tbls review
Open-source database documentation with diagrams, schema checks, and many export formats.
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
tbls is an open-source command-line tool for documenting databases, written in Go. It connects to supported databases through DSNs and is aimed at developers and teams that keep database documentation in repositories and CI workflows. The tool generates GitHub Flavored Markdown, creates entity-relationship diagrams, and supports Windows, macOS, and Linux. Its self-hosted model also fits teams that want documentation generation to run within their own development and delivery environments.
Its strongest area is output and documentation depth. tbls can produce schemas in Markdown, DOT, PlantUML, Mermaid, SVG, PNG, JPG, JSON, YAML, and Excel formats, giving teams options for repository documentation, diagrams, structured exports, and spreadsheet-based reference material. It also supports table and column comments, labels, relations, and dictionary customization. Schema comparison can check a database against generated documentation or another database, while configurable linting rules and documentation coverage measurements help teams identify schema issues and incomplete descriptions.
The workflow is particularly suited to automation: tbls runs in CI workflows and is available as a Docker image, alongside source code, binaries, package managers, and Go installation. That makes it a practical choice for open-source teams that want repeatable documentation generation and checks around database changes. It is less suitable for organizations looking for a managed, graphical documentation service, paid-tier features, or AI-assisted workflows. Choose tbls when repository-based documentation, multiple export formats, schema quality checks, and self-hosted control matter most; choose an alternative when a visual workspace or managed commercial platform is the priority.
tbls pros and cons
- Where it wins
- Exports schemas to Markdown, diagrams, images, JSON, YAML, and Excel
- Adds ER diagrams, schema comparison, configurable linting, and coverage metrics
- Runs on Windows, macOS, Linux, CI workflows, and Docker
- Where it doesn't
- Command-line operation may not suit teams seeking a graphical workspace
- Self-hosted deployment places setup and maintenance with the team
- No AI features or paid tiers for expanded commercial functionality
tbls fact sheet, pricing and score →
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