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Postico vs TablePlus
Which is the better database for Mac in 2026?
We compared Postico and TablePlus across 5 key factors including price, open-source status, and community adoption. For most users in 2026, Postico is the better choice because it's free. Read our full breakdown below.
Postico
GUI client for PostgreSQL databases
Free
VS
TablePlus
Modern, native database management tool
Visual Comparison
TablePlus
TablePlus — Official Website
Our Verdict
For most users in 2026, Postico is the better choice because it's free. However, TablePlus remains a solid option for users who prefer its unique features.
Feature Comparison
| Feature | Postico | TablePlus |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Free | Paid |
| Open Source | No | No |
| Monthly Installs | N/A | N/A |
| GitHub Stars | N/A | N/A |
| Category | Developer Tools | Developer Tools |
Quick Install
Postico
brew install --cask posticoTablePlus
brew install --cask tableplusLearn More
In-Depth Overview
What is Postico?
Postico is a modern macOS application designed specifically for PostgreSQL database development. It offers a clean and intuitive interface for managing PostgreSQL databases, running queries, exploring schemas, and manipulating data. Postico emphasizes simplicity and ease of use, making it a favorite among developers who prefer a native macOS experience. Its streamlined design focuses on core PostgreSQL functionalities, providing a fast and efficient workflow for common database tasks. While it primarily supports PostgreSQL, it delivers a highly polished experience tailored to the specific needs of PostgreSQL developers. In 2026, Postico remains a top choice for macOS PostgreSQL development due to its macOS integration, ease of use, and focus on core functionalities.
What is TablePlus?
TablePlus is a versatile database client with native support for multiple databases, including PostgreSQL, MySQL, SQL Server, SQLite, and more. It provides a comprehensive set of features for managing databases, running queries, visualizing schemas, and collaborating with team members. TablePlus is known for its customizable interface, plugin ecosystem, and advanced query tools, making it a powerful solution for diverse database environments. Its cross-platform compatibility (macOS, Windows, Linux) makes it a popular choice for teams working across different operating systems. In 2026, TablePlus continues to be a leading database client due to its broad database support, extensive features, and commitment to cross-platform development.
Detailed Feature Comparison
Database Support
CriticalPosticoLimited
Postico primarily focuses on PostgreSQL, offering excellent support and optimization for this database system. It lacks native support for other database types.
TablePlusExcellent
TablePlus supports a wide range of databases, including PostgreSQL, MySQL, SQL Server, SQLite, Redis, and more, making it a versatile choice for multi-database environments.
Verdict: TablePlus wins due to its broad database compatibility.
User Interface
HighPosticoExcellent
Postico boasts a clean, native macOS interface that is intuitive and easy to use. Its design emphasizes simplicity and focus, providing a streamlined experience for PostgreSQL development.
TablePlusGood
TablePlus offers a customizable interface with a modern design. While it provides a comprehensive set of features, the interface can be slightly more complex compared to Postico's minimalist approach.
Verdict: Postico's native macOS interface provides a more refined and intuitive experience for PostgreSQL users.
Query Editor
HighPosticoGood
Postico offers a basic query editor with syntax highlighting and autocompletion. It provides essential functionalities for running queries and viewing results.
TablePlusExcellent
TablePlus provides an advanced query editor with features like code completion, multiple tabs, query formatting, and history. It offers a more robust environment for complex query development.
Verdict: TablePlus's advanced query editor provides a more comprehensive set of tools for query development.
Schema Exploration
MediumPosticoExcellent
Postico provides an intuitive schema explorer for navigating database structures and viewing table relationships. Its visual design makes it easy to understand complex schemas.
TablePlusGood
TablePlus offers a schema explorer with similar functionalities, but the visual presentation may not be as refined as Postico's.
Verdict: Postico's schema explorer provides a more visually intuitive experience for exploring database structures.
Plugin Support
MediumPosticoLimited
Postico lacks native plugin support, limiting its extensibility compared to TablePlus.
TablePlusExcellent
TablePlus offers a plugin ecosystem that allows users to extend its functionalities with custom tools and integrations. This makes it highly customizable and adaptable to specific workflows.
Verdict: TablePlus's plugin support provides greater extensibility and customization options.
Data Manipulation
HighPosticoGood
Postico allows users to easily view and edit data within tables. It provides basic functionalities for inserting, updating, and deleting records.
TablePlusExcellent
TablePlus offers advanced data manipulation tools, including support for multiple data editors, filtering, and sorting. It provides a more powerful environment for managing data.
Verdict: TablePlus's data manipulation tools are more robust and provide greater flexibility.
Collaboration
MediumPosticoFair
Postico offers limited collaboration features, primarily focused on sharing connection settings. It lacks advanced features for team-based development.
TablePlusGood
TablePlus provides collaboration features like team sharing of connections and query snippets. It facilitates team-based database development and management.
Verdict: TablePlus offers better collaboration features for team-based database development.
Who Should Choose Which?
1Freelance PostgreSQL Developer
Postico
Postico's clean, distraction-free interface and laser focus on PostgreSQL make it the ideal tool for freelance developers who spend most of their time working with a single database engine. The native macOS design feels seamless on your MacBook, and the one-time purchase price means no recurring subscription eating into your freelance income. The visual schema explorer is particularly useful when onboarding to a new client's database, letting you quickly understand table relationships without writing exploratory queries.
2Database Administrator Managing Multiple Systems
TablePlus
If your daily work involves switching between PostgreSQL, MySQL, Redis, and SQLite databases across different projects or environments, TablePlus is the clear winner. Having a single application that handles all your database connections eliminates the need to learn and maintain separate tools for each engine. The ability to create organized connection groups and color-code them by environment (dev, staging, production) keeps you efficient when managing dozens of connections.
3macOS Enthusiast Who Values Native Design
Postico
Postico is built by Egger Apps, a solo developer known for crafting applications that feel indistinguishable from Apple's own software. If you care deeply about macOS design conventions—proper keyboard shortcuts, native text rendering, smooth animations, and a UI that respects the system accent color and appearance settings—Postico delivers a level of platform integration that cross-platform tools cannot match. It feels like Apple made a database client.
4Team Lead in a Diverse Database Environment
TablePlus
When your team works across PostgreSQL, MySQL, and SQL Server, standardizing on TablePlus means everyone uses the same tool regardless of which database they are querying. The shared connection and snippet features allow you to distribute pre-configured database connections to new team members, reducing onboarding friction. The cross-platform support also means your Windows and Linux colleagues can use the same application.
5Beginner Learning SQL and Databases
Postico
Postico's simplified interface removes the intimidation factor that comes with professional database tools. The visual table editor lets beginners see and edit data in a spreadsheet-like view without writing SQL, while the query editor provides syntax highlighting and error feedback when they are ready to write their first SELECT statement. The focused scope means there are fewer menus and options to confuse a new user.
6Data Scientist Doing Exploratory Analysis
TablePlus
Data scientists who need to run complex analytical queries, inspect large result sets, and frequently switch between different data sources will benefit from TablePlus's advanced query editor with multiple tabs, query history, and the ability to export results directly to CSV or JSON. The plugin ecosystem also supports specialized data inspection tools that are valuable for exploratory work.
7Solo Indie App Developer
Postico
If you are building an iOS or macOS app backed by a PostgreSQL database and you want a tool that matches the native quality of your own work, Postico is the perfect companion. Its lightweight resource usage means it can stay open alongside Xcode, the simulator, and your browser without competing for memory. The one-time purchase aligns well with the indie developer budget mindset.
Migration Guide
Postico → Tableplus
Migrating from Postico to TablePlus involves exporting connection settings and importing them into TablePlus. TablePlus supports a wide range of connection types, making the process relatively straightforward. However, custom queries and scripts may need to be manually transferred.
Tableplus → Postico
Migrating from TablePlus to Postico requires manually creating connections in Postico using the same settings as in TablePlus. Postico's focus on PostgreSQL simplifies the process, but users accustomed to TablePlus's broader database support may need to adjust their workflow.
Pro Tips
When migrating, ensure that all connection settings are accurately transferred, and test the new connections thoroughly. Consider exporting and importing data to verify data integrity.
Final Verdict
Overall Winner
Depends on use case
8.2/10
Winner
7.9/10
Runner-up
Postico and TablePlus are both excellent database clients for macOS, each offering unique strengths and catering to different user needs. Postico excels in simplicity and a native macOS feel, while TablePlus provides broader database support and advanced features. The choice depends on your specific requirements and preferences.
Bottom Line: Choose Postico for a streamlined PostgreSQL experience or TablePlus for versatile multi-database management.
Video Tutorials
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Frequently Asked Questions
Postico generally offers a simpler and more intuitive interface, making it easier for beginners to pick up. TablePlus, while still user-friendly, offers a wider range of features that may require a bit more learning.
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Related Technologies & Concepts
PosticoTablePlusPostgreSQLmacOSQuery EditorSchema ExplorationPlugin SupportData ManipulationCommunity SupportmacOS Interface
Postico (macOS database client for PostgreSQL), TablePlus (Cross-platform database client supporting multiple databases), PostgreSQL (Open-source relational database system), macOS (Operating system for Apple computers), Query Editor (Tool for writing and executing database queries), Schema Exploration (Tool for visualizing database structures), Plugin Support (Ability to extend application functionalities with custom tools), Data Manipulation (Tools for viewing, editing, and managing data), Community Support (Availability of resources, forums, and community-driven solutions), macOS Interface (User experience tailored to Apple's design guidelines)
Related Topics
Sources & References
Fact-CheckedLast verified: Feb 15, 2026
Key Verified Facts
- Postico is designed specifically for PostgreSQL.[postico-website]
- TablePlus supports multiple databases, including PostgreSQL, MySQL, and SQL Server.[tableplus-website]
- Postico offers a one-time purchase model.[postico-pricing]
- TablePlus offers subscription-based pricing.[tableplus-pricing]
- 1Postico Official Website
Accessed Feb 15, 2026
- 2TablePlus Official Website
Accessed Feb 15, 2026
- 3Postico Pricing Information
Accessed Feb 15, 2026
- 4TablePlus Pricing Information
Accessed Feb 15, 2026
Research queries: Postico vs TablePlus 2026; Postico PostgreSQL client; TablePlus multi-database client; macOS database client comparison