QuackDB and Beekeeper Studio
Beekeeper Studio is a cross-platform SQL editor and database manager built with web technologies, with an open source community edition and paid editions. QuackDB is a native macOS database client for SQLite, PostgreSQL, MySQL, SQL Server and Supabase. Choosing a database client is a bet on how you will spend many hours a week, so this page sets out honestly where the two differ and who each one suits.
At a glance
Platform
QuackDBmacOS only
Beekeeper StudiomacOS, Windows and Linux
Built with
QuackDBSwift, SwiftUI and AppKit
Beekeeper StudioWeb technologies in a desktop shell
Databases
QuackDBSQLite, PostgreSQL, MySQL, SQL Server, Supabase
Beekeeper StudioA broad set of SQL databases
Source
QuackDBProprietary
Beekeeper StudioOpen source community edition
Licensing
QuackDBAvailable on the Mac App Store; the previous version is free
Beekeeper StudioFree community edition and paid editions
Platforms and databases side by side
QuackDB, runs on
- macOS: Supported
- Windows: Not supported
- Linux: Not supported
QuackDB, databases
- SQLite: Supported
- PostgreSQL: Supported
- MySQL: Supported
- SQL Server: Supported
- Supabase: Supported
Beekeeper Studio, runs on
- macOS: Supported
- Windows: Supported
- Linux: Supported
Beekeeper Studio, databases
- SQLite: Supported
- PostgreSQL: Supported
- MySQL: Supported
- SQL Server: Supported
- Supabase: Supported
Filled means supported. A crossed out name means the tool does not list that platform or engine. Supabase is PostgreSQL underneath. Based on each vendor's public description.
Choose Beekeeper Studio if
- You want an open source tool you can inspect and extend.
- You need the same application on macOS, Windows and Linux.
- You need a database engine QuackDB does not list.
Choose QuackDB if
- You want an application built natively for macOS.
- You value a consistent interface across the engines you use.
- You use SQLite, PostgreSQL, MySQL, SQL Server or Supabase on a Mac.
Information about Beekeeper Studio comes from publicly available descriptions and may change. Check the vendor's website for current details. Reviewed October 2026.