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dblab vs MySQL Shell: catalog facts
dblab	MySQL Shell
Free Free and open source.	Free Free download from the MySQL Community downloads.
Command line	Windows, macOS, Linux, Command line
Works entirely in the terminal Supports several major SQL databases	Three modes: SQL, JavaScript and Python Handles queries and server administration in one tool
Text interface is less discoverable than a graphical client Maintained by a small team	Command line only, with no graphical interface Only for MySQL servers
Downloadable app	Downloadable app
Open source	Open source
License not stated	License: GPL-2.0
No account needed	No account needed
Works offline	Not stated if it works offline
Official website Full listing and sources Checked September 24, 2026	Official website Full listing and sources Checked October 1, 2026

Catalog facts only. Anything “not stated” is unconfirmed. Check full listings for details.