Can you guess how much data is generated in a day?
To manage so much data, we need ways to store, organize, edit and retrieve the relevant information. While data management methods handle data storage and organization, SQL handles adding, editing, and retrieving data from the databases.
But SQL is not enough as it is only a programming language. You need an online SQL compiler. You need a tool to compile and run the program.
What Is An Online SQL Compiler?
Let’s first understand what SQL is.
Standard Query Language or SQL is a programming language used to access and manipulate data in a relational database. Using SQL, you can create, delete and modify tables. You can also insert, search, update, delete and retrieve records from databases. In short, SQL is used to operate and maintain databases.
What’s a compiler in terms of programming? A compiler is a software tool that translates a programming language’s source code to a low-level language.
What is a SQL compiler?
It is a compiler that converts SQL to a low-level language like machine code. Regarding SQL compilers, you have two options: desktop and online. For desktop SQL compilers, you need to install them on your computer, while you can use online SQL compilers directly on browsers without any prior installation.
If you don’t know SQL and are wondering why you bother learning it, here are 7 reasons to enrol in an SQL course.
How To Choose the Best Online SQL Compiler?
Many different SQL compilers are available online, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. So, consider these factors before you choose a compiler:
- User Interface (UI): UI is not limited to nice visuals and colours but a clean and responsive interface. You need to quickly navigate through the menus on the compiler.
- Features: Most free online SQL compilers have basic features that are sufficient for a student or beginner learning SQL. But if you are working on some big projects associated with a company, you will need extra features which are usually available in premium versions.
- Usability: Ease-of-use is essential because you don’t want to spend too much time learning the tool before using it. Look for features like auto-complete and error highlighting that help you work faster.
- Price: Full-fledged projects often need premium SQL features. Make sure that the software is not just affordable for you but is worth the money. However, if you are a beginner learning SQL, the price wouldn’t matter much as most free compilers have the basic features.
5 Best Online SQL Compilers
Below are the 5 best online SQL compilers that are free to use:
1. Microsoft SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS)
Apart from basic table and database operations, you can use it to configure, manage and administer all SQL server components. One of the oldest online SQL compilers, Microsoft SSMS, highlights syntax errors before running your queries. Other features include assigning permissions to databases and their objects, SQL profiler, reporting, performance analysis etc.
2. Oracle Live SQL
Oracle Live SQL is more focused on SQL with PL/SQL and comes with documentation and tutorials. It is a great tool when working with Oracle DB, and you need to use standard SQL to work with other databases. It supports testing and sharing, which is useful for beginners.
3. SQL Fiddle
SQL Fiddle is a good choice for learners as it allows you to query sample databases. It is a free, open-source SQL compiler cum editor that supports many types of databases. Apart from compiling SQL codes, you can also use it for testing, sharing SQL snippets and debugging.
4. SQuirreL SQL
SQuirrel SQL is an open-source compiler and editor entirely developed in JAVA. It can run on any platform as long as it has JVM (Java Virtual Machine). It has many features like graphs and charts to show the relationship between tables, comparison of data over multiple sessions, data sharing, bookmarking and generating user-defined code.
5. DBeaver
DBeaver is more of a database management tool that includes an online SQL compiler and supports many databases. Its query builder comes in handy for beginners. Its auto-complete feature lets you quickly type your scripts. You can also organize your scripts into folders and subfolders and later save, export and import them.
Takeaway
Each SQL compiler has its pros and cons but you need to select one based on your needs. Consider factors like user interface, features, usability and price.
Since there are many compilers out there, we have shortlisted the top 5. Give them a try before selecting the best online SQL compiler for your project.
But ofcourse, for a successful tech career, you need to learn not just SQL but other leading programming languages too.
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