FlexTable: a free, native Navicat alternative
FlexTable is a free, native database client for SQL and NoSQL. Navicat is capable and covers MongoDB and Redis with real editors, but it is expensive, and its licensing is split across editions, platforms, and per-database products. FlexTable gives you MongoDB and Redis in one native app, free during beta.
Navicat is a mature product with deep administration and data-modeling features. This page is honest about where it wins.
Navicat vs FlexTable at a glance
| Navicat | FlexTable | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Expensive; Enterprise perpetual around $1,299, plus per-edition and per-database licensing | Free (full app during beta) |
| Licensing | Split across Premium, per-database editions, platforms, and languages | One app, all supported databases |
| NoSQL (MongoDB, Redis) | Real editors, in Premium or standalone editions | MongoDB and Redis editors, included and free |
| Architecture | Native (per vendor) | Native (~14 MB download) |
| SQL databases | MySQL, PostgreSQL, SQL Server, Oracle, SQLite, MariaDB, and more | PostgreSQL, MySQL, MariaDB, SQLite, SQL Server |
Navicat figures from navicat.com, checked 2026-08-18. Some Navicat prices vary by edition and region. Navicat covers more databases; FlexTable's edge is price and a single, simple app.
Where FlexTable wins
The same NoSQL, without the price tag
Navicat does give MongoDB and Redis real editors. The catch is cost: an Enterprise perpetual license lists around $1,299, and features are split across editions and separate per-database products. FlexTable gives you MongoDB, with a shell-style editor, and Redis in one app, free during beta.
One license, one app
Navicat splits functionality across Premium, standalone per-database editions, platforms, and language versions, so working out what to buy takes effort. FlexTable is one native app with every supported database, and nothing to configure per engine.
Native and light, credentials stay local
FlexTable is a native app, about a 14 MB download, that stores credentials locally and sends no analytics telemetry.
When Navicat is the better choice
Pick the right tool the first time. Choose Navicat if:
- You need Navicat’s data modeling, scheduling, or server administration features.
- You rely on databases FlexTable doesn’t cover yet, like Oracle.
- Your team already standardizes on Navicat.
What you get in both
Both are native apps with editors for SQL and NoSQL, a data grid, and import and export. FlexTable adds auto ER diagrams, query-plan visualization, charts from query results, and a Redis workspace with Pub/Sub, in a ~14 MB download that is free during beta.
Frequently asked questions
Is FlexTable free?
Yes. FlexTable is free during its public beta, with core features unlocked. Early adopters can claim one of 500 lifetime PRO keys, no credit card required.
Is FlexTable cheaper than Navicat?
FlexTable is free during beta. Navicat is a paid product; an Enterprise perpetual license lists around $1,299, with additional per-edition and per-database licensing.
Does FlexTable support MongoDB and Redis like Navicat?
Yes. FlexTable has a shell-style MongoDB editor and a Redis workspace, included and free, without Navicat’s separate editions.
Is FlexTable built on Electron?
No. It is a native application, roughly a 14 MB download, built for instant startup and low RAM and CPU use.
Try FlexTable free
Download for macOS, Windows, or Linux. About 14 MB, installs in seconds, no account required.