Choosing the right database admin tool? Here's an honest comparison of three popular options — and when each one makes sense.
You want instant web access with zero setup. Best for teams and quick data lookups.
You need a power tool with SQL editing, ER diagrams, and multi-database support.
You want a beautiful native app with a modern UI and don't mind local installs.
Side-by-side breakdown of what each tool offers
| Feature | PeekDB | DBeaver | TablePlus |
|---|---|---|---|
| Platform | Web (any browser) | Desktop (Win/Mac/Linux) | Desktop (Win/Mac/Linux) |
| Setup Time | 60 seconds | 5-15 minutes | 5-10 minutes |
| Installation | None required | Download + install | Download + install |
| Team Access | Built-in | Manual config sharing | Manual config sharing |
| Credentials Security | Stay on your infra | Stored locally | Stored locally |
| SQL Editor | Basic | Advanced | Good |
| ER Diagrams | — | Yes | — |
| Database Support | Postgres (MySQL soon) | 80+ databases | 20+ databases |
| Learning Curve | None | Steep | Low |
| Free Tier | Yes | Yes (Community) | Limited |
| Paid Pricing | From $9/mo | $25/mo (Pro) | $89 one-time |
PeekDB takes a different approach: it's a web-based admin panel that works without any local installation. You run a lightweight agent on your server (or use Docker), and access your database from any browser.
Best for: Teams who need quick database access, support staff answering tickets, developers debugging production data, anyone who wants to share access without sharing credentials.
DBeaver is the Swiss Army knife of database tools. It supports 80+ databases, has a powerful SQL editor with autocomplete, generates ER diagrams, and offers data visualization. It's built on Eclipse and has a learning curve.
Best for: Database administrators, developers who work with multiple database types, anyone who needs ER diagrams or advanced SQL editing, power users who want maximum control.
TablePlus is the "beautiful" option. It's a native macOS/Windows/Linux app with a clean, modern interface. It supports 20+ databases and has a good SQL editor. The free tier is limited (2 tabs, 2 connections).
Best for: Individual developers who value aesthetics, macOS users who want a native experience, anyone willing to pay for a premium desktop experience.
Based on your primary use case
→ PeekDB
Built-in team access, no credential sharing, web-based.
→ DBeaver
Best multi-database support with 80+ options.
→ DBeaver
Only option with built-in ER diagram support.
→ PeekDB
Fastest setup, no installation, instant access.
→ TablePlus
Best-looking UI, native performance.
→ PeekDB
Web-based, works on any device with a browser.
No download required. Connect your Postgres database and start browsing in 60 seconds.