Overview
MySQL Workbench is the official visual tool for MySQL, developed and maintained by Oracle. It bundles four main roles into one application: a SQL editor for running queries, a data modeling canvas for designing schemas, an administration console for managing running servers, and a migration wizard for moving other databases to MySQL.
Because it comes straight from the MySQL vendor, Workbench tracks new server features closely and is a common default for MySQL developers and DBAs. It runs on Windows, macOS and Linux, and also connects to MariaDB, though its feature set is built and tuned first and foremost for MySQL.
Key features
- SQL editor with syntax highlighting, autocomplete and result grids
- Visual data modeling with ER diagrams and forward and reverse engineering
- Server administration for users, connections, variables and status
- Backup and restore management through mysqldump and enterprise backup
- Migration wizard for moving from other databases to MySQL
- Performance dashboard and query statistics for tuning
Pros and cons
Pros
- Free and comes directly from the MySQL vendor
- Strong visual data modeling and ER diagram tools
- One tool for queries, modeling, administration and migration
- Cross platform on Windows, macOS and Linux
Cons
- Focused on MySQL, so it is not a general multi database client
- A reputation for occasional instability and crashes
- Interface can feel dated compared with newer editors
- Heavier than lightweight query only clients
Pricing
Free to download and use. The Community edition is open source under the GPL.
Who it is best for
MySQL developers and DBAs who want a free official tool that covers SQL editing, schema design and server administration in one place.
Verdict
MySQL Workbench is a solid default if MySQL or MariaDB is your main engine. It is free, official and unusually strong at visual data modeling, which sets it apart from most query focused clients. The trade offs are a MySQL centric feature set and a long standing reputation for the odd crash or slowdown. If you work across several database engines, a client like DBeaver may serve you better, and if you mostly want a fast lightweight editor for MySQL, HeidiSQL or phpMyAdmin are worth a look.
Frequently asked questions
Is MySQL Workbench free?
Yes. The MySQL Workbench Community edition is a free, open source download from Oracle under the GPL, with no license cost.
Does MySQL Workbench work with MariaDB?
It can connect to MariaDB and handle common tasks, but it is built and tested first for MySQL, so some MariaDB specific features may not be fully supported. For MariaDB heavy work, a client like DBeaver can be a better fit.
What is MySQL Workbench used for?
It is used for writing and running SQL, designing schemas with ER diagrams, administering running MySQL servers, and migrating other databases to MySQL, all from one application.