sqddl review
A Go CLI for declarative schema migrations across four database engines.
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
sqddl is an open-source database migration tool for developers who want to define a destination schema declaratively and manage database changes from Go. It suits solo developers and small teams that prefer a command-line workflow, while its stated fit also includes mid-market organizations. The tool supports SQLite, PostgreSQL, MySQL, and SQL Server, and runs on Windows, macOS, and Linux. Its focus is migration generation and execution rather than a visual change-review process.
A central capability is comparing a source schema with a declarative destination schema to generate migration files, or automatically migrating a database from that schema. sqddl can run pending SQL migration files and record applied migrations in a history table. Transactional migrations can be configured per migration, and repeatable migrations run again when file contents change. For Go applications, migrations can be embedded and run at startup. These features make it a fit for teams comfortable managing changes through schemas and SQL files; teams that require visual review before deployment should look elsewhere.
The scope extends beyond migrations: sqddl can dump database schema and data, load SQL and CSV files, and generate Go structs for tables and views. It is open source with a free plan, and deployment is self-hosted. The repository documents command-line installation and usage, with documentation as the stated support channel. This approach keeps the tool oriented toward developers managing their own workflow, but does not provide a hosted service. Choose sqddl when declarative migrations, multiple database engines, and Go integration matter; consider another product if change review or managed hosting is central to your process.
sqddl pros and cons
- Where it wins
- Generates migrations by comparing source and declarative destination schemas
- Supports SQLite, PostgreSQL, MySQL, and SQL Server
- Offers transactional and repeatable migrations, plus startup execution in Go apps
- Where it doesn't
- No visual change-review workflow
- Deployment is self-hosted rather than a hosted service
- Documentation is the stated support channel
sqddl fact sheet, pricing and score →
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