How do SQL notebooks (e.g. in Hex or Databricks) differ from traditional SQL editors, and when should I use each?

SQL notebooks excel at exploratory, narrative-driven analysis, while traditional SQL editors like galaxy.io" target="_blank" id="">Galaxy focus on fast, precise query development for day-to-day engineering work.

What is a SQL notebook?

A SQL notebook (think Hex, Databricks, Mode) is a web-based document that mixes executable SQL cells with Markdown, charts, and sometimes Python or R. Results are cached, cells share state, and teammates can comment directly in the narrative.

What is a traditional SQL editor?

A traditional SQL editor is an IDE-style environment (Galaxy, DataGrip, DBeaver) designed for writing and running standalone queries fast. It emphasizes autocomplete, keyboard shortcuts, and direct database connections without the overhead of notebook state.

How do they differ?

Workflow style

- Notebook: step-by-step storytelling and exploration.
- Editor: rapid, one-off or scripted queries.

Collaboration model

- Notebook: share a single document with inline notes and visuals.
- Editor: share saved queries or version-controlled files.

Performance and resources

- Notebook: keeps session state in memory, which can slow down with large data.
- Editor: stateless execution, generally faster and lighter.

Language flexibility

- Notebook: often supports SQL plus Python, R, or Scala.
- Editor: SQL-only, optimized for that purpose.

When should I use a SQL notebook?

Choose a notebook when you need to explore data, create a reproducible analysis with commentary, blend SQL with Python, or present findings to non-technical stakeholders. Notebooks shine for ad-hoc analytics, experimentation, and executive readouts.

When should I use a traditional SQL editor?

Use an editor for daily development, debugging, schema introspection, or production SQL that must run quickly and predictably. Editors are ideal for long scripts, query optimization, and tasks that require tight version control through Git.

Can I combine both approaches?

Many teams prototype in a notebook, then harden the final query in an editor before pushing to production. This workflow pairs the best of narrative exploration with disciplined engineering practices.

Where does Galaxy fit in?

Galaxy is a next-generation SQL editor built for developers who need speed, AI-powered autocomplete, and multiplayer collaboration without the overhead of a notebook UI. Save endorsed queries, sync to GitHub, and share links instead of screenshots. For notebook-style storytelling, Galaxy plans lightweight visualizations and notebook export in its 2025 roadmap, giving you the option to stay in one tool throughout the lifecycle.