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# ApexSQL vs dbForge SQL Complete Comparison - What are their main differences?

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ApexSQLdbForge SQL Complete[+ Add Product](#)

Reviews

**ApexSQL** [

4.4/5(30)

](https://www.g2.com/products/apexsql/reviews#reviews)

**dbForge SQL Complete** [

4.6/5(58)

](https://www.g2.com/products/dbforge-sql-complete/reviews#reviews)

Pricing

**ApexSQL**
No pricing available

**dbForge SQL Complete**
Free Trial

**Free** · Express

**Pricing Insights**
from reviews

Time to Implement

**ApexSQL**
Not enough reviews yet

**dbForge SQL Complete**
Not enough reviews yet

Return on Investment

**ApexSQL**
Not enough reviews yet

**dbForge SQL Complete**
Not enough reviews yet

Perceived Cost

**ApexSQL**
$$$$$

**dbForge SQL Complete**
$$$$$

Average Discount

**ApexSQL**
Not enough reviews yet

**dbForge SQL Complete**
Not enough reviews yet

Pros & Cons

**ApexSQL**
Not enough data

**dbForge SQL Complete**
Not enough data

Screenshots

**ApexSQL**
No screenshot available

**dbForge SQL Complete**
 ![dbForge SQL Complete screenshot](https://images.g2crowd.com/cdn-cgi/image/width=600,height=600,fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,/https://images.g2crowd.com/uploads/attachment/file/1402497/getting-started-autocompletion.png)

Ratings

Meets Requirements

**ApexSQL**

9.0

9.024

**dbForge SQL Complete**

9.0

9.038

Ease of Use

**ApexSQL**

9.1

9.125

**dbForge SQL Complete**

9.4

9.438

Ease of Setup

**ApexSQL**

7.7

7.78

**dbForge SQL Complete**

9.1

9.117

Ease of Admin

**ApexSQL**

8.1

8.18

**dbForge SQL Complete**

8.6

8.617

Quality of Support

**ApexSQL**

9.1

9.123

**dbForge SQL Complete**

9.0

9.026

Has the product been a good partner in doing business?

**ApexSQL**

8.3

8.38

**dbForge SQL Complete**

8.3

8.314

Product Direction (% positive)

**ApexSQL**

9.5

9.524

**dbForge SQL Complete**

8.7

8.735

Features

Database Management Systems (DBMS)[Hide 48 FeaturesShow 48 Features](javascript:void(0);)

8.7

16

9.3

13

Management

Data dictionary

8.8

14

9.2(won by 0.4)

11

Data Replication

8.3

14

9.6(won by 1.3)

8

 (There is a greater than 0.5 difference between this product's rating and its competitors)

Query Language

8.9

14

9.5(won by 0.6)

10

 (There is a greater than 0.5 difference between this product's rating and its competitors)

Data Modeling

9.0(won by 0.1)

14

8.9

9

Performance Analysis

8.8

14

8.9(won by 0.1)

9

Data Synchronization

Not enough data

Not enough data

Real-Time Data

Not enough data

Not enough data

Data Storage Management

Not enough data

Not enough data

Maintenance

Data Migration

8.7

14

9.2(won by 0.5)

8

 (There is a greater than 0.5 difference between this product's rating and its competitors)

Backup and Recovery

8.5

14

9.8(won by 1.3)

8

 (There is a greater than 0.5 difference between this product's rating and its competitors)

Multi-User Environment

8.6

14

9.1(won by 0.5)

9

 (There is a greater than 0.5 difference between this product's rating and its competitors)

Automatic Backup

Not enough data

Not enough data

Database Conversion

Not enough data

Not enough data

Security

Data Encryption

8.9

14

9.6(won by 0.7)

8

 (There is a greater than 0.5 difference between this product's rating and its competitors)

User Access Control

8.9

14

9.2(won by 0.3)

8

Mobile Access

Not enough data

Not enough data

Additional Functionality

Workflow Management

Not enough data

Not enough data

Third-Party Integrations

Not enough data

Not enough data

Data Extraction

Not enough data

Not enough data

Relational Database Management

Not enough data

Not enough data

SSL Security

Not enough data

Not enough data

API

Not enough data

Not enough data

Data Connectors

Not enough data

Not enough data

Search/Filter

Not enough data

Not enough data

Reporting & Statistics

Not enough data

Not enough data

Customizable Templates

Not enough data

Not enough data

AI Copilot

Not enough data

Not enough data

Full Text Search

Not enough data

Not enough data

Data Virtualization

Not enough data

Not enough data

Data Import/Export

Not enough data

Not enough data

Generative AI

Not enough data

Not enough data

Drag & Drop

Not enough data

Not enough data

Customizable Fields

Not enough data

Not enough data

Authentication

Not enough data

Not enough data

Data Visualization

Not enough data

Not enough data

Secure Data Storage

Not enough data

Not enough data

Activity Dashboard

Not enough data

Not enough data

Data Mapping

Not enough data

Not enough data

Multiple Programming Languages Supported

Not enough data

Not enough data

Data Capture and Transfer

Not enough data

Not enough data

User Management

Not enough data

Not enough data

NOSQL Database Management

Not enough data

Not enough data

Access Controls/Permissions

Not enough data

Not enough data

Calendar Management

Not enough data

Not enough data

Real-Time Monitoring

Not enough data

Not enough data

Document Storage

Not enough data

Not enough data

Audit Management

Not enough data

Not enough data

Charting

Not enough data

Not enough data

Relational Databases[Hide 24 FeaturesShow 24 Features](javascript:void(0);)

7.8

11

Not enough data

Management 

Data Schema

7.8(won by default)

6

Not enough data

Query Language

8.3(won by default)

6

Not enough data

ACID - Complaint

7.0(won by default)

5

Not enough data

Data Replication

7.2(won by default)

6

Not enough data

Support 

Text Search

8.3(won by default)

6

Not enough data

Data Types

7.5(won by default)

6

Not enough data

Languages

7.5(won by default)

6

Not enough data

Operating Systems

8.1(won by default)

6

Not enough data

Security

Database Locking

7.5(won by default)

6

Not enough data

Access Control

7.8(won by default)

6

Not enough data

Encryption

7.8(won by default)

6

Not enough data

Authentication

7.8(won by default)

6

Not enough data

Performance 

Disaster Recovery

8.1(won by default)

6

Not enough data

Data Concurrency

7.2(won by default)

6

Not enough data

Workload Management

7.5(won by default)

6

Not enough data

Advanced Indexing

7.5(won by default)

6

Not enough data

Query Optimizer

7.2(won by default)

6

Not enough data

Database Features

Storage

8.1(won by default)

9

Not enough data

Availability

7.8(won by default)

9

Not enough data

Stability

8.7(won by default)

9

Not enough data

Scalability

8.3(won by default)

9

Not enough data

Security

8.5(won by default)

9

Not enough data

Data Manipulation

8.5(won by default)

9

Not enough data

Query Language

8.3(won by default)

9

Not enough data

SQL Integrated Development Environments (IDE)[Hide 6 FeaturesShow 6 Features](javascript:void(0);)

Not enough data

8.9

12

Integration - SQL Integrated Development Environments (IDE)

Running Queries

Not enough data

8.8(won by default)

12

Integration

Not enough data

8.6(won by default)

12

Debugging

Not enough data

8.3(won by default)

11

Code Completion

Not enough data

9.2(won by default)

11

Management - SQL Integrated Development Environments (IDE)

SQL Scripting

Not enough data

9.3(won by default)

12

Read & Write

Not enough data

9.3(won by default)

12

User Insights

Reviewers' Company Size

[![ApexSQL](https://images.g2crowd.com/uploads/product/image/thumb_square/thumb_square_e1005b347e629fda887f57493bb5f744/apexsql.jpg "ApexSQL")](https://www.g2.com/products/apexsql/reviews)

ApexSQL

Small-Business(50 or fewer emp.)

46.4%

Mid-Market(51-1000 emp.)

42.9%

Enterprise(\> 1000 emp.)

10.7%

[![dbForge SQL Complete](https://images.g2crowd.com/uploads/product/hd_favicon/1548784290/dbforge-sql-complete.svg "dbForge SQL Complete")](https://www.g2.com/products/dbforge-sql-complete/reviews)

dbForge SQL Complete

Small-Business(50 or fewer emp.)

64.8%

Mid-Market(51-1000 emp.)

25.9%

Enterprise(\> 1000 emp.)

9.3%

Small-Business

(50 or fewer emp.)

46.4%

64.8%

Mid-Market

(51-1000 emp.)

42.9%

25.9%

Enterprise

(\> 1000 emp.)

10.7%

9.3%

Reviewers' Industry

[![ApexSQL](https://images.g2crowd.com/uploads/product/image/thumb_square/thumb_square_e1005b347e629fda887f57493bb5f744/apexsql.jpg "ApexSQL")](https://www.g2.com/products/apexsql/reviews)
ApexSQL

Computer Software

42.9%

Information Technology and Services

21.4%

Wireless

3.6%

Utilities

3.6%

Transportation/Trucking/Railroad

3.6%

Other

25.0%

[![dbForge SQL Complete](https://images.g2crowd.com/uploads/product/hd_favicon/1548784290/dbforge-sql-complete.svg "dbForge SQL Complete")](https://www.g2.com/products/dbforge-sql-complete/reviews)
dbForge SQL Complete

Computer Software

29.6%

Financial Services

9.3%

Information Technology and Services

7.4%

Accounting

5.6%

Program Development

5.6%

Other

42.6%

FAQs

## ApexSQL vs dbForge SQL Complete FAQs

Generated using AI

Last updated: August 15, 2026

### What is the difference between dbForge SQL Complete vs ApexSQL?

dbForge SQL Complete stands out for its higher G2 rating and ease of setup compared to ApexSQL, with both products delivering strong support and productivity features.

| [dbForge SQL Complete](https://www.g2.com/products/dbforge-sql-complete/reviews) | [ApexSQL](https://www.g2.com/products/apexsql/reviews) |
| --- | --- |
| 4.6/5 (58 reviews) | 4.4/5 (30 reviews) |
| — | — |
| 9.1 | 7.7 |
| 9.0 | 9.1 |
| IntelliSense and productivity-boosting code completion | Comprehensive toolset for SQL Server management |

### How do the pricing models of dbForge SQL Complete and ApexSQL compare?

dbForge SQL Complete is rated higher for value, with a stronger Price/Cost satisfaction score than ApexSQL.

- **dbForge SQL Complete:** In recent reviews, many users describe the product as worth the price for its features and productivity gains, though some note the cost is higher than competitors.
- **ApexSQL:** Reviewers frequently mention that the cost is a concern, especially for small teams or individual users, and that the pricing structure can be a barrier despite the comprehensive feature set.
- **Switching reasons:** Reviewers cite value and feature set as primary reasons for choosing dbForge SQL Complete over alternatives, while ApexSQL's pricing is often mentioned as a reason to consider other options.

### What are the best alternatives to dbForge SQL Complete and ApexSQL?

The top 3 alternatives to dbForge SQL Complete and ApexSQL are PostgreSQL, MS SQL, and Snowflake.

| Product | G2 Rating (reviews) | Largest Segment | Pricing Insight | Top Reviewer-Cited Strength |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| [dbForge SQL Complete](https://www.g2.com/products/dbforge-sql-complete/reviews) | 4.6/5 (58) | — | Worth the price for productivity features | IntelliSense and code completion |
| [ApexSQL](https://www.g2.com/products/apexsql/reviews) | 4.4/5 (30) | — | Pricing can be a barrier for small teams | Comprehensive SQL Server management tools |
| [PostgreSQL](https://www.g2.com/products/postgresql/reviews) | 4.4/5 (684) | Small-Business | — | Open-source flexibility and reliability |
| [MS SQL](https://www.g2.com/products/microsoft-sql-server/reviews) | 4.4/5 (2287) | Enterprise | — | Enterprise-grade scalability and integration |
| [Snowflake](https://www.g2.com/products/snowflake/reviews) | 4.5/5 (763) | Mid-Market | — | Cloud-native data warehousing |

### Which Database Management Systems (DBMS) features should I prioritize when comparing dbForge SQL Complete and ApexSQL?

Buyers comparing dbForge SQL Complete and ApexSQL should prioritize code completion, ease of setup, quality of support, integration capabilities, and pricing satisfaction.

- **Code completion and productivity:** dbForge SQL Complete is frequently praised for IntelliSense and code completion features; ApexSQL is noted for its comprehensive toolset.
- **Ease of setup:** dbForge SQL Complete scores 9.1, ApexSQL 7.7.
- **Quality of support:** dbForge SQL Complete scores 9.0, ApexSQL 9.1.
- **Integration capabilities:** Both products are mentioned for integration with SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS), with dbForge SQL Complete also noted for integration with Visual Studio.
- **Pricing satisfaction:** dbForge SQL Complete is rated higher for value, with reviewers noting its features justify the cost, while ApexSQL's pricing is cited as a trade-off.

### What are the pros and cons of dbForge SQL Complete vs ApexSQL?

dbForge SQL Complete's headline strength is its advanced IntelliSense and productivity features, while ApexSQL is recognized for its comprehensive SQL Server management toolset.

- **dbForge SQL Complete strengths:** Advanced IntelliSense, code completion, formatting, productivity boosts, integration with SSMS and Visual Studio, and strong support experiences.
- **dbForge SQL Complete trade-offs:** Some reviewers mention a steep learning curve, occasional performance slowdowns in SSMS, and higher cost compared to competitors.
- **ApexSQL strengths:** Comprehensive suite for SQL Server management, user-friendly interface, robust features for auditing, backup, recovery, and schema comparison, and reliable performance with large databases.
- **ApexSQL trade-offs:** Pricing is frequently cited as a concern for small teams, some features have a steep learning curve, and integration with non-SQL Server tools is less robust.

### Is dbForge SQL Complete or ApexSQL better for small businesses?

dbForge SQL Complete is the better fit for small businesses, with reviewers highlighting its value and productivity benefits for smaller teams.

- **dbForge SQL Complete:** Reviewers from small businesses consistently praise its productivity features and value, noting it accelerates SQL development and is worth the investment for smaller teams.
- **ApexSQL:** Reviewers note that while the toolset is comprehensive, the pricing structure can be a barrier for small businesses or individual users.

### Which Database Management Systems (DBMS) platform has better integrations?

dbForge SQL Complete and ApexSQL are rated at parity for integrations, with both products mentioned for integration with SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS).

- **dbForge SQL Complete:** In recent reviews, users highlight integration with SSMS and Visual Studio as key strengths.
- **ApexSQL:** Reviewers mention integration with SSMS, but note that integration with other SQL query tools is less robust.

### How do dbForge SQL Complete and ApexSQL compare on customer support?

dbForge SQL Complete and ApexSQL are rated at parity on Quality of Support, with scores of 9.0 and 9.1 respectively, indicating both deliver strong support experiences.

- **dbForge SQL Complete:** Reviewers consistently describe responsive and helpful support, with many citing quick answers and effective problem resolution.
- **ApexSQL:** Reviewers praise the support team for being helpful and responsive, with several noting excellent customer service and timely assistance.

### Which is easier to implement, dbForge SQL Complete or ApexSQL?

dbForge SQL Complete is easier to implement, with a 1.4-point higher Ease of Setup score than ApexSQL.

- **dbForge SQL Complete:** Reviewers frequently mention easy installation and setup, with scores reflecting a smooth onboarding experience.
- **ApexSQL:** Reviewers note that setup can be more complex, especially for beginners, and some mention a steeper learning curve during implementation.

### Which product has better Integration?

dbForge SQL Complete and ApexSQL are rated at parity for Integration, with both products supporting integration with SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS) and receiving positive reviewer feedback.

- **dbForge SQL Complete:** Integration is frequently cited as a strength, with reviewers highlighting compatibility with SSMS and Visual Studio.
- **ApexSQL:** Reviewers note strong integration with SSMS, though some mention limitations with other SQL tools.

Alternatives

**ApexSQL Alternatives**

 ![PostgreSQL](https://images.g2crowd.com/uploads/product/image/thumb_square/thumb_square_251be2af3ae607c45c14e816eaa1cf41/postgresql.png "PostgreSQL")

[
PostgreSQL
](/products/postgresql/reviews)

 ![Microsoft SQL Server](https://images.g2crowd.com/uploads/product/hd_favicon/a8a99a96fda235658139f710592f8a53/microsoft-sql-server.svg "Microsoft SQL Server")

[
MS SQL
](/products/microsoft-sql-server/reviews)

 ![Snowflake](https://images.g2crowd.com/uploads/product/hd_favicon/1544409170/snowflake.svg "Snowflake")

[
Snowflake
](/products/snowflake/reviews)

 ![IBM Db2](https://images.g2crowd.com/uploads/product/hd_favicon/1553782253/ibm-db2.svg "IBM Db2")

[
IBM Db2
](/products/ibm-db2/reviews)

**dbForge SQL Complete Alternatives**

 ![Microsoft SQL Server](https://images.g2crowd.com/uploads/product/hd_favicon/a8a99a96fda235658139f710592f8a53/microsoft-sql-server.svg "Microsoft SQL Server")

[
MS SQL
](/products/microsoft-sql-server/reviews)

 ![Snowflake](https://images.g2crowd.com/uploads/product/hd_favicon/1544409170/snowflake.svg "Snowflake")

[
Snowflake
](/products/snowflake/reviews)

 ![MongoDB Atlas](https://images.g2crowd.com/uploads/product/hd_favicon/d217eaad5fe841fcdd1136204e725516/mongodb-atlas%282%29.svg "MongoDB Atlas")

[
MongoDB Atlas
](/products/mongodb-atlas/reviews)

 ![SAS Viya](https://images.g2crowd.com/uploads/product/hd_favicon/bd7a361df879327ee92c1d048aada28e/sas-sas-viya.svg "SAS Viya")

[
SAS Viya
](/products/sas-sas-viya/reviews)

## ApexSQL vs dbForge SQL Complete

When assessing the two solutions, reviewers found dbForge SQL Complete easier to use, set up, and administer. However, reviewers felt that both vendors make it equally easy to do business overall.

- ApexSQL and dbForge SQL Complete both meet the requirements of our reviewers at a comparable rate.
- When comparing quality of ongoing product support, reviewers felt that ApexSQL is the preferred option.
- For feature updates and roadmaps, our reviewers preferred the direction of ApexSQL over dbForge SQL Complete.