Npgsql
Npgsql: A PostgreSQL-focused .NET driver that pools connections inside each application. Ranked #16 of 29 in Database Connection Pooling Software by our editors (7.4/10); pricing: Free plan; best for postgreSQL .NET applications.
At a glance
- Editor score7.4 / 10
- PricingFree plan
- Best forPostgreSQL .NET applications
- Free planYes
- Paid fromFree
- Transaction poolingNo
- Facts checked14 Nov 2026
Where it wins
- Pooling is enabled by default with configurable pool limits and lifetimes
- Multiplexing, failover, and load balancing support multi-host PostgreSQL use
- ADO.NET transactions, bulk I/O, and Entity Framework Core integration included
Where it doesn't
- Embedded pooling does not provide a standalone pooler service
- Supports PostgreSQL rather than multiple database engines
- Transaction pooling is not an Npgsql pooling mode
Our verdict on Npgsql
Npgsql is an open-source ADO.NET data provider for applications written in .NET that connect to PostgreSQL. It suits teams building solo, small, mid-market, or enterprise applications that want connection pooling within the application process. Disposing a connection returns its underlying physical connection to an internal pool, where it can be reused. PostgreSQL commands and transactions are available through ADO.NET APIs, while Entity Framework Core integration supports applications using that ecosystem.
Pooling is enabled by default, and connection-string parameters control minimum and maximum pool sizes, idle lifetime, and total connection lifetime. The published configuration uses a default maximum pool size of 100, while the limit remains adjustable. Connection multiplexing can improve use of available connections, and multi-host connections add failover and load-balancing options. Bulk import and export APIs extend the provider beyond basic query access. As a self-hosted library, Npgsql fits deployments that keep database connectivity logic alongside application code rather than operating a separate connection service.
The main boundary is architectural: Npgsql's pool is local to each application and is not a standalone pooling server. Its documented pooling modes are session connection pooling and connection multiplexing; transaction pooling is not an Npgsql mode. PostgreSQL is the supported database, so teams needing one pooler across different database engines or a centralized pooler should consider a separate product. Community support and documentation are the listed support channels. Choose Npgsql when a .NET application needs PostgreSQL connectivity with built-in pooling and EF Core support; choose an alternative when centralized pooling or broader database coverage is required.
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Npgsql pricing
Npgsql fact sheet
| Free plan | Yes |
|---|---|
| Paid from | Free |
| Transaction pooling | No |
| Pooling modes | Session connection pooling; connection multiplexing |
| Deployment model | Embedded |
| Supported databases | PostgreSQL |
| Connection limit | 100 connections |
| Protocol support | PostgreSQL wire protocol |
| Deployment | Self-hosted |
| Support | Community, Docs |
| Built for | Solo, Small business, Mid-market, Enterprise (editorial estimate) |
| Integrations | 1 integrations: Entity Framework Core |
| Pricing | Free plan |
| Website | npgsql.org |
| Facts checked | 14 Nov 2026 |
Npgsql integrations
Npgsql lists 1 integrations on its own site.
- Entity Framework Core
Alternatives to Npgsql
- MariaDB MaxScaleSQL-aware pooling and routing for MariaDB and MySQL-compatible production environments.9.3
- OdysseyA focused, open-source pooler for PostgreSQL session and transaction workloads.9.1
- PgBouncerA self-hosted PostgreSQL pooler with flexible modes and connection controls, but no built-in failover.8.9
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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Nov 2026
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