Adminer as a Linux alternative to HeidiSQL
Updated
Our verdict
Adminer is a valid replacement for HeidiSQL if you are comfortable using a web browser as your database interface. It covers the core needs: connecting to MySQL, MariaDB, PostgreSQL, and SQLite, plus query editing and data export. However, it lacks native desktop integration and direct SQL Server support, which HeidiSQL has. Choose Adminer if you prefer a lightweight, single-file solution that runs anywhere PHP does. Stick with HeidiSQL (via Wine or Linux port) if you need native desktop behavior, SQL Server access, or a traditional GUI feel without browser overhead.
- License
- GPL-3.0
- Price
- Free
- Latest version
- 6.1.2
- Rating
- —
What works the same
- Supports MySQL, MariaDB, PostgreSQL, and SQLite
- Provides a query editor for writing and running SQL
- Allows data import and export to common formats like CSV and SQL
- Manages multiple database connections and sessions
- Free and open-source software
What is different
- Adminer is a web application, not a native desktop GUI
- HeidiSQL natively supports SQL Server; Adminer does not
- Adminer requires a PHP server environment to run
- HeidiSQL offers a traditional windowed interface; Adminer uses a responsive web UI
- Adminer is a single PHP file, simplifying deployment but limiting desktop integration
Opening your HeidiSQL files
Adminer does not use HeidiSQL's native connection file format. You will need to manually re-enter connection details (host, user, password, database) into Adminer's interface. Query files saved as .sql in HeidiSQL can be imported directly into Adminer, as both use standard SQL syntax. There is no direct conversion tool for HeidiSQL's configuration files.
Switching from HeidiSQL to Adminer, step by step
- Install a PHP server and web server (e.g., Apache or Nginx) on your Linux system.
- Download the Adminer PHP file and place it in your web root directory.
- Open your web browser and navigate to the Adminer URL.
- Enter your database connection details (host, username, password) in the login form.
- Recreate any saved connections or bookmarks manually in Adminer's interface.
- Test query execution and data export to ensure functionality meets your needs.
Key features of Adminer
- Single PHP file, no installation required
- Supports MySQL, MariaDB, PostgreSQL, SQLite, Oracle, and more
- Built‑in import/export for SQL, CSV, XML, JSON
- User‑defined shortcuts and themes
- Session management and password protection
- Extensible via plugins
- Responsive UI for mobile browsers
How to install Adminer on Linux
sudo apt install adminersudo apt install adminersudo zypper install adminerFrequently asked questions
Does Adminer support SQL Server?
No, Adminer does not natively support Microsoft SQL Server. If SQL Server access is critical, HeidiSQL remains a better choice, or consider other tools like DBeaver.
Can I use Adminer without installing a web server?
Technically, you can run a simple PHP built-in server for local development, but for stable, secure access, a proper web server like Apache or Nginx is recommended.
Is Adminer suitable for production database management?
Yes, it is used in production environments. However, ensure your web server is properly secured, as Adminer provides a powerful interface to your databases.
3 other alternatives to HeidiSQL
DBeaver CommunityDBeaver Community is a free, open‑source universal database IDE for Linux that supports MySQL, PostgreSQL…Open sourceFreeFlatpakDBeaver Community vs HeidiSQLMySQL WorkbenchMySQL Workbench is Oracle's official GUI for managing MySQL and MariaDB, offering visual ER modeling and SQL…Open sourceFreeMySQL Workbench vs HeidiSQL
Beekeeper StudioA cross‑platform SQL editor that replaces HeidiSQL on Linux with a modern UI and advanced features.Open sourceFreeFlatpakBeekeeper Studio vs HeidiSQL