SQLPro for MySQL vs TablePlus
A MySQL-focused native client vs a polished multi-database tool.
TablePlus is a well-made, native database client that supports many engines and runs on macOS, iOS, Windows, and Linux. It is a strong product with a loyal following. This page is an honest comparison of where it and SQLPro for MySQL differ.
Feature Comparison
| Feature | SQLPro for MySQL | TablePlus |
|---|---|---|
| Focus | MySQL & MariaDB | Many databases |
| Free tier | Free trial | Free, limited to 2 open tabs |
| Lifetime license | $129.99 (macOS) | One-time per major version |
| Native macOS app | ✓ | ✓ |
| iOS / iPadOS app | ✓ | ✓ |
| MySQL and MariaDB | ✓ | ✓ |
| PostgreSQL / SQL Server / SQLite | ✗ | ✓ |
| SSH tunneling | ✓ | ✓ |
| Autocomplete | ✓ | ✓ |
| Inline data editing | ✓ | ✓ |
| Dark mode | ✓ | ✓ |
MySQL focus vs multi-database breadth
TablePlus is a multi-database client. It connects to MySQL, PostgreSQL, SQL Server, SQLite, Redis, and more from one app. If you regularly switch between different database engines, that breadth is a real advantage.
SQLPro for MySQL is focused on MySQL and MariaDB. If MySQL is the database you work in, a focused tool keeps the interface and defaults tuned to that one job. And if you later need multiple engines, SQLPro Studio is the multi-database app in the same family.
Free tier and pricing
TablePlus has a capable free tier, but it limits you to two open tabs and two advanced filters at a time, which nudges regular users toward a paid license. Its license is a one-time purchase tied to a major version, with paid upgrades for future major versions.
SQLPro for MySQL offers a free trial, then monthly ($5.99), yearly ($69.99), or a one-time lifetime macOS license ($129.99) that includes all future updates. Monthly and yearly plans also include the iOS app, and students can request a free one-year license.
The verdict
Both are polished, native apps with iOS versions. Choose TablePlus if you want one tool for many databases and are comfortable within its free-tier limits or paying for a license. Choose SQLPro for MySQL if MySQL is your focus and you want a lifetime option and a tool tuned specifically for MySQL and MariaDB. Try SQLPro's free trial to compare them directly.