Although database software can be helpful a good database program, such as Microsoft Access, can be expensive. But there are open source alternatives to a pricey database. In this article, I'll provide a brief overview of some of the best free database software tools for Macs.
UPDATED JUNE 2017: Prices updated and a 6th app added…
Question: Q: is there a version of Microsoft Access for the Mac computer I was wondering if there was a version of Microsoft Access for the Mac computer. Most of the databases I have on my old computer are in Access and I need to be able to open them on my new Mac Book. Feb 09, 2019 'Access' Database For Mac I know Microsoft do not have a MS Office 'Access' database program that will run on a Mac. I also know there are NON Microsoft alternatives. But can anybody tell me why this is? Additional Comment: Very frustrating to find a major component of a software suite that will not run on a Mac. Yes, this is pointed out on the. Alternatives to Microsoft Office Access for Mac with any license LibreOffice - Base Base is a full-featured desktop database front end, designed to meet the needs of a broad array of users, for all kinds of usages, such as keeping track of collections.
Yes you read that correctly! Up until recently, there was no way to open a Microsoft Access database directly on a Mac. However, there are, at the time of writing, five apps, all available from the Mac App Store, which allow you to open and view data in Access database tables. Below is a summary of the apps.
MDB Tool
Free Access Database For Mac
- Opens MDB and ACCDB files (2007 only, not 2010/2013)
- Only provides access to tables. Does not support queries, forms or reports
- Exports to CSV and SQL formats
- Available for £5.99 from https://itunes.apple.com/gb/app/mdb-tool-for-microsoft-access/id513995545?mt=12
MDB Explorer
- Opens tables from multiple databases at same time
- Exports to various formats including CSV, TXT, Excel and SQL
- Filter, sort and search functionality allows you to easily find the information you need
- Supports MDB but ACCDB support is available via in-app purchase £9.99
- Available for £9.99 from https://itunes.apple.com/gb/app/mdb-explorer/id506622388?mt=12
MDB ACCDB Viewer
- Opens MDB and ACCDB files
- Search functionality
- If you double click a record it opens in a separate window – great for reading long text entries
- Exports to various formats including Excel, CSV, SQL
- Documentation includes instructions for transferring to Bento, Numbers, Open Office
- Available for £18.99 from https://itunes.apple.com/gb/app/mdb-accdb-viewer/id417392270?mt=12
MDBLite
![Access Access](/uploads/1/3/4/3/134317347/900232806.jpg)
![Access Access](/uploads/1/3/4/3/134317347/300516646.png)
- Converts MDB to SQLite
- SQLite is a small database engine found in many gadgets and small websites
- Just drag and drop the MDB file onto the app’s window
- Supports MDB format only
- Available for £3.99 from https://itunes.apple.com/gb/app/mdblite/id487704620?mt=12
ACCDB Explorer
Access Database For Mac Free Download
- From the same company that makes MDB Explorer
- Similar functionality to MDB Explorer but supports ACCDB as well as MDB
- Reads attachments from 2007 format databases
- Reads calculated fields from Access 2010 format databases
- £19.99 from https://itunes.apple.com/gb/app/accdb-explorer/id577722815?mt=12
Access Database Viewer
- I have added this one following an email I received from the developer (Disclaimer: I am NOT making any money from this!)
- At this time the app supports to open, view and export accdb and mdb files.
- The developer will improve the app on user request in the next weeks/li>
- £2.99 from https://itunes.apple.com/gb/app/access-database-viewer/id1241742780?mt=12