Is there a good free SQL Server IDE?

Question

For Oracle, I have found TOAD to be an excellent tool. Oracle's SQL Developer isn't too bad either.

But for SQL Server, the only good choice seems to be the SQL Server Management Studio, where even simple things are made difficult.

Can anyone recommend a good (preferably free) SQL Editor / Object Browser for SQL Server?

Answer 1

Red Gate's SQL Prompt helps to make SSMS less painful.

Answer 2

If you like TOAD, it looks like they have a version for SQL Server

http://www.toadsoft.com/toadsqlserver/toad_sqlserver.htm

Looks like you have to pay for the "cool" features...

Answer 3

I tend to use management studio for all of my sql server activities. But when I have to fight with Oracle or Sybase at work, I find that SqlDbx is a pretty good light weight tool if all you need is browsing and running basic queries. I haven't used it for any kind of administration though. Perhaps it will work well for you in the sql server world?

Answer 4

I would like to know why you think SQL Server Management Studio is difficult to use. I use it and find it pretty straight forward. It's free to download and use from Microsoft's site.

Answer 5

Query ExPlus or the original QueryExpress are both free.

Answer 6

If you are an OSS developer, you can get a free license for Aqua Data Studio.

It's cross-platform-- Windows, OS X, and *NIX.

http://www.aquafold.com/licensing.html

They also have discounts for educational use.

Answer 7

I used WinSQL Lite a few years ago for simple tasks, and it worked fine for me.