DataGripLinux vs Microsoft Azure Data StudioWindows

DataGrip as a Linux alternative to Microsoft Azure Data Studio

Updated October 30, 2026

Our verdict

DataGrip is a strong, arguably superior, replacement for Microsoft Azure Data Studio for pure SQL development. It offers deeper schema-aware editing, refactoring, and multi-engine support via JDBC. However, it lacks the specific Azure cloud management features and extension ecosystem of Azure Data Studio. If your work is heavy on Azure-specific administration or requires the free, VS Code-based interface, stick with Azure Data Studio. If you prioritize powerful SQL editing, cross-database consistency, and professional-grade tooling, DataGrip is the better choice, provided you are willing to pay for a proprietary license.

Feature parity85%

License: LicenseRef-proprietary
Price: paid
Latest version: 2026.2.6 (September 29, 2026)
Rating: —

Install DataGrip Website ↗

What works the same

Both provide integrated SQL editors with syntax highlighting and autocomplete.
Both support connecting to multiple database engines including SQL Server and PostgreSQL.
Both allow executing queries and viewing results in tabular formats.
Both include tools for managing database objects like tables and views.

What is different

DataGrip is proprietary and paid, while Azure Data Studio is free and open-source based.
Azure Data Studio has deep integration with Azure cloud services and extensions, which DataGrip lacks.
DataGrip offers more advanced refactoring, schema diffing, and visual diagram tools than Azure Data Studio.
Azure Data Studio uses a VS Code-like interface, while DataGrip uses the JetBrains IDE interface.

Opening your Microsoft Azure Data Studio files

DataGrip does not natively open Azure Data Studio workspace files (.code-workspace) or its specific configuration formats. However, since both tools primarily work with standard SQL files (.sql), you can open existing SQL scripts directly in DataGrip. Connection strings and server configurations will need to be manually recreated in DataGrip’s data source settings, as there is no direct import mechanism for Azure Data Studio’s connection profiles.

Switching from Microsoft Azure Data Studio to DataGrip, step by step

Install DataGrip via your package manager or Flathub.
Create new data source connections in DataGrip for your SQL Server and Azure SQL instances.
Import your existing .sql script files into a new DataGrip project.
Reconfigure any automation scripts to use DataGrip’s command-line interface if needed.
Test query execution and result viewing to ensure compatibility with your workflow.

Key features of DataGrip

Connect to any database with a JDBC driver, including PostgreSQL, Oracle, MySQL, and Snowflake
Smart SQL editor with schema-aware completion, error highlighting, and refactoring tools
Multiple independent query consoles for running, explaining, and profiling SQL
Excel-like data editor with inline editing, sorting, and export to CSV, JSON, or Excel
Visual schema diagrams and DDL generation for database objects
Data diff tools to compare tables or query results with visual differences
Git integration for version control of SQL scripts and database migrations
AI assistance for natural-language-to-SQL generation and query explanation

How to install DataGrip on Linux

Flatpak (Flathub)flatpak install flathub com.jetbrains.DataGrip

Frequently asked questions

Can DataGrip connect to Azure SQL specifically?

Yes, DataGrip connects to Azure SQL via the standard JDBC driver for SQL Server, treating it like any other SQL Server instance.

Is DataGrip free?

No, DataGrip is a proprietary JetBrains product that requires a paid license, unlike the free Azure Data Studio.

Does DataGrip support Azure extensions?

No, DataGrip does not support the VS Code extension marketplace. It relies on its built-in tools and JDBC drivers rather than cloud-specific extensions.