11 BEST Free SQL Database Software (2025)

A Database is a systematic collection of data which supports storage and manipulation of information. It is usually managed by a Database Management System (DBMS). Data within a database is typically modeled in rows and columns in tables to make data querying and processing more efficient.

I have researched 38+ Best Free SQL Database Software, investing over 168 hours to create this well-researched guide. My in-depth and professional review covers both free and paid options, outlining the key features, pros and cons, and pricing. This comprehensive resource is a must-see for anyone looking to discover the most trusted database solutions. Read on to uncover exclusive and verified insights. Read more…

Best Database Software (Free & Paid): Top Picks!

Name	Platform	DB Capacity Limit	Link
👍 ManageEngine Applications Manager	Windows, macOS, and Linux	No limitation	Learn More
Microsoft SQL	Windows, Linux.	1 GB RAM & 10 GB database. 1 CPU.	Learn More
MySQL	Windows, Linux, Mac.	No limitation	Learn More
PostgreSQL	Windows, Linux, and Mac	No limitation	Learn More
mongodb	Windows, Linux, Mac.	No limitation	Learn More

1) ManageEngine Applications Manager

ManageEngine Applications Manager is a SQL database monitoring system that supports all Microsoft SQL database versions. I found that it monitors performance and health easily, ensuring everything works well. It helped me fix any issues in my SQL databases quickly. I recommend this tool for maintaining stable and efficient databases.

Features:

• Monitor and Application Monitoring: Grouping multiple monitors provides valuable perspective by offering enhanced insights across various applications, while monitoring individual applications ensures smooth operation with precise performance insights.
• Easy Setup: The easy setup process entails no additional hassle, making it one of the easiest solutions to implement.
• Technology Integration: The system integrates over 150 technologies, providing a seamless way to unify various platforms and tools.
• End-User Satisfaction Monitoring: Monitoring end-user satisfaction helps you improve service quality by gathering feedback on real-time experiences.
• Critical CPU Usage Alerts: This software triggers a critical alarm when CPU usage reaches 100%, helping prevent system crashes and performance degradation.
• Multilingual Interface: This software supports various languages, offering a versatile user interface that is perfect for global accessibility.

Visit ManageEngine >>

30-Days Free Trial

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2) Microsoft SQL

Microsoft SQL offers a phenomenal relational database platform that supports ANSI SQL standards. In my experience, its customized T-SQL version makes it top of the line for complex data handling. I found Microsoft SQL to be great for scalability and performance. It helps you solve the most demanding database tasks with ease and efficiency.

Features:

• Data Integration: This feature integrates both structured and unstructured data using the powerful combination of SQL Server and Spark.
• Scalability and Performance: It offers one of the best scalability and performance options for critical applications, data warehouses, and data lakes.
• Security: The tool provides advanced security features to avoid risks and ensure that your data is fully protected.
• Interactive Reporting: It allows me to access rich, interactive Power BI reports, great for making faster and better decisions.

Link: https://www.microsoft.com/en-in/sql-server

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3) MySQL

I particularly liked MySQL for its ability to support platforms such as Windows, Linux, and Mac OS. Throughout my assessment, I found it is one of the best tools for database management. I could see how its open-source nature is a great option for anyone who needs flexibility and control. In fact, it might be helpful to consider MySQL if you are aiming for a powerful and reliable database solution. MySQL can be used for packaged software, and business-critical systems and high-volume websites.

Platform: Linux, Windows, and Mac.

Languages: C, Java, SQL, C++, Perl, Python, Tcl, and PHP.

Cloud Version: Yes

Features:

• Scalability and Flexibility: This open-source database tool provides essential scalability and flexibility, making it one of the best solutions for growing projects.
• Web and Data Warehouse Strengths: I found this free online SQL database software perfect for data warehousing, and its web-based features are impressive.
• High Performance with Robust Transactional Support: This free Windows database tool allows you to achieve high performance, making it great for efficiently handling large-scale SQL tasks while providing robust transactional support, which is essential for developers.

Link: https://www.mysql.com/

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4) PostgreSQL

PostgreSQL is a powerful open source database system, and I appreciate how it serves both businesses and developers. This tool handles SQL for relational data and JSON for non-relational data with ease. It is great for anyone looking for a reliable free database, as it is backed by a skilled community of developers. PostgreSQL enables you to create custom data types and range of query methods. You can run a store procedure in different programming languages.

Platform: Mac, Windows, and Linux.

Languages: PL/Tcl, PL/pgSQL, PL/Python, and PL/Perl.

Cloud Version: No.

Features:

• Database Compatibility: PostgreSQL is compatible with various database platforms and supports all major languages and middleware, making integration easy.
• Server-Side Functionality: The tool includes mature server-side programming functionality, typically essential for robust enterprise-level applications.
• Replication Methods and Locking Mechanism: PostgreSQL supports both log-based and trigger-based replication with SSL encryption for secure data transfers, while its advanced locking mechanism ensures data consistency and prevents conflicts.
• Concurrency Control: The tool supports multi-version concurrency control, a great way to manage multiple transactions without locking.
• Client-Server Architecture: It allows you to work in a client-server network architecture, which is great for scalable applications.
• Data Federation: The platform allows linking with other data stores like NoSQL, acting as a federated hub for polyglot databases.

Link: https://www.postgresql.org/

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5) MongoDB

MongoDB is best free database options that I have come across. It is a document-oriented NoSQL database that is great for handling large amounts of data. I particularly appreciate that it is open source, which allows you to modify it as needed. In fact, during my research, I found it to be great for high-volume data storage. According to my review, it has been one of the most effective choices since it became popular in the mid-2000s.

MongoDB allows you to validate the document. It is not suitable for those applications having complex transactions. However, if you’re working with MongoDB and need tools to help you manage your data, you can check out the top MongoDB tools available.

Platform: Cross-platform

Languages: C#, C, Java, C++, Perl, Scala, Ruby, etc.

Cloud Version: Yes

Features:

• Cluster Management: You can fully automate the provisioning and management of complex, highly available, multi-node clusters with simple API calls. This solution is great for scaling effortlessly and managing demanding workloads.
• Data Restoration: It allows you to restore data quickly when needed, making it one of the easiest ways to ensure data availability.
• Monitoring and Alerts: It offers visualization, monitoring, and alerting on over 80 metrics that track your cluster’s health or integrate with third-party solutions, which is helpful to maintain high system reliability.
• Query Language: The tool offers a powerful query language that simplifies complex data retrieval operations, great for efficient data management tasks.
• Rich Document Storage: It uses rich JSON documents to store tables in a relational database, a great option for flexible data handling.
• Global Cloud Distribution: The tool allows you to create globally distributed clusters through MongoDB Atlas, a cloud database service, providing a seamless solution for scaling databases across geographically spread environments.

Link: https://www.mongodb.com/

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6) OrientDB

OrientDB is an excellent multi-model database that simplifies working with graphs and other data. I found that it significantly increased both performance and security. It helped me avoid the need for separate systems, which saved time. I suggest using OrientDB if you need a reliable solution that supports scalability and seamless integration. It is great for handling complex data needs in a remarkable way. OrientDB has the ability to do multi-master replication, shared data using clusters, and automate distributed queries and transactions.

Platform: Linux, Mac OS X, Windows, Solaris, and HP-UX

Languages: Java, PHP, Nodejs, .NET, Python, C, JavaScript, Ruby, Scala, Elixir, Android, Perl.

Cloud Version: Yes

Features:

• Unified Multi-Model API: This API allows you to deploy applications faster by supporting multiple models in a single framework.
• TinkerPop 3 Support: Great for ensuring quick and effective upgrades, this feature aims to optimize database performance using TinkerPop 3.
• Scalability and Performance: One of the best features, it is essential to consider the scalability and high performance this tool offers.
• Free Cloud Database: Great option if you aim to enhance query efficiency, offering an improved and optimized query planner.

Link: https://www.orientdb.org/

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7) MariaDB

MariaDB was created by the same developers who built MySQL, and I could access its powerful features for both small projects and large enterprises. During my analysis, I found that MariaDB is great for handling data processing needs. MariaDB is an alternate software to MySQL. It provides high scalability through easy integration.

Platform: Windows, Linux, and Mac.

Languages: C#, Java, C++, Python, etc.

Cloud Version: Yes

Features:

• License Compliance: It operates under GPL, BSD, or LGPL licenses, allowing you to choose the most suitable option.
• Storage Engine Integration: It comes with many storage engines, including high-performance ones that integrate with other database systems.
• Galera Cluster Technology: It is one of the best open-source database software, offering the advanced Galera cluster technology.
• Operating System & Language Support: I could easily run it on my preferred operating system with support for the programming languages I use.

Link: https://mariadb.org/

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8) SQLite

While conducting my evaluation of SQLite, I discovered it to be a superior choice for anyone looking for a database that is embedded and easy to deploy. It offered me everything I needed in terms of performance, without requiring any installation or server setup. In my opinion, SQLite is great for those who need simplicity but do not want to compromise on essential database features. I appreciate its ease of use and recommend it for smaller-scale projects that require fast implementation. SQLite is a C programming language library which offers self-contained, reliable and full-featured SQL database engine.

Platform: Blackberry, Symbian, Maemo, Android, MeeGo, WebOS, NetBSD, FreeBSD, illumos, Solaris 10, Windows, and Tizen.

Languages: C, C#, C++, Java, PHP, Python, Ruby, etc.

Cloud Version: Yes

Features:

• Lightweight System: SQLite is very lightweight compared to SQL Server or Oracle, making it a great option for smaller projects.
• In-Memory Library: It has an in-memory library that allows you to directly call and use it without any configuration. I found this feature helpful to avoid lengthy installation steps.
• Storage Flexibility: You do not need a dedicated server as SQLite stores the database directly on your computer’s hard disk. It is one of the best solutions for local storage needs.

Link: https://www.sqlite.org/index.html

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9) Cassandra

Cassandra offers a great solution for managing vast datasets. I tested this tool extensively, and I particularly liked how it allows data replication across several datacenters, which is required for failover strategies. It is a top choice for businesses dealing with distributed networks. Cassandra is for those people who want scalability and high availability without decreasing performance.

Platform: Cross-platform

Languages: SQL, Go, C++, Python, and Node JS

Cloud Version: Yes

Features:

• Data Replication: The system copies data to multiple nodes, providing a fault-tolerance mechanism aimed at ensuring data redundancy.
• Network Efficiency: Each node in the cluster operates independently, helping to avoid network bottlenecks for optimal performance.
• Third-Party Integration: The tool offers support for services and contracts from third-party vendors as required.
• Replication Mode: You can select between synchronous and asynchronous replication modes for updates, which allows you to optimize data handling based on your needs.

Link: http://cassandra.apache.org/

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10) Oracle

Oracle provides a self-repairing, self-securing database system that eliminates manual data management. I could access its features, and I particularly liked how reliable and secure it is. I noticed that this tool is smart, safe, and highly available, making it great for business growth. Oracle database stores and retrieve information. Database server solves the problem related to information management.

Platform: Windows and Linux

Languages: C++, COBOL, C, Java, Visual Basic, and Pl/SQL.

Cloud Version: Yes

Features:

• High-Performance Optimization: Oracle Cloud is optimized for high-performance database workloads, streaming workloads, and hyperscale big data solutions.
• Cloud Migration: You can easily migrate your existing systems to the Cloud, allowing you to scale operations efficiently.
• Custom Data Center Solutions: This free SQL software provides flexible services based on your operational needs to run Oracle Cloud in your data center.

Link: https://www.oracle.com/in/database/

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11) DynamoDB

Amazon DynamoDB is a top-notch nonrelational database system that I analyzed. The low latency is impressive and makes it ideal for large-scale operations. I appreciate the built-in security and memory caching it offers. I found it helpful that DynamoDB is serverless and scales automatically while backing up all important data for extra protection. DynamoDB is a document database and can be used for various purpose.

Platform: Cross-platform

Languages: Go, Node.js, Java, .NET, C#, Ruby, Python, PHP, and Perl.

Cloud Version: Yes

Features:

• Data Model Support: DynamoDB provides both key-value and document data models, offering one of the best flexible database options.
• Query Flexibility: DynamoDB allows you to create secondary indexes, providing the flexibility to query on any attribute, which is helpful to streamline your search.
• Performance Acceleration: Amazon DynamoDB Accelerator delivers fast read performance, aiming to enhance real-time data access and retrieval.
• Lambda Integration: DynamoDB integrates with AWS Lambda, allowing you to trigger automated tasks based on specific changes, which is a great option for automation.

Link: https://aws.amazon.com/dynamodb/

What is Database Software?

A Database Software is a tool or application that helps users to manage SQL server and database server infrastructure. The database programs allow users to configure, manage, monitor, and administer SQL servers and databases with ease. It is designed to extract information from databases. For crafting advanced SQL queries to retrieve specific data, you may find it beneficial to use one of the best SQL query builders available.

How Did We Choose Best Database Software?

At Guru99, we are committed to providing credible and accurate information. My research on 38+ Best Free SQL Database Software took over 168 hours, ensuring this guide is both thorough and reliable. I reviewed both free and paid options, covering key features, pros, and cons. When selecting the best database software, we focused on essential features that improve functionality and user experience. This guide highlights tools that are great for various use cases. It is important to pay attention to the elements that differentiate these tools, making them suitable for diverse needs.

• Functionality: We looked for software that offers robust features and ease of use, ensuring it is great for both beginners and experts.
• Scalability: According to our research, scalability is one of the most essential factors, as it allows you to grow without issues.
• Security: It is important to consider database tools that offer strong security features, providing peace of mind for businesses.
• Cost-Effectiveness: We aimed to include options that offer the most value without compromising on performance, making them great options.
• Support: Pay attention to tools with reliable customer support, which is helpful to resolve issues efficiently.

Verdict

If you are deciding which free SQL database software to work with, I have reviewed three top-rated options below. Here is my verdict to help you choose.

• ManageEngine Applications Manager is a superior choice for its ability to provide comprehensive database monitoring, allowing for seamless performance management and issue resolution.
• Microsoft SQL offers a robust platform that is ideal for managing large-scale data operations with powerful security and customizable features.
• MySQL is a reliable and cost-effective database solution with a user-friendly interface, offering an impressive range of features for both personal and business use.