rdSQL vs HeidiSQL
A cross-platform HeidiSQL alternative for PostgreSQL, MySQL, and more.
HeidiSQL is a free, open-source client that's excellent for MySQL/MariaDB on Windows. If you work across platforms or need engines beyond MySQL/MariaDB, here's how rdSQL Desktop compares.
| Comparison | rdSQL Desktop | HeidiSQL |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Free (Community), Pro plan optional | Free, open source |
| Platforms | macOS, Windows, Linux (native) | Windows native; macOS/Linux via Wine only |
| License | Open source (MIT) | Open source |
| Engines | PostgreSQL, MySQL, MariaDB, SQLite, DuckDB, Cloudflare D1, CockroachDB, YugabyteDB, TiDB, PlanetScale | MySQL, MariaDB, MS SQL, PostgreSQL (partial), SQLite |
| AI assistant | Built in, bring-your-own-key | None |
| Cloud sync | Optional, end-to-end encrypted | None |
| Object storage browser | Built-in S3/R2/MinIO browser | None |
How rdSQL fits in
HeidiSQL is genuinely great for a fast, no-frills MySQL/MariaDB workflow on Windows. rdSQL Desktop targets the same fast/lightweight goal but as a true native app on all three major desktop platforms, with a wider engine list, an AI assistant, and a built-in object storage browser alongside the SQL editor.