SQLCheck

SQLCheck is a free command-line tool for developers reviewing SQL files across database systems. Its risk filters and coverage beyond queries make it useful for focused checks; the file-based workflow is less suited to people who want an integrated editing experience.

Overview

SQLCheck scans for common SQL anti-patterns that can slow queries, organizing findings across logical and physical database design, queries, and application development. That breadth makes it relevant to code reviews that need to look beyond query syntax, while its terminal-first approach keeps the task centered on scanning files.

The project targets major SQL dialects, including Microsoft SQL Server, MySQL, Oracle, PostgreSQL, and SQLite3. It is licensed under Apache-2.0, and its maintainer welcomes contributions through issues, pull requests, and documentation improvements.

Key features

• Risk-level selection: Run checks for all anti-patterns, medium- and high-risk patterns, or high-risk patterns only. This helps reviewers narrow attention to more serious findings when a broad scan would be less useful.
• File-based analysis: Pass a SQL file name on the command line. Version 1.3 adds line numbers and returns status code 1 when it finds anti-patterns, which helps locate findings and lets scripts react to them.
• Color and verbose modes: These output options give users a choice in how much detail and visual distinction they want in terminal results, without changing the file-based workflow.
• Multiple distribution formats: Debian, RPM, macOS DMG, Windows EXE, and ZIP downloads offer several ways to get the tool. Building from source requires g++ 4.9+ and CMake.

Pricing

SQLCheck is free: the open-source command-line tool costs nothing, with no paid tiers or usage limits stated. That makes it suitable for individual developers and teams that want a no-cost scanner; there is no higher tier described for expanded services or features.

Platforms

SQLCheck supports Linux, macOS, and Windows. The project provides Debian and RPM packages, a macOS DMG, a Windows executable, and ZIP downloads. Windows users run the executable from a terminal such as cmd.exe; source builds are also possible with g++ 4.9+ and CMake.

Who it's for

SQLCheck fits developers and database teams who want to inspect SQL files for anti-patterns across several dialects and prioritize findings by risk. It is less appropriate for users who need a hosted service, graphical interface, mobile app, API, or integrations with other products; the described workflow is a standalone command-line utility.

Pros and cons

• Pro: Findings span design, query, and application-development categories, giving reviewers more than a query-only check.
• Pro: Risk filters, line numbers, and a nonzero status when findings appear help focus review and support scripted use.
• Pro: Free, open-source distribution across Linux, macOS, and Windows keeps it accessible across common development environments.
• Con: Analysis is based on SQL files and terminal use, which may be inconvenient for people expecting an editor or graphical workflow.
• Con: The tool does not provide automatic fixes, so users must address findings themselves.

Alternatives

For other options, see SQL Linters and Formatters.

• SQL Formatter is a better fit when the goal is SQL formatting rather than anti-pattern detection; it offers a free formatting library and browser demo.
• Sqruff is another free option for readers looking for a tool with extension, self-hosted, and web platforms.
• JSQLFormatter is a free alternative for readers who prefer a tool available on Linux, macOS, self-hosted, and Windows platforms.
• Poor SQL is worth considering when formatting is the priority, with online and offline formatting and an SSMS/Visual Studio plugin in its free plan.
• Sleek is a free alternative with extension support for users who want a formatter available as an extension as well as on desktop platforms.
• SQLFluff is a free, MIT-licensed open-source SQL linter for users seeking a linter rather than SQLCheck's anti-pattern-focused scanner.
• sqlfmt suits readers who want a browser-based formatter that runs through WebAssembly without installation.
• TSQLLint is a free alternative for users who want an MIT-licensed tool installable with dotnet-tool, Homebrew, or NPM.

Verdict

Choose SQLCheck if you want a free terminal scanner that checks SQL files across several dialects and lets you focus on findings by risk. Look elsewhere if you need automatic repairs or a more integrated workflow than a standalone command-line tool provides.