Questions

Should I use a dedicated SQL client or just VS Code plugins for running database queries?

SQL Editors
Software Engineer, Data Engineer, Analyst

Choose a dedicated SQL client like Galaxy when you need performance, rich SQL features, and team galaxy.io/features/collaboration" target="_blank" id="">collaboration; use VS Code plugins only for light, occasional queries.

Get on the waitlist for our alpha today :)
Welcome to the Galaxy, Guardian!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.

What is the difference between a VS Code SQL plugin and a dedicated SQL client?

A VS Code plugin layers SQL capabilities on top of your code editor. A dedicated SQL client is purpose-built for database work, offering native performance, deeper integrations, and a UI optimized for querying.

How does a dedicated SQL client outperform a VS Code extension?

1. Speed and stability

Standalone clients allocate memory and threads specifically for database operations, so large result sets and long-running queries do not freeze your coding workspace.

2. Database-aware features

Expect advanced autocomplete, visual explain plans, schema diffing, and result-set visualization that most extensions cannot match.

3. Multi-connection management

Switching between dev, staging, and prod databases is safer with built-in connection profiles, role-based permissions, and history.

4. Collaboration and governance

Modern clients such as Galaxy let teams version, endorse, and share queries in one place, eliminating galaxy.io/features/integrations" target="_blank" id="">Slack pastes and stale snippets.

When is a VS Code plugin good enough?

If you run quick, ad-hoc selects against a single database and prefer not to leave your code editor, an extension like SQLTools or Prisma can be sufficient.

However, be mindful of limited result-set handling, weaker autocomplete, and the risk of crashing VS Code when queries grow.

When should I adopt a dedicated SQL client?

  • You work with large datasets or complex joins that strain VS Code.
  • You need query history, parameterization, or saved connections.
  • Your team must review, reuse, and govern SQL centrally.
  • You want AI assistance that understands schema context.

How does Galaxy bridge the gap?

Galaxy is a next-generation SQL client that feels as snappy as an IDE but is purpose-built for SQL. It offers lightning-fast execution, context-aware AI copilot, and multiplayer collaboration so engineers and analysts stay aligned on data. Unlike generic VS Code extensions, Galaxy stores and versions every query, supports endorsements, and keeps credentials local for security.

For 2025 and beyond, Galaxy’s roadmap adds lightweight visualizations, API endpoints, and dbt sync, making it a future-proof choice for teams who outgrow editor plugins.

Bottom line

Use a VS Code plugin for simple, infrequent querying. Switch to a dedicated SQL client like Galaxy when performance, advanced SQL tooling, or team workflows matter.

Related Questions

Best SQL client for developers; VS Code SQL vs DataGrip; Is DataGrip better than VS Code SQL plugin?; SQL editor vs IDE plugin

Start querying in Galaxy today!
Welcome to the Galaxy, Guardian!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
Trusted by top engineers on high-velocity teams
Aryeo Logo
Assort Health
Curri
Rubie Logo
Bauhealth Logo
Truvideo Logo

Check out some of Galaxy's other resources

Top Data Jobs

Job Board

Check out the hottest SQL, data engineer, and data roles at the fastest growing startups.

Check out
Galaxy's Job Board
SQL Interview Questions and Practice

Beginner Resources

Check out our resources for beginners with practice exercises and more

Check out
Galaxy's Beginner Resources
Common Errors Icon

Common Errors

Check out a curated list of the most common errors we see teams make!

Check out
Common SQL Errors

Check out other questions!