7 MySQL GUI Tools to Boost Your Database Management in 2025

In the world of database management, MySQL is a key player for developers, database administrators, and IT professionals. Although many rely on MySQL Workbench as their main tool, there are plenty of other MySQL frontend tools that can make managing databases easier and more effective.

This guide will walk you through the best MySQL frontend tools, highlighting their ey features, pros, and cons. It will also introduce UI Bakery, an interesting choice for managing MySQL databases with ease.

MySQL Workbench

MySQL Workbench is the quintessential tool for MySQL database management, offering a robust suite for design, development, and administration.

Key features

• Developed by Oracle (MySQL maintainer).
• Integrated tools for modeling, SQL editing, visual query building, and performance monitoring.
• Cross-platform availability on Windows, macOS, and Linux.
• User-friendly and feature-rich with an intuitive interface.

Pros

• Comprehensive and well-integrated toolset.
• Visual query builder makes complex queries easier.
• Great for both beginners and advanced users.

Cons

• Can be slow at times, with occasional freezes.
• Some features are locked behind the premium version.

Pricing

• Free and premium versions available.

Available on

• Windows, macOS, Linux

phpMyAdmin

phpMyAdmin revolutionizes database management with its web-based interface, simplifying MySQL and MariaDB administration.

Key features

• Web-based, accessible from any device with a browser.
• Open-source with strong community support.
• No need for desktop installation, allowing remote control of databases.

Pros

• Easy to use for beginners.
• Highly customizable due to open-source nature.
• Fast and lightweight for basic tasks.

Cons

• Requires a web server with PHP installed.
• Security concerns, as it runs on the web and can be vulnerable if not configured properly.

Pricing

• Free

Available on

• Web-based, accessible on any OS with a web browser

HeidiSQL

HeidiSQL offers a user-friendly, efficient approach to managing databases across multiple systems and is praised for its simplicity and effectiveness.

Key features

• Intuitive interface with multi-server support.
• Continuous, active development.
• Lightweight and fast.

Pros

• Easy to learn and use.
• Excellent multi-server management.
• Regular updates and improvements.

Cons

• No support for Linux-based OS.
• Lacks advanced features found in premium tools.

Pricing

• Free and premium versions available.

Available on

• Primarily Windows, discontinued Linux support

DBeaver

DBeaver appeals to a broad audience with support for popular databases, customizable features, and cross-platform availability.

Key features

• Extensible and customizable with plug-ins.
• Supports advanced data editing and wide database compatibility.
• Cross-platform (Windows, macOS, Linux).

Pros

• Versatile and highly adaptable for various database management tasks.
• Extensive support for different database types beyond MySQL.
• Open-source version available.

Cons

• Resource-intensive, can lag with large datasets.
• Not as beginner-friendly as some other tools.

Pricing

• Free and community editions, with paid enterprise editions offering more features.

Available on

• Windows, macOS, Linux

Navicat for MySQL

Navicat for MySQL is a premium tool known for its blend of intuitive design and powerful features, catering to professional database management.

Key features

• User-friendly interface with drag-and-drop functionality.
• Advanced modeling tools and data synchronization.
• Cloud database support for MySQL.

Pros

• Powerful and efficient for enterprise-level management.
• Great for collaboration on larger teams.
• Offers excellent customer support.

Cons

• Only available in paid versions.
• High cost compared to other MySQL frontends.

Pricing

• Paid software with different editions available.

Available on

• Windows, macOS, Linux

TablePlus

TablePlus is a modern, native, and user-friendly GUI tool for relational databases, including MySQL.

Key features

• Intuitive interface with visual query building.
• Supports multiple databases including MySQL, PostgreSQL, and others.
• Offers collaboration features for team-based work.

Pros

• Clean, modern UI.
• Supports multiple databases in one application.
• Fast performance and regular updates.

Cons

• Limited features in the free version.
• Some advanced functions require a paid version.

Pricing

• Free and paid versions available.

Available on

• macOS, Windows, Linux

Valentina Studio

Valentina Studio provides a comprehensive development environment for MySQL, PostgreSQL, and SQLite databases.

Key features

• Visual query builder and data import/export capabilities.
• Supports multiple databases.
• Powerful SQL editor for complex queries.

Pros

• Great for developers needing an all-in-one database tool.
• Multi-database support in a single interface.
• Free version includes many core features.

Cons

• User interface can be complex for new users.
• Performance issues with large datasets.

Pricing

• Free and paid versions available.

Available on

• macOS, Windows, Linux

Ditch the Downloads, Go Visual: UI Bakery for MySQL

UI Bakery offers a web-based, low-code solution for managing MySQL databases by simplifying the creation of internal tools and admin panels.

To start with, you may try MySQL template, to effortlessly view MySQL table rows in a comprehensive table, delve deep with search functionalities, and gain insights into individual record details – all at your fingertips. Additionally, the provision to modify row data ensures you have complete control over your database.

Key features

• Drag and drop pre-built components to create custom dashboards.
• Connect to MySQL and other databases like PostgreSQL and MongoDB.
• Web-based, no need for downloads or installations.

Pros

• Saves time with an intuitive low-code platform.
• Boosts team collaboration with easy sharing and management.
• Supports multiple databases beyond MySQL.

Cons

• Limited to web-based use; requires an internet connection.
• More focused on front-end and internal tool building than direct database administration.

Pricing

• Free trial available, with paid plans from $5 offering advanced features.

Available on

• Web-based, accessible on any OS with a browser

Each of these MySQL frontend tools has its strengths and weaknesses, and the right choice will depend on your specific needs and environment. Whether you're looking for a powerful all-in-one tool like MySQL Workbench or a low-code, visual solution like UI Bakery, there's a MySQL frontend for everyone.