JustDB vs DBeaver
A lightweight alternative to DBeaver.
DBeaver is a powerful, do-everything database tool built on Java and Eclipse. That power comes with a JVM, a large install and a lot of UI. If you mostly browse tables, run SQL and edit a few rows in PostgreSQL or SQLite, JustDB gets you there with far less between you and your data.
Side by side
JustDB vs DBeaver
| JustDB | DBeaver | |
|---|---|---|
| Architecture | Native desktop app (Rust + Tauri) | Java / Eclipse RCP, runs on a JVM |
| Startup & footprint | Small binary, quick cold start, low idle memory | Heavier install and memory use — a full JVM app |
| Databases | PostgreSQL, SQLite, Turso/libSQL (MySQL planned) | 80+ databases over JDBC |
| Price | Free — no paid tier | Community Edition free; DBeaver PRO is a paid subscription |
| Account / signup | None | None for Community Edition |
| Platforms | macOS, Windows | macOS, Windows, Linux |
| Best for | Browsing, querying and editing, fast | Broad database coverage and advanced tooling |
JustDB
Comparison reflects publicly documented behaviour and pricing models; product details can change.
Why developers switch
Less tool, more database.
-
It opens fast
A native binary instead of a JVM means the app is ready about as quickly as you can click it — no splash screen, no plugin load.
-
Less UI to learn
No perspectives, no dozen panels you never open. Tables, a SQL editor and inline editing — the three things you actually came for.
-
Nothing to license
Every feature is free. There is no PRO tier dangling the capability you happen to need behind a subscription.
Being fair
When DBeaver is the better pick.
JustDB is deliberately small. If any of these describe you, DBeaver is the right tool — and we would rather say so.
- You connect to databases JustDB does not support yet — MySQL, Oracle, SQL Server, MongoDB and friends.
- You rely on advanced tooling like ER diagrams, a visual query builder or bulk data transfer between servers.
- You are on Linux, where JustDB does not yet publish a packaged build.
FAQ
Common questions.
Is JustDB a drop-in replacement for DBeaver?
For the common loop — browse tables, run SQL, edit rows — in PostgreSQL, SQLite or Turso, yes. If you depend on DBeaver’s broad database support or its advanced modelling and data-transfer tools, keep DBeaver for those.
Is JustDB free like DBeaver Community Edition?
Yes, and there is no paid tier at all. DBeaver splits features across a free Community Edition and a paid PRO subscription; JustDB ships one free app.
Does JustDB use less memory than DBeaver?
JustDB is a native Rust/Tauri app rather than a JVM application, so it starts quickly and keeps a small footprint. DBeaver’s Java runtime is heavier by design.