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ApexSQL Source Control vs DB Designer

Professional comparison and analysis to help you choose the right software solution for your needs.

ApexSQL Source Control icon
ApexSQL Source Control
DB Designer icon
DB Designer

ApexSQL Source Control vs DB Designer: The Verdict

⚡ Summary:

ApexSQL Source Control: ApexSQL Source Control is a version control system designed specifically for database developers. It allows tracking changes, comparing versions, and rolling back unwanted modifications to SQL Server, Oracle, MySQL, PostgreSQL, and MariaDB databases.

DB Designer: DB Designer is an open source database modeling and design tool. It allows users to visually model databases including entities, relationships, and more to auto-generate SQL scripts for various databases.

Both tools serve their respective audiences. Compare the features, pricing, and user ratings above to determine which best fits your needs.

Last updated: May 2026 · Comparison by Sugggest Editorial Team

Feature ApexSQL Source Control DB Designer
Sugggest Score — —
Category Development Development
Pricing — Open Source

Product Overview

ApexSQL Source Control
ApexSQL Source Control

Description: ApexSQL Source Control is a version control system designed specifically for database developers. It allows tracking changes, comparing versions, and rolling back unwanted modifications to SQL Server, Oracle, MySQL, PostgreSQL, and MariaDB databases.

Type: software

DB Designer
DB Designer

Description: DB Designer is an open source database modeling and design tool. It allows users to visually model databases including entities, relationships, and more to auto-generate SQL scripts for various databases.

Type: software

Pricing: Open Source

Key Features Comparison

ApexSQL Source Control
ApexSQL Source Control Features
  • Integrates with SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS) and Visual Studio
  • Supports version control for SQL Server, Oracle, MySQL, PostgreSQL, and MariaDB databases
  • Provides a visual diff tool to compare database objects and scripts
  • Allows rollback of unwanted changes to the database
  • Supports branching, merging, and conflict resolution
  • Provides a web-based interface for remote team collaboration
  • Includes a built-in backup and restore functionality
  • Supports automated database deployment and continuous integration
DB Designer
DB Designer Features
  • Visual database modeling
  • Support for multiple database types like MySQL, PostgreSQL, Oracle, SQL Server
  • Reverse engineering to import existing database structures
  • Forward engineering to generate SQL scripts from models
  • Customizable templates for diagrams
  • Collaboration features like embedding diagrams into documents

Pros & Cons Analysis

ApexSQL Source Control
ApexSQL Source Control

Pros

  • Tight integration with SSMS and Visual Studio
  • Supports a wide range of database platforms
  • Robust version control and collaboration features
  • Backup and restore functionality built-in
  • Automated deployment and CI capabilities

Cons

  • Can be more expensive than some other version control solutions
  • Learning curve for users not familiar with version control
  • Limited free or trial options available
DB Designer
DB Designer

Pros

  • Free and open source
  • Intuitive visual interface
  • Cross-platform availability
  • Active community support
  • Regular updates

Cons

  • Limited customization compared to paid tools
  • Steep learning curve for advanced features
  • No native cloud integration
  • Lacks some enterprise-level capabilities

Pricing Comparison

ApexSQL Source Control
ApexSQL Source Control
  • Not listed
DB Designer
DB Designer
  • Open Source

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Learn More About Each Product

ApexSQL Source Control
ApexSQL Source Control
Reviews, pricing & alternatives →
DB Designer
DB Designer
Reviews, pricing & alternatives →

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