15 Best MS SQL Complete Tools (2024) [FREE DOWNLOAD]

1. Introduction

In a data-driven business environment, effective management and manipulation of data are key to the successful operation and decision-making in an organization. As part of this, the use of SQL Server Management tools has become a vital aspect in most businesses.

1.1 Importance of MS SQL Complete Tool

MS SQL Complete Tools play a significant role in database management. These tools not only assist in writing and formatting SQL code more efficiently, but they also offer crucial features such as autocomplete, hint functions, and debugging capabilities. They can increase productivity by reducing errors, augmenting database structure awareness, and accelerating the coding process. In a nutshell, a good MS SQL Complete Tool can significantly streamline the process of database management and development.

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1.3 Objectives of this Comparison

The objective of this article is to aid you in evaluating, comparing, and choosing the most suitable MS SQL Complete Tool for your organization or personal needs. It’s intended to offer an unbiased comparison of several popular and widely-used tools in terms of their benefits, drawbacks, features, and overall user experience. Through this comparison, you may find it easier to navigate the landscape of available options and select a SQL Complete Tool that matches your particular needs and preferences.

2. dbForge SQL Complete

dbForge SQL Complete is a widely-adopted SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS) and Visual Studio (VS) add-in that improves the SQL code development process. The primary feature set includes SQL code autocompletion, formatting, refactoring, and snippets, with superior features available in the standard edition.

Trusted by many, dbForge SQL Complete is a feature-rich tool that offers assistance with both basic and advanced SQL server tasks. Its offering of IntelliSense functionality and brilliant code completion makes for quicker and error-free coding. It streamlines the code writing process, significantly reducing turnaround time.

2.1 Pros

Code Completion: The tool offers advanced autocompletion, which can significantly reduce coding time and improve efficiency.
Code Refactoring: dbForge SQL Complete allows for easy, safe refactoring of SQL code. This comes in handy when striving to enhance code quality or attempting to make large-scale structural changes.
Support for Both SSMS and VS: dbForge SQL Complete seamlessly integrates into both SSMS and Visual Studio, making it a versatile tool for developers.

2.2 Cons

Limited Free Version: While the tool does provide a free version, some of the advanced features are only available in the paid version.
Performance Issues: Some users have reported performance issues when working with larger databases.
User Interface: The interface of the tool may seem a bit cluttered to users who are accustomed to more minimalist design approaches.

3. ApexSQL Complete

ApexSQL Complete is a productivity-enhancing tool for SQL Server Management Studio and Visual Studio. It automates numerous tasks to improve efficiency, reduces the chance for human errors, and speeds up the overall SQL coding process.

Primarily, ApexSQL Complete is lauded for its autocomplete feature that predicts and populates SQL code as you type, reducing keystrokes and ensuring accuracy. It incorporates a vast collection of SQL snippets and supports object scripting. The tool also ensures safer SQL writing with warnings and notifications about questionable code practices.

3.1 Pros

Auto-completion: ApexSQL Complete excels at providing autocomplete options for your SQL code, including keywords, column names, and stored procedures, ensuring faster and error-free coding.
Format SQL Code: This tool automatically formats SQL code as you type, enhancing readability and standardization across your project.
Code Snippets Library: A comprehensive library of SQL snippets is provided for your convenience, enabling quicker code generation.

3.2 Cons

Sometimes Slow: Some users have complained about performance issues, specifically, the software becoming slow with larger databases.
Limited Customization: ApexSQL Complete lacks some customization options for developers who like to personalize the look and feel of their tools.
Limited Advanced Features: Some advanced features needed for complex tasks are absent.

4. SQL IntelliSense and Autocomplete in SSMS

SQL IntelliSense is an integrated component of SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS) that provides coding suggestions and fill options while you are inputting SQL code. It is designed to make writing SQL code faster and easier, and it has the potential to enhance productivity significantly.

The SQL IntelliSense and Autocomplete feature in SSMS is a broad-syntax parser that can provide users with context-appropriate code suggestions, helping to prevent syntax and clerical errors. By reducing the amount of manual code writing, it can significantly improve coding speed.

4.1 Pros

Seamless Autocomplete: SQL IntelliSense and Autocomplete in SSMS effectively and efficiently provides code suggestions and fill options while writing code, thus saving substantial amount of time.
Syntax Checker: The tool has built-in capabilities to check syntax errors, which can help to catch and correct mistakes on the fly.
Integrated Tool: As an integrated tool within SSMS, there’s no need for any separate installation or startup process.

4.2 Cons

Incomplete Code Autocompletion: The autocomplete function sometimes fails to suggest complex SQL statements.
Performance Issues: On sensitive systems or systems with significant database structures, SQL IntelliSense can become slow and thereby impact overall productivity.
Lack of Customization: There are few customization options available for SQL IntelliSense within SSMS, which may be a disadvantage for developers who prefer a personalized coding environment.

5. Azure Data Studio

Azure Data Studio, a product of Microsoft, is a cross-platform database tool for data professionals who use on-premises and cloud data platforms on Windows, MacOS, and Linux.

Azure Data Studio provides a modern editor experience with the convenience of customizable code snippets, code auto-suggestions, and popular keyboard shortcuts. Aiming to reduce repetitive tasks, it provides a smooth coding experience specially tailored to SQL Server users.

5.1 Pros

Cross-Platform: Azure Data Studio is platform independent; it can be used on Windows, MacOS, and Linux systems.
Integrated with Azure: Being a product of Microsoft, Azure Data Studio comes with native support for Azure SQL databases, making it a great choice for those heavily invested in the Azure ecosystem.
Modern User Interface: The tool boasts a streamlined, easy-to-use interface that makes it accessible to users of all experience levels.

5.2 Cons

Lacks Advanced Features: Compared to SSMS, Azure Data Studio misses out on some advanced features that some developers might require for complex tasks.
Documentation: There have been concerns about the lack of comprehensive documentation, which can cause difficulties for new users.
Unfamiliar Interface: For those who are used to traditional SQL Server tools, the interface of Azure Data Studio might take some getting used to.

6. RedGate SqlPrompt

RedGate SqlPrompt is another exceptional SQL Server tool that significantly enhances productivity in the domain of SQL coding.

The cornerstone of SqlPrompt is its ability to provide intelligent code completion, quick information, and code formatting. By reducing the time and effort required for manual coding, it provides users with an efficient coding experience.

6.1 Pros

Advanced IntelliSense: SqlPrompt offers an advanced IntelliSense feature that is capable of suggesting entire code fragments.
Code Analysis: Additionally, SqlPrompt offers inbuilt code analysis, a feature that can significantly reduce debugging time.
Code Snippet Library: The tool houses a library of pre-built diverse code snippets which can be used for quick code composition.

6.2 Cons

Pricing: RedGate SqlPrompt is a premium tool that doesn’t offer a free version. The pricing could be a bit high for small businesses or individual developers.
Performance Issues: Some users have reported slower performance on larger databases.
Complex User Interface: The interface, while powerful, can be a bit complicated for new or casual users.

7. MariaDB SQL Autocompletion and Introspection

MariaDB SQL Autocompletion and Introspection is a built-in feature in MariaDB platform that enhances the coding process, primarily by providing autocompletion and introspection.

Autocompletion in MariaDB significantly ramps up the pace of coding by suggesting SQL statements while coding, reducing typing demands. Introspection, on the other hand, gives the user insights about the database structure while working, simplifying various tasks.

7.1 Pros

Effective Autocompletion: MariaDB provides highly effective code autocompletion that can speed up coding tasks significantly.
Database Introspection: With the integrated introspection feature, developers can gain useful insights into the database structure conveniently.
Integrated into MariaDB: As part of the MariaDB platform, the autocompletion and introspection functionality doesn’t require any separate installation.

7.2 Cons

Lacks Advanced Features: The functionality may lack some of the more advanced capabilities offered by standalone SQL complete tools.
Learning Curve: The full utilization of MariaDB autocompletion and introspection functionality demands a certain learning and familiarization process.
Performance Issues: Similar to other SQL complete tools, certain performance issues might occur when working with larger databases.

8. DataGrip

DataGrip is a professional database IDE developed by JetBrains, offering an all-around tool for database developers and administrators with a focus on efficiency and convenience.

DataGrip provides advanced SQL coding assistance, such as smart code completion and on-the-fly error detection. It supports a vast selection of databases out of the box, making it a popular solution for developers and admins dealing with multiple databases.

8.1 Pros

Advanced Code Assistance: DataGrip offers many advanced features that can make writing SQL code quicker and less error-prone.
Multiple Database Support: The ability to handle a wide variety of databases is a huge plus, especially for those managing different databases.
Schema Visualization: DataGrip provides graphical tools for visualizing database schemas, greatly aiding understanding of complex database structures.

8.2 Cons

Expensive: DataGrip comes at a premium price, which may not be suitable for smaller businesses or individual developers.
Learning Curve: Owing to its numerous features and options, it takes time to fully understand and use DataGrip effectively.
Performance: Some users have reported that DataGrip can be slow when working with large databases.

9. DbVisualizer

DbVisualizer is a universal database tool designed for both developers and DBAs, providing a single interface to manage a multitude of databases.

DbVisualizer emphasizes simplicity and user-friendliness, along with robust functionality. Its features encompass everything from database browsing, SQL editing, and data management, to more advanced features such as database schema visualizations and import/export utilities.

9.1 Pros

Database Compatibility: DbVisualizer supports a wide array of databases, making it a multifaceted tool for developers working with multiple databases.
Intuitive User-Interface: The tool focuses on simplicity and user-friendliness, making it accessible to users of all experience levels.
Schema Visualizations: The ability to visualize database schema allows users to comprehend the intricate structures of databases more thoroughly.

9.2 Cons

Limited Free Version: Although a free version is available, it offers limited functionalities compared to the full version.
Learning Curve: Despite its emphasis on user-friendliness, DbVisualizer may still have a bit of a learning curve for users unfamiliar with database management principles.
Lacks Advanced Code Assistance: Unlike some of the other tools in this list, DbVisualizer doesn’t offer advanced SQL code auto-completion or IntelliSense features.

10. Altova DatabaseSpy

Altova DatabaseSpy is a versatile database design and database query tool that offers a range of functionalities for various database tasks.

Altova DatabaseSpy includes comprehensive tools for designing, editing, and browsing database schemas. It also provides a highly dynamic SQL editor with features like autocompletion, hints, and formatting. This multi-database tool truly strives to make data management considerably more efficient.

10.1 Pros

Database Design Functionality: The tool tightly integrates design tools and database querying, streamlining the development process.
Highly Dynamic SQL Editor: The SQL editor includes autocompletion, code snippets, and formatting, enhancing productivity.
Supports Multiple Databases: They offer support for all major databases, providing a comprehensive solution for managing diverse database systems.

10.2 Cons

Complex User Interface: With a broad set of features, the interface can be overwhelming to some users, particularly newbies.
Cost: Altova DatabaseSpy is a premium tool. For small businesses or individual users, it may be a bit pricey.
Steep Learning Curve: Due to a wide variety of features and functionalities, it may take considerable time and effort to fully master the tool.

11. RazorSQL SQL Editor

The RazorSQL SQL Editor is an intuitive tool packed with useful features for aiding developers with their SQL coding tasks.

RazorSQL SQL Editor offers a rich set of functionalities for easy database browsing, editing, and managing. With it, you can streamline SQL development processes and significantly improve coding speed and quality. It supports over 30 different databases, making it a versatile tool for developers.

11.1 Pros

Multi-Database Support: RazorSQL supports over 30 different types of databases, a significant plus point for teams or individuals working on various platforms.
Feature-Rich: Equipped with features such as code syntax highlighting, autocomplete, hints, and macros, RazorSQL provides an enhanced coding experience.
Database Conversion: Apart from creation and modification of SQL data, it can also convert databases, which can be extremely handy in specific use cases.

11.2 Cons

Outdated User Interface: Some users may find the user interface a bit outdated compared to other more modern SQL complete tools.
Cost: Although it offers a free trial, the complete version of RazorSQL is a premium tool that can be quite expensive for single users or small businesses.
Lacks Advanced Features: Despite the multitude of features, it still lacks some advanced options that other tools provide.

12. Postico SQL Editor

Postico SQL Editor is a simple yet powerful tool for MacOS users to manage their PostgreSQL databases.

Postico SQL Editor provides an interactive and intuitive user interface, making it easy for database professionals to navigate through their PostgreSQL databases. It offers features such as SQL autocomplete, inline editing, and filtering, favoring efficiency and simplicity.

12.1 Pros

User-Friendly Interface: With its simple and intuitive user interface, Postico is very approachable, even for those new to SQL or database management.
Designed for MacOS: The tool is designed specifically for MacOS, ensuring a seamless experience for MacOS users.
Effective SQL Autocomplete: Postico’s intelligent autocomplete functionality shortens coding time and reduces potential errors.

12.2 Cons

PostgreSQL Specific: Postico only caters to PostgreSQL database, which can be a serious limitation for developers who work with various databases.
No Windows or Linux Version: Postico currently does not have a version available for Windows or Linux systems.
Limited Advanced Features: Compared to some other SQL complete tools, Postico lacks advanced functionalities. For instance, it doesn’t support stored procedures or offer debugging tools.

13. Valentina SQL Editor – Autocomplete

Valentina SQL Editor is a powerful tool incorporated with Valentina Studio. It is a full-featured SQL editor that provides users with various functions such as syntax highlighting, error checking, and suggestions for object names in the databases, among other utilities. But what makes it stand out is its autocomplete feature, which collects different information and offers code completion as you type in SQL queries, enhancing coding speed and reducing typing errors.

13.1 Pros

High-Speed Autocomplete: Valentina SQL Editor’s autocomplete function is highly reactive, providing instant suggestions as the user types.
Multi-Database Support: It supports a wide array of databases, allowing users to work with virtually any database they choose.
Informative: While making suggestions, it provides additional database information which aids in writing accurate queries.

13.2 Cons

Steep Learning Curve: New users may find it slightly difficult to navigate due to its comprehensive feature set.
Limited Syntax Suggestions: Despite offering numerous benefits, it falls short in providing extensive syntax suggestions.

14. HeidiSQL SQL Auto-Complete

HeidiSQL is an open-source database management tool, highly appreciated for its simplicity and versatility. One notable feature of this tool is its SQL auto-complete function. The SQL editor in HeidiSQL seamlessly auto-completes as users type their SQL statements, reducing typing effort and increasing efficiency. With a user-friendly interface, it makes creating, editing, and managing databases much less daunting.

14.1 Pros

User-Friendly Interface: HeidiSQL has an intuitive and simple-to-navigate interface, making database management less overwhelming, even for novice users.
Multiple Connections: It allows managing multiple database connections simultaneously, streamlining workflows.
Open Source: Being open-source, it proves to be highly customizable and flexible to meet unique requirements.

14.2 Cons

Stability Issues: Some users have reported stability issues, especially when dealing with larger databases.
Limited Support: As an open-source tool, support in troubleshooting or resolving issues may be limited.

15. PopSQL SQL Auto-Complete

PopSQL is a modern SQL editor recognized for its collaborative features and sleek user interface. Its auto-complete functionality for SQL and dbt files speeds up query writing, making it perfect for data teams. From auto-suggesting SQL keywords, schema names, table names, to column names, it helps eradicate typing errors, and aids in more efficient coding.

15.1 Pros

Collaboration-Centric: PopSQL excels in teamwork functionality, allowing for seamless query sharing and collaboration.
Version control: The tool integrates with Git, thereby providing version control for SQL scripts.
Interactivity: Interactive query results enable users to click on a row to see a detail view, making exploring data easy.

15.2 Cons

Pricey: Compared to other similar tools, PopSQL can be on the higher end of the price spectrum.
Limited Support for Databases: Its support for database types is quite limited compared to other SQL editors.

16. DBeaver SQL Auto Complete

DBeaver is a universal database management tool renowned for its compatibility with all popular databases. The SQL Assist and auto-complete feature in DBeaver provides syntax highlighting, code suggestions, and auto-completion of SQL keywords and names of database objects as you type, making it a top-notch choice for efficient coding.

16.1 Pros

Universal Database Tool: DBeaver is compatible with all popular databases, making it a flexible option for various database needs.
Advanced Tools: It boasts advanced tools for database management, including ER diagrams, visual SQL builder, and import/export functions.
Customizable UI: User-interface is highly customizable, catering to the comfort of diverse users.

16.2 Cons

Overwhelming Options: While an advantage for some, the wealth of features can be overwhelming for beginner users.
Performance: Certain users report that it can be slightly slower, particularly with heavier databases.

17. Summary

In summarizing, we have covered an array of SQL Complete tools, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. The appropriate tool for your needs would typically depend on the nature of your project or development environment, personal coding habits, and budget constraints.

17.1 Overall Comparison Table

Tool	Features	Ease of Use	Price	Customer Support
dbForge SQL Complete	Advanced autocomplete, Code refactoring, Support for SSMS and VS	High	Paid Version Available	Good
ApexSQL Complete	Auto-completion, SQL code formatting, Code snippets library	High	Paid Version Available	Good
SQL IntelliSense and Autocomplete in SSMS	Autocomplete, Syntax checker	Medium	Free with SSMS	Good
Azure Data Studio	Modern UI, Multiple SQL Server tools support, Cross-platform	High	Free	Good
RedGate SqlPrompt	Advanced IntelliSense, Code analysis, Code snippets library	High	Paid	Good
MariaDB SQL Autocompletion and Introspection	Autocompletion, Introspection	Medium	Free	Good
DataGrip	Code assistance, Multiple database support, Schema visualization	High	Paid	Good
DbVisualizer	Database compatibility, Intuitive UI, Schema visualization	High	Free and Paid versions available	Good
Altova DatabaseSpy	Code assistance, Multiple Database Support, Database Design Functionality	High	Paid	Good
RazorSQL SQL Editor	Multi-Database Support, Code Assistance, Database Conversion	High	Free Trial and Paid versions available	Good
Postico SQL Editor	User-Friendly Interface, Designed for MacOS, Effective SQL Autocomplete	High	Paid	Good
Valentina SQL Editor – Autocomplete	High-speed autocomplete, multi-database support	Medium (steep learning curve)	Moderate	Good
HeidiSQL SQL Auto-Complete	Simple interface, multi-connection support	High	Low (open source)	Limited
PopSQL SQL Auto-Complete	Collaborative features, version control	High	High	Good
DBeaver SQL Auto Complete	Compatibility with popular databases, advanced management tools	Medium (can be overwhelming for beginners)	Moderate	Good

17.2 Recommended Tool Based on Various Needs

Based on this comparison, you might find that certain tools appeal more to your specific needs.

If you value advanced features and don’t mind paying for a premium tool, consider RazorSQL, RedGate SQLPrompt or DataGrip.
If you’re on a budget or just starting out, Azure Data Studio provides a good starting point.
If you code predominantly in PostgreSQL and are an MacOS user, Postico may be the best fit for you.

Always consider your specific requirements and constraints before making a final decision.

18. Conclusion

After an in-depth analysis of each SQL complete tool, it’s evident that each comes with its individual set of benefits and drawbacks. These tools are designed to accelerate SQL code writing and reduce mistakes, increasing your productivity while decreasing the time spent on manual coding.

18.1 Final Thoughts and Takeaways for Choosing an MS SQL Complete Tool

An important takeaway from this comparison is understanding that there isn’t a one-size-fits-all SQL complete tool. The best tool for you should align with your specific development needs, which can involve variables such as the nature of your projects, the databases you work with, your skill level, and your budget.

Therefore, it’s essential to experiment with different tools. Most offer trial periods or free versions, providing a risk-free avenue to find the tool that aligns with your personal and professional needs.

Also, remember to go through customer reviews and ask for recommendations from your colleagues or public forums to avoid common pitfalls.

In the end, equipped with the right SQL complete tool, the tedious task of writing SQL codes becomes immensely easier, and complex tasks seem less daunting.

Author Introduction:

Vera Chen is a data recovery expert in DataNumen, which provides a wide range of products, including product to recover PSD files.