JSQLFormatter

Overview

JSQLFormatter is a platform-independent SQL formatter and pretty printer for developers working with database queries. It suits teams that need a Java library or command-line tool with broad dialect and statement coverage. Its strongest case is grammar-based parsing with configurable output; it is less suited to anyone seeking a mature set of IDE integrations.

Key features

JSQLFormatter parses SQL into an abstract syntax tree using a real grammar rather than regular-expression substitutions. That gives it a useful foundation for handling complex queries: it supports SELECT, INSERT, MERGE, UPDATE, DELETE, CREATE and ALTER statements, including WITH clauses and nested subqueries. Its dialect list spans Oracle, SQL Server, MySQL, MariaDB, PostgreSQL, H2, DuckDB, BigQuery, Redshift, Databricks and Snowflake.

Comment handling is a practical strength. The formatter preserves comments between keywords and within join conditions, while leaving strings that merely resemble comments untouched. Indent width, comma placement, and the casing of keywords, functions and objects can be set per invocation, file or statement, which helps teams apply different conventions without relying on one global style.

Output options include ANSI terminal highlighting and HTML or RTF for documents and wikis. A Java-source feature can import SQL strings while preserving variables, then export them as String, StringBuilder or MessageFormat. The Java library JAR is distributed through Maven Central; an executable JAR provides command-line use.

JSQLFormatter's IDE story is more limited than its format coverage. NetBeans is a platform target, while Eclipse, JEdit, Squirrel SQL and DBeaver are planned. Native dynamic libraries are also marked as coming soon, so the current appeal is strongest for Java and command-line workflows.

Pricing

JSQLFormatter is free and open source. Its JSQLFormatter plan costs nothing and includes the Java library and command-line executable. Apache 2.0 licensing applies from version 5.4 onward; releases through 5.3 used AGPL, a distinction worth checking when choosing a version for a project.

Platforms

JSQLFormatter supports Linux, macOS and Windows, as well as self-hosted use. Its Java and executable JAR distribution suits local development and command-line workflows. The product describes local use but makes no security certification or compliance claim.

Who it's for

Choose JSQLFormatter if you need to format varied SQL dialects, preserve intricate comments, or standardize query style through a Java dependency or command-line process. Its Java-source import and export options also make it relevant when SQL strings live inside Java code. Look elsewhere if your decision depends on a finished integration for a specific IDE beyond the NetBeans target.

Pros and cons

• Pro: Grammar-based parsing and support for complex statements, nested queries and many dialects make it a stronger fit for varied SQL than a formatter limited to simple query shapes.
• Pro: Comment preservation and configurable casing, indentation and comma placement give teams control over readable, consistent output.
• Pro: Free distribution as both a Java library and command-line executable supports more than one development workflow.
• Con: Several named IDE integrations remain planned, so teams using those editors should not assume a ready-made plugin.
• Con: License terms changed at version 5.4; projects using earlier releases need to account for the AGPL license.

Alternatives

Browse SQL Linters and Formatters for more options. SQL Formatter is another free choice, with a formatting library and browser demo under the MIT license; its web and extension platforms may suit users who do not need JSQLFormatter's Java distribution. SQLCheck is a free command-line option for Linux, macOS and Windows. Sqruff is a free alternative with extension, web and self-hosted platforms. Poor SQL offers online and offline formatting and an SSMS/Visual Studio plugin; its library is AGPL-licensed. Sleek is a free option for users seeking an extension alongside desktop platforms. SQLFluff is a free, MIT-licensed SQL linter, making it the alternative to consider when linting is the priority. sqlfmt offers a free browser formatter that runs through WebAssembly without installation. TSQLLint is another free option, installable with dotnet-tool, Homebrew or NPM.

Verdict

JSQLFormatter is a strong choice for developers who want a free Java or command-line formatter with broad dialect coverage, serious statement support and careful comment preservation. Its central trade-off is that its core tooling is more established than its IDE integration story; choose another product if a ready-made plugin for your editor is essential.