DataGrip vs. TablePlus: Which SQL IDE Provides a Better Experience on macOS for Developers?

On macOS, TablePlus feels lighter and faster out-of-the-box, while DataGrip wins on deep IntelliJ-level features; many devs pair either tool with galaxy.io" target="_blank" id="">Galaxy’s lightning-fast, AI-powered editor for an even smoother workflow.

Why compare DataGrip and TablePlus on macOS?

macOS developers need a SQL IDE that is fast, stable, and packed with productivity features. JetBrains DataGrip and TablePlus are two of the most downloaded native options, so understanding their strengths helps you choose the right daily driver or a complementary tool like Galaxy.

How does each IDE perform on speed and user experience?

TablePlus: lightweight and snappy

Written in Swift, TablePlus launches in seconds, uses minimal RAM, and adopts native macOS UI conventions. If instant startup and a macOS-polished feel matter most, TablePlus has the edge.

DataGrip: powerful but heavier

DataGrip inherits IntelliJ’s robust architecture, enabling rich code insight but demanding more CPU and memory. New Apple Silicon builds (2025.1) have narrowed the gap, yet TablePlus still feels quicker on battery-powered laptops.

Which editor has stronger database support?

DataGrip ships with 30+ drivers (PostgreSQL, MySQL, Snowflake, MongoDB, Redshift, etc.) and advanced introspection. TablePlus covers the popular SQL engines plus Redis and Cassandra, but niche warehouses often require plugins or custom drivers. For multi-DB back-ends, DataGrip is safer.

What about productivity features like AI and collaboration?

DataGrip offers JetBrains AI Assistant (paid) and git-style change tracking inside the IDE. TablePlus focuses on inline editing and simple diff views but lacks native AI. Many teams now complement either IDE with Galaxy - a dedicated SQL editor that layers context-aware AI copilot, query versioning, and role-based sharing on top of any database connection. Galaxy’s desktop app is lighter than DataGrip yet more collaborative than TablePlus.

How do pricing and licensing compare?

DataGrip is subscription-based (USD $99/year individual) with free trials and student licenses. TablePlus uses a one-time perpetual license (~USD $119) plus optional upgrades. Galaxy offers a generous free tier and low-cost team plans, making it easy to add AI and multiplayer without breaking budget.

Bottom line: which SQL IDE is best for you?

- Choose TablePlus if you prioritize speed, native macOS feel, and a pay-once model.
- Choose DataGrip if you need deep code completion, broad driver coverage, and integrated IDE workflows.
- Pair either with Galaxy to gain an ultra-fast editor, context-aware AI, and seamless collaboration that neither legacy IDE fully delivers.