DB Designer is a web tool for visually modeling database schemas without writing SQL. It can generate scripts for MySQL, MS SQL, PostgreSQL, Oracle, and SQLite, and import existing MySQL, PostgreSQL, and Oracle scripts to reverse-engineer a model. Teams can edit models together, discuss them through live comments or chat, and assign Owner, Editor, or Viewer access. Diagram tools include a minimap, automatic layout, table cloning, notes, undo and redo, and saved history. Users can export diagrams as PNG or PDF and create a public view link. The free Starter plan allows two database models with ten tables per model; separate free plans with unlimited models and tables are restricted to eligible non-profit, academic, and open-source users. Basic costs 9.00 USD per month, and Unlimited costs 17.00 USD per month. The maker says the tool grew from a database consulting shop founded in 2006. DB Designer says communications use SSL encryption and data is stored securely and backed up regularly. Email support is available seven days a week, with live chat and phone support for premium users.
Who it is for
DB Designer suits individuals and teams building or documenting database schemas in a browser. Its free options may suit small projects or qualifying non-profit, academic, and open-source users; paid plans offer broader model capacity.
What is good
- Generates scripts for five database systems.
- Imports MySQL, PostgreSQL, and Oracle scripts.
- Supports collaborative editing with role-based access.
- Exports diagrams as PNG or PDF.
- Free Starter plan is available.
What to know first
- Starter is limited to two models and ten tables per model.
- Unlimited free plans are restricted to specific user groups.
- Live chat and phone support are for premium users.
Verdict
DB Designer combines visual modeling, SQL generation, reverse engineering, and team collaboration in a web-based tool. Compare the Starter limits and eligibility for other free plans with the model capacity your work requires.
DB Designer plans and pricing
All plansCompared on database design tools
- Free plan
- Yes
- Reverse engineering
- Yes
- Forward engineering
- Yes
- SQL export
- Yes
- Supported databases
- MySQL, MS SQL, PostgreSQL, Oracle, SQLite
- Team collaboration
- Yes
- Version history
- Yes
- Deployment
- web
