The 10 best user-friendly database software in 2025

[.blog-callout]

✨ TL;DR:

• Spreadsheets break down fast: As data grows, files get messy, version control fails, and accuracy suffers.
• Databases fix this: Relational fields, linked records, permissions, and real-time sync make collaboration cleaner and safer.
• Types to know: No-code for ease, low-code for flexibility, and dev-first for full control.
• Softr Databases stand out: Relational fields, rollups/lookups, custom views, real-time sync, and the option to turn the same data into a client portal, CRM, or internal app: no API limits or per-seat costs.
• Bottom line: Choose no-code if your team is non-technical, low-code if you have mixed skills, and dev-first if you need full customization and scale.

[.blog-callout]

If your team is still storing important data across .csv files and messy spreadsheets, you’re not alone.

As your data grows, so do the problems: files get out of sync, version control becomes a nightmare, and it’s hard to know what’s accurate or who last edited what.

It’s time to upgrade to a database. But if your team includes non-technical members, you probably want something that doesn’t require a full-time developer to set up and maintain. The best user-friendly database tool gives you a clean interface for managing relational data, allows your team to collaborate safely, and still connects to other tools through an API.

In this guide, we’ll break down the best user-friendly database tools in 2025—whether you’re looking for something no-code, free to start, or flexible enough to work with a front-end.

What is database software?

Database software helps you store, organize, and manage information in a structured way.

If you’ve used spreadsheets to track things like clients, inventory, projects, or tasks, you’ve already worked with data. But as that data grows, it becomes harder to manage in spreadsheets. That’s where a database helps.

Instead of rows and tabs, a database lets you:

• Create records (like one row per client or task)
• Link related data (like connecting a client to a project or an inventory item to a warehouse)
• Control who can view or edit what
• Search, filter, and update your data more easily

Modern databases come in many forms but whether a database is truly user-friendly depends on your team’s technical experience, the complexity of your data, and how you plan to use it.

For example, a developer might find tools like PostgreSQL or MySQL intuitive, while non-technical teams often prefer no-code relational databases like Airtable or Softr that offer a familiar spreadsheet-like experience.

Types of database software

Here are the main categories of user-friendly database software:

No-code relational databases

Best for: Ops teams, marketers, small businesses, anyone replacing spreadsheets

These tools prioritize ease of use with flexible field types (including linked records), filters, and familiar spreadsheet-like views.

Examples: Softr Databases, Airtable, Baserow, TeamDesk, Coda, Stackby

Low-code database (GUI over SQL)

Best for: Tech-savvy users or teams with some developer support

These tools require more setup or SQL knowledge, but still offer user-friendly layers for non-devs.

Examples: Xano, PostgreSQL/MySQL + GUI (e.g. pgAdmin, MySQL Workbench, phpMyAdmin).

Developer-focused database

These offer full control, performance, and customization, but require developer knowledge and support.

Examples: PostgreSQL / MySQL (no GUI), Supabase, MongoDB, Firebase / Firestor

What to look for in user-friendly database software

Not every team needs the same kind of database, but if ease of use is high on your list, here are a few factors worth keeping in mind while you explore your options.

1. Setup and usability

Some tools offer a smoother start than others. If you’re looking to get up and running quickly, check whether the platform requires coding knowledge and if it supports importing data from existing spreadsheets and tools (e.g., CSV import).

2. Interface and navigation

A clean, intuitive interface can make all the difference. Think about what field types you need, and how easy it is to add filters and custom views so you can visualize what matters.

3. Automation and AI capabilities

Some platforms offer built-in automation or AI to handle repetitive tasks, summarize data, or surface key insights. If your workflows involve a lot of manual upkeep, these features might come in handy.

4. Security and access control

If your database includes sensitive or private data, security matters. Look into how the tool handles user permissions, encryption, and data protection.

5. Flexibility and scale

You may only need a smaller database right now, but that might change. Consider whether the tool can grow with your team, whether that means more records, more users, or adding front-end apps on top of your data.

6. Support and community

Clear guides and helpful support are important, especially when you’re using a tool for the first time. A strong online community can also make it easier to find answers and solve problems quickly.

Best user-friendly database software at a glance

1. Softr Databases — best for building relational databases and full-stack business apps

Softr offers a user-friendly, no-code relational database designed for teams that need more structure than spreadsheets, without the complexity of traditional tools. It offers a clean, spreadsheet-style interface with the power of relational fields, filtered views, and formula controls built in.

You can use Softr Databases as a standalone data management tool, or as the backend for full-stack business apps like client portals, CRMs, internal tools, dashboards, and more.

Getting started is easy: Build from scratch, use a pre-built database template, or import your data from a CSV or existing Airtable base to get up and running fast.

Softr Databases pros and cons

Pros:

• Relational database with flexible field types built for business logic: formulas, lookups, rollups, attachments, and more
• Manage data and build apps in one place—no API limits, sync delays, or performance issues
• Fast, real-time performance even with large datasets (and no 3rd-party API limits)
• Enterprise-grade compliance with GDPR and SOC-2
• No per-seat pricing

Cons:

• Not designed for deep developer-level backend scripting or server-side logic
• Automation features are growing but still in early stages (native Workflows in development)

Softr Databases best features

• Powerful field types: From short text and currency to linked records, rollups, and lookups, this database tool is designed for managing structured data at scale.
• Custom views: Create custom views using built-in filters, sorting, and field visibility tailored to different teams and workflows.
• Ability to create full-stack business apps: Turn your data into secure client portals, project management systems, inventory trackers, and more—all in one place.
• Airtable import: Easily migrate data from Airtable into Softr Databases in a few clicks—relational fields included!
• Native Zapier and Make integrations: Set custom triggers and actions with Softr Databases + Zapier or Make, and keep all your tools in sync.
• Public API: Push data from any tool with a REST API into Softr Databases. Migrate from legacy systems, sync live CRM data, and centralize scattered information.
• Library of pre-built templates: Get started quickly with ready-made database templates for CRMs, inventory, client portals, etc.

Softr Databases pricing

Softr offers flexible pricing, including a generous free plan. Softr Databases are available on all Softr plans with some record limits.

• Free for up to 10 users per month and 1000 records per database (5000 records per workspace)
• Paid plans start at $49/month for 20 users and 50K records per workspace (when billed annually)
• Professional: Starts at $139/month for 100 users and 500K records per workspace (when billed annually)
• Business: Starting at $269/month for 500 users and 1M records per workspace (when billed annually)
• Custom plans for enterprise customers

[.blog-callout]

“Softr brings everything under one roof. You build your database, your logic, and your frontend app… all from a single platform.”

Diana Kirby, certified Softr expert

[.blog-callout]

Learn more about Softr Databases 👇

2. Airtable — best for spreadsheet-style collaboration with automations

Airtable is a flexible hybrid between a spreadsheet and a relational database. Easy filtering, grouping, and integrations make it popular for marketing, operations, and product teams.

Airtable helps you organize work like projects, content, or team tasks. It gives you enough structure to stay organized while still being easy to use and get started with. You get relational fields, custom views, and automations—all inside a familiar grid-style interface that feels approachable to non-technical users.

Airtable pros and cons

Pros:

• Familiar spreadsheet-style UI with filtering, grouping, and custom views
• Easy to get started with templates, drag-and-drop layouts, and built-in automation
• Linked records, relational fields, and an Interface Designer for turning data into lightweight internal apps and dashboards
• Built-in AI features for summarizing, tagging, and generating content from your data
• Native integrations with tools like Slack, Google Sheets, and Salesforce

Cons:

• Permissions, record caps, and automation limits can be confusing as teams expand—and per user pricing means costs can grow quickly
• Performance lags with larger datasets

[.blog-callout]

If you manage your data in Airtable, Softr lets you turn it into a custom app, like a client portal or internal tool with custom, role-based permissions.

[.blog-callout]

Airtable best features

• Linked records: Easily build relational logic across tables (e.g., clients → projects) and add custom views to your tables
• Automation & AI: Trigger actions, enrich data, or summarize content using built-in automation and AI features
• Integrations & extensions: Connect with Slack, Google Calendar, Salesforce, and more through native integrations and app extensions
• Interface Designer: Create lightweight dashboards or tools for other Airtable users on your team without code
• Easy data import: Import data from spreadsheets, task managers, and other tools

Airtable pricing

Airtable has adaptable pricing plans for every user's needs.

• Free: $0/user , Up to 5 editors, 1,000 records/base, 100 automations/month
• Team: $20/user/month, 50,000 records/base, 25,000 automations/month, advanced views and permissions
• Business: $45/user/month , 125,000 records/base, 100,000 automations/month, 2-year revision history
• Enterprise Scale: Custom pricing, Higher limits, admin tools, SSO, and advanced security features

👉 See Softr vs. Airtable for a more detailed comparison of these no-code relational database tools.

3. Baserow — best open-source alternative to Airtable

Baserow is a no-code database you can host yourself—great for GDPR-sensitive data or teams that want data control without vendor lock-in.

It has a simple, spreadsheet-style interface that makes it easy to use, even for people without technical skills. You can create tables, connect data between them, and build custom views without writing code. This helps teams organize and manage their information quickly.

You can run Baserow on your own server for full control, or use the Baserow Cloud version if you prefer a setup that’s already managed for you.

Baserow pros and cons

Pros:

• Open-source and self-hostable for full data control
• No user limits on the free plan
• Real-time collaboration with a relational database structure

Cons:

• Limited third-party integrations compared to other platforms
• The interface is functional but less polished than Airtable or Notion

Baserow best features

• Self-hosting option: Deploy on your own infrastructure (Docker, Helm, AWS, etc.) for full governance and data sovereignty
• API-first architecture: Every table exposes a REST API, making automation and integrations seamless
• Application builder & plugin support: Build simple apps, dashboards, or custom workflows with plugins or low-code customization
• Relational data and real-time editing: Connect records across tables and collaborate live
• Multiple views: Includes grid, form, gallery, Kanban, calendar, and timeline views—most available depending on plan
• Security and compliance-ready: Supports GDPR, audit logs, encryption; enterprise plan adds SSO and role-based permissions

Baserow pricing

Cloud-hosted (billed yearly):

• Free plan: Includes unlimited users, 3,000 rows, 2 GB storage, and basic views (grid, form, gallery)
• Premium plan: $10 per user/month — Up to 50,000 rows, 20 GB storage, and extra views like Kanban, calendar, and survey
• Advanced plan: $18 per user/month — Up to 250,000 rows, 100 GB storage, plus role-based permissions, audit logs, and read-only users

Self-hosted:

• Free version: Host it yourself with no limits on users, rows, or storage
• Paid self-hosted plans: Start at $10 per user/month to unlock advanced features
• Enterprise: Custom pricing for features like SSO, admin panel, audit logs, and priority support

4. Stackby — best for marketing teams and campaign tracking

Stackby is a spreadsheet-style database tool built for marketers, agencies, and operations teams that want structure without complexity. It feels like a spreadsheet but adds field types, column-level automations, and integrations with tools like YouTube, Google Analytics, and MailChimp.

You can create “stacks” (databases) for campaigns, clients, leads, or any structured data, then automate updates from connected APIs—ideal for tracking fast-moving marketing or reporting workflows.

Stackby pros and cons

Pros:

• Familiar spreadsheet UI with structured field types
• Column-level API connectors for live data updates
• Affordable pricing, especially for small teams

Cons:

• Limited permissions and roles compared to more advanced platforms
• UX feels a bit clunky on large datasets or complex stacks

Stackby best features

• Spreadsheet-style interface: Build relational databases in a grid format—no SQL or formulas required
• Column-level automations: Pull in data automatically from tools like YouTube, Google Analytics, and Clearbit
• Multiple views: Switch between grid, Kanban, calendar, and gallery views
• Pre-built templates: Launch faster with stacks for CRM, social media planning, project tracking, and more
• Slack & webhook integration: Push updates to Slack or connect with other tools via webhooks

Stackby pricing

• Free: $0/month, 1,500 rows/stack, 2 GB attachments, 5 editors
• Economy: $10/user/month, 7,000 rows/stack, 6 GB storage, 1,000 automations
• Business: $18/user/month, 50,000 rows/stack, 20 GB storage, 25,000 automations
• Pro: $30/user/month, 100,000 rows/stack, 50 GB storage, 100,000 automations
• Enterprise: Contact sales, 250,000 rows/stack, 1 TB storage, 250,000 automations

5. TeamDesk — best for structured SMB use cases (inventory, clients, invoices)

TeamDesk is a stable, low-code database platform built for business use cases. Fine-grained access controls and powerful configuration without requiring devs.

In TeamDesk, a 'database' is also your app—you create a fully customizable solution from scratch or use an industry-specific template, all in one place, with data structure, interface, and workflows built together. The interface is structured and a bit more old-school, but that’s part of its appeal for companies that want predictable, secure tools that do the job without unnecessary complexity.

TeamDesk pros and cons

Pros:

• Easy-to-use database templates
• Unlimited records, tables, storage, and customer support on all plans (though # of databases is limited per plan)
• Detailed access control with role-based permissions

Cons:

• The interface feels dated compared to modern no-code tools
• Limited real-time collaboration or visual dashboards

TeamDesk best features

• Linked records: The system supports one-to-many and many-to-many relationships between records.
• Granular access control: Set detailed rules for who can view, edit, or manage data
• Unlimited scale: No caps on users, records, or storage—even on the Starter plan
• Reliable uptime and support: Daily backups and unlimited customer support included
• API and integrations: Connect to tools like Zapier, Power BI, or custom systems via REST API and webhook

TeamDesk pricing

• Starter edition: $49/month for up to 5 users
• Team edition: $99/month for up to 10 users
• Enterprise edition: $249/month for up to 10 users, with advanced features like custom branding and enhanced security
• Additional user packs are available for all plans, and all plans include a 14-day free trial

6. Coda — best for doc-style databases and internal tracking

Coda is an all-in-one doc and database tool that blends the flexibility of documents with the structure of a relational database. It's ideal for small teams that want to turn everyday documents into powerful apps—with buttons, automations, and data connections—all in one interface.

Each “doc” in Coda acts as its own workspace, where you can add interactive tables, create filters, connect data across pages, and set up logic with formulas.

Coda pros and cons

Pros:

• Combines documents, tables, and logic in one interface
• Powerful formula language to build interactive workflows
• Packs structure into a familiar, doc-style format

[.blog-callout]

Connect your Coda tables to Softr for real-time, two-way sync—letting you build branded portals, dashboards, or internal tools with granular user permissions, no code required.

[.blog-callout]

Cons:

• Tables aren’t separate entities—data reuse across docs can get messy
• Learning curve for formulas and advanced automations

Coda best features

• Live, interactive tables: Turn any doc section into a filterable, sortable table—great for tracking content, projects, or clients
• Buttons & automations: Create buttons that trigger emails, Slack messages, or status updates
• Connected pages: Link data across sections of the same doc using relational formulas
• Template gallery: Use or customize pre-built templates for CRMs, task managers, meeting notes, and more
• Mobile-friendly docs: Docs work seamlessly on phones—good for teams on the go

Coda pricing

• Free: $0/month, up to 100 rows and 100 automations/month
• Pro: $10/user/month, 5,000 rows, unlimited docs, version history
• Team: $30/user/month, 10,000 rows/doc, 60-day version history, admin tools
• Enterprise: Custom pricing, advanced governance, SSO, and support

7. Supabase — best developer-friendly PostgreSQL with a GUI

Supabase is an open-source Firebase alternative with real-time Postgres, authentication, storage, and APIs. Great for technical teams who want a full backend with minimal setup.

Since Supabase is open-source, teams can choose to use its hosted version or install it on their own servers. This makes it a strong choice for teams that need flexibility, room to grow, or control over privacy and data rules.

Supabase pros and cons

Pros:

• Full PostgreSQL database per project, with SQL support and real-time updates
• Auto-generated REST and GraphQL APIs, serverless Edge Functions, auth, and storage all included
• Open-source with self-hosting option and a growing ecosystem

Cons:

• Requires developer or technical skills to fully leverage features
• Cost scales with usage—adding storage, bandwidth, or active users increases monthly fees

[.blog-callout]

With Supabase as your backend, Softr lets you create secure apps on top of your database—think dashboards, portals, or CRMs—using real-time data and role-based access, no coding needed.

[.blog-callout]

Supabase best features

• PostgreSQL out-of-the-box: A complete relational database with schema, joins, SQL queries, and extensions
• Real-time subscriptions: Listen to database changes instantly via WebSocket connections
• Built-in auth & storage: Secure user sign-up/sign-in workflows and file management with access rules
• Edge Functions: Write serverless backend logic using JavaScript or TypeScript, deployed near users
• Auto APIs: Every database table gets its own REST and GraphQL endpoint automatically
• Self-hosting support: Optional self-managed deployment for full data control and no vendor lock-in

Supabase pricing

• Free plan ($0/month): Includes 2 projects, 500 MB database, 1 GB storage, and up to 50,000 users. Best for testing or small prototypes.
• Pro plan ($25/month per project): 8 GB database, 100 GB storage, 250 GB bandwidth, up to 100,000 users, daily backups, and email support. Extra usage is billed as you go.
• Team plan ($599/month): Adds SSO, SOC 2 compliance, extended API/log retention, edge-function scaling, and priority support.
• Enterprise: Custom pricing with SLAs, VPC support, audit logs, and advanced infrastructure options.

8. Xano — best for no-code backends with API-first design

Xano is a powerful backend builder with a visual DB interface, built-in auth, and auto-generated APIs. Designed for app builders or teams needing a robust backend without writing SQL.

You do not need to write SQL or know how servers work. Xano creates REST and GraphQL APIs for you automatically. You can also add custom functions using simple tools or write logic using JavaScript if needed.

Xano is a good choice for teams building apps, internal tools, or client portals. It gives you control over how your data works while making the backend setup fast and simple.

Xano pros and cons

Pros:

• Visual database interface with unlimited Postgres records and no rate limits on paid plans
• Built-in API builder, Edge Functions, authentication, and file storage
• Strong support for logic workflows, branching, and team collaboration
• Auto-generated documentation and REST/GraphQL endpoints out of every data model
• Open to API integrations like Business Intelligence tools and third-party services

Cons:

• Requires some technical understanding—less friendly for non-technical users
• Costs can grow quickly as storage, team seats, and usage increase
• No native frontend UI—must pair with a separate frontend builder

[.blog-callout]

If you're using Xano to manage your backend and APIs, you can connect it to Softr to build secure client portals, internal tools, or custom frontends—without writing frontend code.

[.blog-callout]

Xano best features

• True no-code API builder: Build GET/POST REST APIs and business logic visually with no code
• Edge Functions: Write serverless tasks in JavaScript or TypeScript and deploy close to your users’ location
• Built-in auth & storage: Manage users, roles, and file storage from the same interface
• Version control and team workspaces: Branch, merge, and reuse components between workspaces
• Unlimited records: Scale freely with no capped row limits
• API connectors: Easily integrate external services like Power BI or Tableau

Xano pricing

• Free plan: $0/month: Includes 1 workspace, up to 100,000 records, and limited access to API and function testing
• Starter plan: $29/month: Good for small apps. Includes unlimited API calls, background tasks, branching, and 7-day backups
• Pro plan: $224/month (billed annually) or $249/month (monthly): Includes dedicated infrastructure, 5 workspaces, 10 team members, and advanced security features
• Enterprise plan: Custom pricing: For large teams needing custom hosting, single sign-on (SSO), audit logs, and 24/7 support

9. MySQL + GUI — best traditional relational database with visual management

MySQL is a popular, open-source database used by many businesses around the world. It is stable, well-documented, and supports large amounts of data. Many teams choose MySQL because it works with many tools and is trusted for long-term use.

To make it easier to use, especially for non-technical users, MySQL can be paired with a GUI (graphical user interface) tool like MySQL Workbench. A GUI lets you manage your data, design tables, and run SQL queries using visual controls instead of typing everything in the command line. Workbench also includes tools for editing database structures, testing queries, checking performance, and making backups. It works on Windows, macOS, and Linux.

MySQL + GUI pros and cons

Pros:

• Reliable, mature, and widely supported open-source database
• Visual schema design, SQL query editing, and server administration via a unified GUI
• Strong documentation and a large community around MySQL and Workbench

Cons:

• Requires SQL knowledge to use well
• GUI tools add complexity—less suitable for non-technical teams

[.blog-callout]

If you already store your data in MySQL, you can build secure and branded business apps like portals, intranets, and other internal tools on top of your data with Softr.

[.blog-callout]

MySQL + GUI Best Features

• Database design visual tools: Build ER diagrams, reverse-engineer schemas, sync changes to live databases
• SQL editor with completion and result panels: Write, test, and manage SQL directly inside Workbench
• Administrative dashboards: Monitor server performance, manage users, configure settings, and take backups
• Plugin support and scripting: Extend functionality using Python or Lua plugins
• Cross-platform GUI: Workbench runs on Windows, macOS, and Linux across editions

MySQL + GUI Pricing

• MySQL Community Edition: Free and open-source
• MySQL Workbench Community Edition: Free
• Enterprise Edition: Paid, includes advanced features like audit logging and enterprise backup tools

10. PostgreSQL — best for teams needing advanced SQL features and extensibility

PostgreSQL is one of the most trusted open-source relational databases used by businesses of all sizes. It’s known for being reliable, secure, and full-featured, with support for complex queries, relational data, and advanced features like full-text search and JSON fields.

While PostgreSQL is often seen as developer-focused, it’s also a strong option for operations, data, and admin teams—especially when paired with user-friendly tools like pgAdmin or DBeaver. These visual interfaces make it easier to browse tables, write queries, manage backups, or inspect performance without needing to use the command line.

For teams that expect their data needs to grow, PostgreSQL offers a strong foundation. It handles large volumes of data, supports real-time reporting, and can be extended with features tailored to your workflow.

PostgreSQL pros and cons

Pros:

• Stable, proven database with strong community and ecosystem
• Works well with visual tools like pgAdmin for easier navigation and editing
• Fully open-source and extensible with custom types and add-ons

Cons:

• Setup and maintenance may require technical support
• Built-in user interfaces are limited without third-party tools

[.blog-callout]

Using PostgreSQL to manage your data? Softr helps you turn that data into a secure, easy-to-use app so your team or clients can access what they need, without extra tools or code.

[.blog-callout]

PostgreSQL best features

• Visual tooling support: Use pgAdmin, DBeaver, or other GUIs to manage your data visually
• Advanced SQL support: Write complex queries, use full-text search, and handle JSON or structured data
• Scalable and reliable: Trusted by companies that need consistent performance at scale
• Custom extensions: Add what you need—whether it’s geospatial data (PostGIS), audit logs, or automation
• Strong access control: Roles, permissions, and encryption options help secure sensitive data

PostgreSQL pricing

• Free to use under an open-source license
• No user, row, or storage limits
• GUI tools like pgAdmin and DBeaver are also free and widely used

Find the user-friendly database software that fits your needs

Before you choose a database, ask yourself:

• Who will be managing the data—technical users or business teams?
• Do you need something visual and no-code, or flexible with SQL?
• Will this data power a portal, a backend, or just stay internal?
• How important are real-time updates, permissions, or scale?

The best database is the one your team will actually use. If you're replacing spreadsheets, start with something approachable like Softr, Airtable, or Baserow.

Want to try it out? Start with a free Softr template and build a user-friendly database software fast — no code required!