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SQL Enlight review

#4 of 25 in SQL Linters and Formatters

A Windows toolkit for analyzing, formatting, fixing, and refactoring T-SQL.

8.6/10Editor score
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SQL Enlight8.6 Visit SQL Enlight

Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026

SQL Enlight is a Windows-based tool for SQL Server developers, database professionals, and build environments working with T-SQL. It combines static code and database analysis with SQL formatting, automatic fixes, and refactoring. The product supports SQL Server Management Studio and Visual Studio extensions, while command-line analysis, reporting, MSBuild tasks, and an Automation API extend it into build and delivery workflows. It is suited to teams that want development-time guidance and repeatable analysis around SQL Server code rather than a cross-database SQL tool.

Its strongest fit is the connection between analysis depth and workflow integration. SQL Enlight can detect code and database issues, apply automatic code and database fixes, and support custom analysis rules using XPath and XSLT. Teams can also use configuration files, editor extensions, command-line reporting, and MSBuild tasks for continuous integration. Integrations include SQL Server Management Studio, Visual Studio, Azure DevOps, Team Foundation Server, MSBuild, and SonarQube. This gives SQL Server teams several ways to bring SQL quality checks into existing development and CI processes.

The main trade-off is scope. SQL Enlight is designed for T-SQL and SQL Server, so teams working across several SQL dialects should look for a broader formatter or analysis product. It is also Windows-based and follows a paid model, although a 14-day free trial is available. SQL Server teams that need autofix, refactoring, custom rules, and automation should consider it; teams needing cross-platform access or multi-dialect coverage should choose an alternative.

SQL Enlight pros and cons

  • Where it wins
    • Combines T-SQL analysis, formatting, autofix, and refactoring
    • Supports custom XPath/XSLT rules and configurable analysis
    • Connects IDEs, command-line workflows, CI, and automation APIs
  • Where it doesn't
    • Runs on Windows only
    • Focused on T-SQL rather than multiple SQL dialects
    • Paid product, with a 14-day free trial

SQL Enlight fact sheet, pricing and score →

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