Overview
Azure Data Studio is Microsoft free, cross platform tool for working with SQL Server, Azure SQL Database and related engines. Built on the same foundation as Visual Studio Code, it runs natively on Windows, macOS and Linux and focuses on writing and running queries rather than full instance administration.
It offers a modern query editor with IntelliSense, customizable dashboards, an extension model, integrated source control and SQL notebooks that mix code with Markdown. A PostgreSQL extension adds support beyond the SQL Server family. It is lighter than SSMS and deliberately leaves out much of the deep management GUI.
Key features
- Cross platform support for Windows, macOS and Linux
- Modern query editor with IntelliSense, snippets and multiple result views
- SQL notebooks that combine T-SQL, Markdown and saved results
- Customizable server and database dashboards with insight widgets
- Integrated Git source control and an extension marketplace
- Optional PostgreSQL support through an extension
Pros and cons
Pros
- Completely free and runs on Windows, macOS and Linux
- Fast and lightweight compared with heavier admin tools
- Notebooks and source control fit modern, script-first workflows
- Familiar to anyone who already uses VS Code
Cons
- Lighter on admin features than SSMS, with no full management GUI
- Weaker for backups, security and instance level tasks
- Primarily aimed at the SQL Server and Azure SQL family
- Some extensions are less mature than the core editor
Pricing
Free to download and use on all platforms, with no license cost.
Who it is best for
Developers and analysts who want a fast, cross platform editor for SQL Server and Azure SQL and value notebooks and source control over deep administration.
Verdict
Azure Data Studio is a strong, free choice if you want a modern, cross platform editor for SQL Server or Azure SQL and care more about writing queries than managing instances. It is quick to start, notebook friendly and comfortable for VS Code users. Just know its limits: for backups, security and full instance administration on Windows, SSMS remains the more complete tool, and many teams run both side by side.
Frequently asked questions
Is Azure Data Studio free?
Yes. Azure Data Studio is a free download from Microsoft with no license cost, on Windows, macOS and Linux.
Does Azure Data Studio run on macOS and Linux?
Yes. Unlike SSMS, Azure Data Studio is cross platform and runs natively on Windows, macOS and Linux.
What is the difference between Azure Data Studio and SSMS?
Azure Data Studio is a lighter, cross platform editor built for writing queries and notebooks, while SSMS is a heavier, Windows only tool with the deepest administration features. Many people use both. See the SSMS vs Azure Data Studio comparison.