What is DBX?
DBX is an open-source database workspace for connections, SQL editing, data grids, schema tools, AI assistance, and self-hosted access.
DBX is an open-source database workspace. It brings the daily database workflow into one place: connecting to databases, writing SQL, browsing and editing data, exploring schemas, comparing structures, importing and exporting data, and using AI assistance when it helps.
DBX is available as both a desktop app and a Docker deployment. Use the desktop app for local daily work, or self-host the Docker version when you want browser-based access from a server.
Where DBX Fits
Daily Query Work
Write, format, and execute SQL, then use query history to return to previous investigation steps.
Browse and Edit Data
Filter, sort, edit, preview SQL, and decide when changes should be committed to the database.
Understand Schemas
Browse databases, schemas, tables, columns, indexes, foreign keys, and triggers from the sidebar.
Compare Environments
Compare dev, staging, and production schemas, then generate SQL you can review before syncing.
Core Capabilities
| Capability | Details |
|---|---|
| Database connections | MySQL, PostgreSQL, SQLite, Redis, MongoDB, DuckDB, ClickHouse, SQL Server, Oracle, and more |
| SQL editor | CodeMirror 6, syntax highlighting, metadata completion, formatting, selected execution, and query history |
| Data grid | Virtual scrolling, inline editing, WHERE/ORDER BY controls, SQL preview, and export tools |
| Schema tools | Schema browser, table structure editing, schema diff, ER diagrams, field lineage, database export, and SQL file execution |
| Data movement | Table import, data transfer, SQL file execution, and SQL export with progress and cancellation where supported |
| Specialized browsers | Redis key/value browsing and MongoDB document browsing |
| AI and automation | Generate SQL, explain queries, suggest optimizations, help fix errors, and expose DBX connections to coding agents through MCP |
| Self-hosted access | Run DBX with Docker and access it from a browser |
Product Principles
DBX focuses on the core work of a database client instead of turning every operation into a separate tool. A few details shape the product:
- Less context switching: schema browsing, SQL editing, data grids, and results stay close together.
- Reviewable operations: data and schema changes show the SQL before they are applied where possible.
- Clear environment separation: connection colors, pins, search, and context menus help separate dev, test, and production.
- Flexible deployment: the desktop app fits personal workflows; the Docker version fits shared or server-hosted access.
Data and Security
- Connection configuration is stored in a local SQLite database under the app data directory. Sensitive fields such as passwords, SSH passwords, SSH key passphrases, and connection strings are removed from the normal connection JSON and stored separately in the
connection_secretstable. - Config export can be encrypted with AES-GCM for migration between machines.
- SSH tunnels can connect to databases behind firewalls or private networks.
- AI Ask mode does not execute generated SQL. Agent and MCP flows use conservative execution policies and block dangerous SQL by default.