SQL Data Compare
Database comparison software
Database software
- Features
- Ease of use
- Ease of management
- Quality of support
- Affordability
- Market presence
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What is SQL Data Compare
SQL Data Compare is a Windows-based tool for comparing and synchronizing the data (rows) between two SQL Server databases. It is used by database developers, DBAs, and release teams to validate environment consistency, troubleshoot data drift, and generate scripts to apply data changes. The product focuses on data-level comparison (as distinct from schema-only comparison) and supports interactive review as well as command-line automation for repeatable workflows.
Purpose-built data synchronization
The product is designed specifically to compare table data and generate synchronization scripts between SQL Server databases. It supports selecting specific tables and rows to include, which helps narrow scope for targeted fixes. This focus can reduce manual effort compared with using general database IDE tooling for data diff tasks.
Script generation and review
It produces SQL scripts to align a target database with a source, enabling change review before execution. Teams can use the generated scripts in controlled deployment processes and retain them for audit trails. This is useful when direct database-to-database updates are not permitted in production workflows.
Automation via command line
SQL Data Compare includes a command-line interface suitable for scheduled jobs and CI/CD pipelines. This enables repeatable comparisons across environments (e.g., dev/test/prod) and supports unattended execution. Automation capabilities are a common requirement in database change management and reduce reliance on manual UI steps.
SQL Server-centric scope
SQL Data Compare is primarily oriented around Microsoft SQL Server, which limits applicability for organizations with heterogeneous database estates. Teams using MySQL, PostgreSQL, or NoSQL platforms typically need separate tools for equivalent data comparison. This can increase tooling fragmentation in mixed environments.
Windows-first deployment model
The product is commonly deployed as a Windows desktop application, which may not align with Linux-first engineering environments. While command-line automation helps, running it in containerized or cross-platform build agents may require additional setup. This can add operational overhead compared with fully cross-platform tooling.
Not a full database IDE
It focuses on data comparison and synchronization rather than providing broad database development features like query editing, performance diagnostics, and administration in one workspace. Users often pair it with separate database management tools for day-to-day development and operations. This separation can introduce context switching for teams that prefer an all-in-one environment.
Plan & Pricing
| Plan | Price | Key features & notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1–4 users (1 year subscription) | Price not displayed on Redgate product/pricing page (dynamic/cart) — per user/year. | Standard edition features included; see product page for Standard vs Pro. Try free for 14 days. Source: Redgate product/pricing pages. |
| 5–9 users (1 year subscription) | Price not displayed on Redgate product/pricing page (dynamic/cart) — per user/year (volume discount). | Discounts apply for multi-user purchases; contact sales for help. |
| 10–19 users (1 year subscription) | Price not displayed on Redgate product/pricing page (dynamic/cart) — per user/year (larger volume discount). | Contact sales for exact pricing. |
| 20+ users | Contact sales / personalized quote. | sales@red-gate.com; phone numbers shown on site. |
Seller details
Redgate Software Ltd
Cambridge, United Kingdom
1999
Private
https://www.red-gate.com/
https://x.com/redgate
https://www.linkedin.com/company/redgate-software/
