DearSQL vs DataGrip
A lightweight database client vs a full JetBrains IDE.
A lightweight database client vs a full JetBrains IDE.
Architecture & Performance
| feature | DearSQL | DataGrip |
|---|---|---|
| architecture | native (C++/ImGui) | Java (JetBrains platform) |
| startup time | instant | slow (JVM + indexing) |
| memory usage | low | high (1GB+) |
Database Support
| feature | DearSQL | DataGrip |
|---|---|---|
| SQLite | yes | yes |
| DuckDB | yes | yes |
| PostgreSQL | yes | yes |
| MySQL / MariaDB | yes | yes |
| MongoDB | yes | yes |
| Redis | yes | yes |
| Oracle | yes | yes |
| MSSQL | yes | yes |
| Redshift | yes | yes |
| Cassandra | yes | yes |
Platform Support
| feature | DearSQL | DataGrip |
|---|---|---|
| macOS | yes | yes |
| Linux | yes | yes |
| Windows | yes | yes |
Features
| feature | DearSQL | DataGrip |
|---|---|---|
| SSH tunneling | yes | yes |
| TLS/SSL | yes | yes |
| syntax highlighting | yes | yes |
| autocomplete | yes | yes |
| inline data editing | yes | yes |
| refactoring tools | no | yes |
| version control | no | yes |
| AI assistant | built-in | built-in (full quota is paid) |
| learning curve | low | moderate |
| app telemetry | crash reports only | opt-in (required on free license) |
Pricing
| feature | DearSQL | DataGrip |
|---|---|---|
| free tier | yes (10 connections) | non-commercial only |
| one-time purchase | $35 | no ($109/yr individual, $259/yr org) |
| subscription required | no | yes (fallback license after 12 months) |
Ready to try DearSQL?
FAQ
How much does DearSQL cost compared to DataGrip?
DearSQL is a $35 one-time purchase. DataGrip is a subscription: $109/year for individuals (cheaper in years 2 and 3) or $259/year per user for organizations. Over 3 years, DearSQL costs $35 vs $261 (individual) or $777 (organization) for DataGrip.
Is DearSQL less resource-intensive than DataGrip?
Significantly so. DearSQL is a native C++ app with instant startup and low memory usage. DataGrip is built on the JetBrains platform — it uses 1GB+ RAM and has slow startup due to JVM initialization and project indexing.
Is DearSQL a good DataGrip alternative?
Yes for most use cases. DearSQL covers query editing, schema browsing, inline data editing, and SSH tunneling without the IDE overhead or subscription cost. DataGrip offers more advanced features like code refactoring and VCS integration.
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* Last checked against DataGrip's own pages: pricing, features, non-commercial license, usage statistics. Got a correction? let us know.