a broad spectrum of popular databases. This includes relational powerhouses like MySQL, PostgreSQL, Microsoft SQL Server, MariaDB, and SQLite, alongside NoSQL options such as Redis and MongoDB. This wide support allows developers to manage diverse database environments from a single, unified application.

Smart SQL Editor

The integrated SQL editor is a core strength, featuring syntax highlighting, intelligent autocomplete, and multi-tab/split-pane functionality. It supports writing and executing multiple queries, displaying results in separate tabs for easy comparison, and includes SQL formatting tools to enhance readability and maintainability of complex queries.

Inline Editing & Data Filtering

Users can directly edit data rows and table structures within a spreadsheet-like interface, with changes automatically generating corresponding SQL statements for review. Coupled with powerful advanced filters, this enables rapid data manipulation and quick identification of specific records without needing to write complex queries.

Secure Connections & Code Review

TablePlus prioritizes security by encrypting connections with native libssh and TLS, ensuring data privacy and integrity. It also includes a robust code review feature that tracks and displays all changes made to the database, providing developers with full control and an audit trail of their modifications.

Who Should Use TablePlus?

1Full-stack Web Developer

A full-stack developer working on a web application needs to frequently interact with both a PostgreSQL database for core application data and a Redis instance for caching. TablePlus allows them to quickly switch between these connections, run complex SQL queries, inspect cached data, and make schema changes directly from their macOS machine. Its native speed and intuitive interface ensure that database tasks don't become a bottleneck in their rapid development workflow, integrating seamlessly with their other development tools.

2Database Administrator (DBA)

A DBA is responsible for managing multiple production and staging databases across various clients, often involving MySQL and Microsoft SQL Server. With TablePlus, they can establish secure SSH-tunneled connections to remote servers, monitor database health, perform quick data integrity checks, and execute critical DDL/DML statements. The code review feature provides an essential safety net, allowing them to verify changes before committing, minimizing the risk of errors in live environments.

3Data Analyst / Business Intelligence Specialist

A data analyst regularly extracts, transforms, and loads data from a company's Amazon Redshift data warehouse for reporting and analysis. They leverage TablePlus's powerful data filtering capabilities and the ability to view query results in multiple tabs to quickly explore datasets and compare different query outputs. The efficient export options allow them to easily move refined data into their preferred analysis tools, speeding up their reporting cycles.

Install TablePlus on Mac

Installing TablePlus on macOS is straightforward, offering both a direct download for immediate use and a Homebrew Cask option for package manager enthusiasts. Homebrew is the recommended method for developers who prefer command-line installations and easy updates.

Install Homebrew (if not already installed)

Open your Terminal application (found in Applications/Utilities) and paste the following command. Press Enter and follow the on-screen prompts to complete the installation of Homebrew, which may include installing Xcode Command Line Tools. `/bin/bash -c "$(curl -fsSL https://raw.githubusercontent.com/Homebrew/install/HEAD/install.sh)"`

Install TablePlus via Homebrew Cask

Once Homebrew is installed, you can install TablePlus with a single command in your Terminal. This will download and install the latest stable version of the application. `brew install --cask tableplus`

Direct Download (Alternative)

If you prefer not to use Homebrew, you can download the `.dmg` file directly from the official TablePlus website. After downloading, open the `.dmg` file and drag the TablePlus application into your Applications folder.

Pro Tips

• After installing via Homebrew, run `brew update && brew upgrade --cask tableplus` periodically to keep TablePlus up-to-date.
• For direct downloads, consider signing up for the TablePlus newsletter to receive notifications about new releases and updates.

Configuration Tips

Customize Your Interface with Themes and Appearance Settings

TablePlus offers extensive customization options to tailor its appearance to your preference. Navigate to `TablePlus > Preferences > Appearance` to switch between light and dark themes, adjust font sizes, and modify syntax highlighting colors. For further personalization, explore community-contributed themes or even create your own, such as the popular Dracula theme, to enhance visual comfort during long coding sessions. This helps reduce eye strain and aligns the app with your overall macOS aesthetic.

Master Keyboard Shortcuts for Enhanced Productivity

TablePlus is built with keyboard-centric workflows in mind, offering a vast array of shortcuts to speed up common tasks. Familiarize yourself with key combinations like `⌘ + P` for 'Open Anything' (quickly jump to tables, databases, views), `⌘ + E` to open the SQL Query editor, and `⌘ + S` to commit changes. You can view and customize shortcuts in `TablePlus > Preferences > Shortcuts` to match your existing muscle memory, significantly boosting your efficiency by keeping your hands on the keyboard.

Efficiently Manage Multiple Connections and Tabs

For developers working with numerous databases, effectively managing connections is crucial. TablePlus allows you to organize connections with color-coded tags for easy identification (e.g., 'dev', 'staging', 'production'). Utilize multiple tabs and windows (`⌘ + Click` on a table to open in a new tab, or drag tabs to create new windows) to simultaneously view and interact with different database objects or even entirely separate database instances, maintaining a clear and organized workspace.

Alternatives to TablePlus

While TablePlus excels in native macOS performance and a clean UI, several other robust database management tools offer compelling alternatives, each with its unique strengths and target audience.

DBeaver

Beekeeper Studio

DataGrip

Pricing

Freemium / Paid (Perpetual License)

TablePlus operates on a freemium model, offering a free version with certain limitations and a paid perpetual license for full functionality. The free version allows users to experience the application with restrictions such as a maximum of 2 opened tabs, 2 opened windows, and 2 advanced filters at a time; this free trial does not expire. The paid 'Basic' license is a one-time purchase, typically priced at $99 USD per license for 1 device, granting perpetual use and unlocking all premium features. This license includes one year of free updates. After the initial year, users can continue using their purchased version indefinitely, but to receive further updates and access newer features, a renewal fee (often cheaper than a new license) is required. Team licenses are also available, starting with a minimum of 3 seats at $79 USD per seat. Prices may vary and VAT may apply depending on region.

Pros

✓Exceptional native performance and responsiveness on macOS.
✓Clean, intuitive, and highly customizable user interface.
✓Broad support for a wide range of relational and NoSQL databases.
✓Robust security features, including native libssh and TLS encryption.
✓Efficient SQL editor with autocomplete, syntax highlighting, and formatting.
✓Extensive keyboard shortcuts for a highly productive workflow.
✓Code review feature to track and verify database changes.
✓Active development with frequent updates and improvements.

Cons

✗Per-device licensing model can become costly for teams or multiple machines.
✗Updates are tied to a yearly renewal, after which a separate fee is needed for new versions.
✗Free version has significant limitations on active tabs, windows, and filters.
✗Lacks web-based UI or robust built-in team collaboration features found in some alternatives.
✗Less extensive advanced features (e.g., ER diagrams, visual query builders) compared to some full-fledged IDEs like DataGrip or DBeaver.
✗Community support primarily relies on GitHub issue trackers rather than dedicated forums.

Community & Support

TablePlus fosters an engaged community primarily through its active GitHub issue trackers, which serve as the main channels for reporting bugs, requesting new features, and providing feedback for macOS, Windows, and Linux versions. The official documentation provides comprehensive guides and FAQs to help users get started and troubleshoot common issues. For direct support, users can contact the TablePlus team via email. Additionally, TablePlus maintains a presence on social media platforms like Facebook and X (formerly Twitter) for announcements and community engagement. The development team is known for its quick response times and dedication to improving the application based on user feedback, shipping weekly updates and over a thousand improvements annually.

Video Tutorials

Getting Started with TablePlus

PlanetScale78.2K views

Install TABLEPLUS on MacOS and Connect to MySQL in Minutes!

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I love my database GUI #database #mysql #postgresql

PlanetScale • 56.1K views

TablePlus - Best HeidSQL alternative for Macos

Achour Meguenni • 10.4K views

Frequently Asked Questions about TablePlus

TablePlus offers a free version that functions as an indefinite trial, allowing users to experience its core functionalities without a time limit. However, this free version comes with specific usage restrictions designed to encourage upgrading to a paid license. These limitations typically include a maximum of two opened tabs, two opened windows, and two active advanced filters at any given time. While sufficient for light usage or evaluation, these restrictions can impede the workflow of power users or developers managing complex projects requiring simultaneous access to many database objects or detailed filtering. The paid perpetual license removes these limitations, providing unrestricted access to all premium features and one year of updates.

Our Verdict

4.7/5

Best for:macOS developers prioritizing native performance and a clean UIFull-stack engineers managing diverse database types (SQL & NoSQL)Database administrators seeking secure and efficient daily management tools

About the Author

Alex Chen

Senior Developer Tools Specialist

Code Editors & IDEsTerminal EmulatorsVersion Control Tools

12+ years in software development · Former senior engineer at tech startups

Related Technologies & Concepts

HomebrewMySQLPostgreSQLmacOSSwift/Objective-CSQL

Sources & References

Fact-Checked

Last verified: Feb 15, 2026

Key Verified Facts

TablePlus is available for macOS with Homebrew installation support[tableplus-official-website]
TablePlus supports Apple Silicon Macs natively[tableplus-pros-cons-alvarotrigo]

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TablePlus | Modern, Native Tool for Database Management
Accessed Feb 15, 2026
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TablePlus Documentation
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tableplus - Homebrew Formulae
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TablePlus/TablePlus - GitHub
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TablePlus Software Pricing & Plans 2025: Get the Lowest Price - Vendr
Accessed Feb 15, 2026
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The TablePlus GUI Tool — An In-Depth Review
Accessed Feb 15, 2026
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TablePlus: In-Depth Analysis of a Modern Cross-Platform Database Management Tool
Accessed Feb 15, 2026
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TablePlus Pros & Cons [Honest Review 2024]
Accessed Feb 15, 2026

Research queries: TablePlus official website; TablePlus features; TablePlus pricing; TablePlus alternatives; TablePlus Homebrew install macOS

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