How to compare the structure of two MS SQL databases?

Question

I need a free tool or some kind of tip/technique to compare the structure of two Microsoft SQL databases. Preferably MS SQL 2005.

The technique I tried to make work was generating scripts from both databases and then comparing the two files but SQL Server generates object in random order.

Answer 1

I use this tool: http://www.codeplex.com/ScriptDB on my dev database.

Then I check all the files into svn and diff the files generated to see what needs to be changed in my live database. Works for me.

Answer 2

If you have Visual Studio 2008 (Database Edition) you can use that to compare SQL schemas.

Note that SQL Server 2008 support requires an update:

http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx?FamilyID=bb3ad767-5f69-4db9-b1c9-8f55759846ed&displaylang=en

Answer 3

it's only free on trial for 14 days, but redgate sql compare is pretty good and easy to use.

Answer 4

Ditto for RedGate SQL Compare....I've used it extensively for very large and complex DBs and it did the trick every time.

Answer 5

You can try Nob Hill's Database compare tool, for data and schema compare - cheaper than other tools .. :)

Answer 6

Take a look at dbForge Schema Compare for SQL Server. It's not a freeware, but has 30-days free trial period, 30-days guaranteed money-back, and also you have a possibility to get a free license - please visit free license conditions page.