InterBase
InterBase: A versatile embedded SQL database for applications spanning desktop, mobile, and server deployments. Ranked #29 of 37 in Relational Databases by our editors (6.6/10); pricing: Free plan; best for cross-platform embedded relational apps.
At a glance
- Editor score6.6 / 10
- PricingFree plan
- Best forCross-platform embedded relational apps
- Free planYes
- Deployment modelSelf_hosted
- Facts checked22 Sep 2026
Where it wins
- Supports Windows, Linux, macOS, iOS, and Android deployments
- Includes procedures, triggers, backups, and point-in-time recovery
- Offers AES-256 encryption, TLS 1.2+, and multiple connectivity options
Where it doesn't
- Developer Edition is restricted to non-production use
- Paid editions require choosing among deployment-specific licenses
- Teams needing managed service coverage should compare alternatives
Our verdict on InterBase
InterBase is a relational SQL database for software developers building independent applications, enterprise systems, and embedded IoT or mobile solutions. Its deployment options cover server and embedded use across Windows, Linux, macOS, iOS, and Android. The product combines SQL-92 compliance with stored procedures, triggers, transaction management, graphical and command-line administration, and connectivity through ODBC, JDBC, ADO.NET, Python, FireDAC, and IBX. It suits teams that want one database technology across desktop, mobile, and server targets.
The edition structure maps to different deployment needs. Developer Edition is free for development but restricted to non-production use. ToGo Lite provides an embedded database engine for Windows, Linux, macOS, iOS, and Android. ToGo Pro adds an annual subscription and a no-limit deployment license. Desktop offers a local server engine with a perpetual license, while Server provides a comprehensive RDBMS with Windows and Linux server support. This gives application teams a path from development to embedded or server deployment, although selecting the right edition depends on the intended runtime and licensing model.
InterBase’s deeper database capabilities are suited to applications that need local operation, recovery controls, and data synchronization. Online backup and restore, journaling, point-in-time recovery, incremental data dumps, and Change Views support operational continuity and tracking of data changes. AES-256 encryption and TLS 1.2+ address data protection, while optimistic row-level locking and multigenerational architecture support transaction management. Choose InterBase when cross-platform embedding, SQL capabilities, and deployment flexibility are priorities. Teams that require high availability or a managed database service should compare alternatives with those requirements at the center.
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InterBase pricing
All 3 InterBase plans and prices →
InterBase fact sheet
| Free plan | Yes |
|---|---|
| Paid from | Not verified |
| Deployment model | Self_hosted |
| Managed service | Not verified |
| High availability | Not verified |
| Read replicas | Not verified |
| Backup retention | Not verified |
| JSON data support | Not verified |
| Maximum connections | Not verified |
| Deployment | Self-hosted, Desktop, Mobile |
| Platforms | Windows, Linux, macOS, iOS, Android |
| Support | Community, Docs |
| Built for | Small business, Mid-market, Enterprise (editorial estimate) |
| Integrations | 6 integrations: ODBC, JDBC, ADO.NET, Python, RAD Studio FireDAC, RAD Studio IBX |
| Pricing | Free plan (source) |
| Website | embarcadero.com |
| Facts checked | 22 Sep 2026 |
InterBase integrations
InterBase lists 6 integrations on its own site.
- ODBC
- JDBC
- ADO.NET
- Python
- RAD Studio FireDAC
- RAD Studio IBX
Alternatives to InterBase
- PostgreSQLA free, extensible relational database for production workloads and technical teams.9.4
- MySQLA versatile open-source SQL database with replication, JSON, connectors, and failover.9.3
- Oracle DatabaseA mature enterprise database with unusually broad data-model and availability capabilities.9.2
See all InterBase alternatives →
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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
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