Postico and TablePlus alternatives

Updated September 19, 2026

The right Mac SQL client depends on your databases and daily tasks. Compare Postico, TablePlus, and Esploro before you choose.

I build Esploro. Each app has a different focus, and Esploro does not cover every database engine.

Compare the essentials

FeatureEsploroPostico 2TablePlus
PostgreSQLYesYesYes
MySQL / MariaDBYesNoYes
SQLiteNoNoYes
Open sourceMIT licenseNoNo
Apple Silicon buildYesYesYes

Sources: Postico, Postico licensing, and TablePlus. Reviewed September 19, 2026.

Postico: a PostgreSQL focus

Postico is a Mac app for PostgreSQL and compatible databases. It includes a query editor, table editing, and tools for database structure.

Postico offers a free evaluation license without a time limit. A paid license unlocks all features. It does not support MySQL or MariaDB.

TablePlus: more database engines

TablePlus supports PostgreSQL, MySQL, SQLite, and other engines. It also offers apps for operating systems beyond macOS.

Its features include table editing, filters, SQL import and export, and a query editor. The pricing page explains current license options.

Esploro: open source and built for Mac

Esploro combines PostgreSQL, MySQL, and MariaDB in one app. You can browse tables, edit rows, run SQL, and save queries.

Esploro table browser with five selected fictional order rows
We replaced the column names and row values with fictional data.

Table filters can produce SQL for reuse. You can also manage roles and table privileges. Esploro stores database passwords in macOS Keychain.

The source code uses the MIT license. Personal, non-commercial use is free. Paid work requires a commercial license.

Choose for your requirements

Postico suits PostgreSQL work on Mac. TablePlus covers more database engines. Esploro offers open source code and a focus on PostgreSQL and MySQL.

Esploro currently supports macOS 13 or later. Apple Silicon and Intel builds are available.

Download for Intel · macOS 13 or later

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