SysTools SQL MDF Viewer
File reader software
- Features
- Ease of use
- Ease of management
- Quality of support
- Affordability
- Market presence
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$249 one-time per computer
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Free version
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What is SysTools SQL MDF Viewer
SysTools SQL MDF Viewer is a Windows utility for opening and reading Microsoft SQL Server MDF (and typically associated NDF/LDF) database files without attaching them to a live SQL Server instance. It is used by database administrators, support teams, and auditors to inspect tables, views, stored procedures, and other database objects from offline files. The tool focuses on read-only viewing and export workflows rather than database administration or editing.
Purpose-built for MDF files
The product targets SQL Server database file formats (MDF and related files) rather than general document types. This specialization supports common SQL Server object browsing such as tables and views. It fits scenarios where users need to inspect database contents from a file system artifact instead of a running database.
Works without SQL Server attach
It is designed for situations where attaching a database to SQL Server is not possible or not desired (for example, incident response or quick triage). This can reduce dependency on having a configured SQL Server environment for basic review. It also helps when the goal is inspection rather than operational use.
Export-oriented review workflow
The viewer commonly supports exporting selected data or objects to other formats for sharing or analysis. This is useful for handing off findings to non-DBA stakeholders or for documentation. The workflow aligns with read/verify/report use cases typical of file reader tools.
Not a general file reader
The tool is specific to SQL Server database files and does not address broader file viewing needs (PDF, images, office documents, etc.). Organizations looking for a single viewer across many formats will still need additional software. This limits its role to database-focused teams.
Limited editing and administration
As a viewer, it is oriented to read-only access and export rather than full database management. Tasks like schema changes, query tuning, user/security management, and operational maintenance remain out of scope. Users may need SQL Server tools for deeper work.
Windows-centric desktop utility
SysTools MDF viewing tools are typically delivered as Windows desktop applications. This can be a constraint for macOS/Linux environments or teams that prefer browser-based access. It may also complicate centralized deployment and access control compared with server-hosted tools.
Plan & Pricing
| Plan | Price | Key features & notes |
|---|---|---|
| Free (Demo / Free Download) | Free | Allows viewing MDF/NDF files, preview tables/objects, save scanned .str file for future use. Demo limitations apply (view/preview only). Source: product page Demo/Free Download. |
| MDF Viewer Pro — Single Machine | $249 (electronic, one-time) | Full license (recover & save entire data, export recovered data to SQL Server, two advanced scanning modes, save scanned MDF in STR, support for latest SQL Server versions). Includes 1 year free product updates, 24x7 technical support and 30-day money-back guarantee. |
| MDF Viewer Pro — "Input the number of machine" (example on buy page) | $345 | The buy page shows an example price value of $345 under "Input the number of machine" (appears as an option on the vendor buy page). Contact sales for clarification. |
| MDF Viewer Pro — Bulk / Per-machine indicator on buy page | 69 USD / Per Machine (as shown on buy page) | The buy page also displays "69 USD / Per Machine" and directs bulk/bulk-migration inquiries to sales. Clarify with vendor for exact bulk pricing and thresholds. |
Seller details
SysTools Software Pvt. Ltd.
Pune, Maharashtra, India
2007
Private
https://www.systoolsgroup.com/
https://x.com/systoolsgroup
https://www.linkedin.com/company/systools-software-pvt-ltd/
