KEXI

KEXI is a visual database application builder for organizing and editing data, as well as creating forms and reports. It provides visual table and query designers, an SQL editor, interactive forms, and a report designer. SQLite is its default database, and it also directly supports MySQL, MariaDB, and PostgreSQL. An assistant imports Microsoft Access data, while other tools move data between KEXI files and MySQL or PostgreSQL. Users can import CSV files or clipboard data with configurable delimiters, headers, and data types, then export results as CSV, clipboard data, PDF, or web pages. Locked-Down User Mode disables design features for users without special permissions, helping protect database structures and reports from changes. KEXI is free and open source under LGPL version 2. Its maker says it needs no registration or internet connection and does not access, collect, use, share, or transmit user data. The download page identifies version 3.2.0, released April 9, 2019, and provides GPG signatures for checking download integrity.

KEXI offers database design, data editing, and several import and export options without requiring registration or internet access. The listed release is version 3.2.0 from 2019, so readers should note that release information.

KEXI suits people who need to build database applications, edit data, or create forms and reports using supported database systems. It may also fit teams that need a restricted mode for users who should not change database designs.

Overview

KEXI is a visual database application builder for organizing and editing data, then shaping it into forms and reports. It suits people who want a desktop tool for building database projects without relying on an internet connection. Its range of design and import tools is useful, though the listed release is several years old.

Key features

KEXI combines visual designers for tables and queries with an SQL editor, interactive forms, and a report designer. That mix serves both users who prefer point-and-click design and those who want to write SQL; Locked-Down User Mode can disable design features for users without special permissions, helping protect database structures and reports from unwanted changes.

SQLite is the default, with direct support for MySQL, MariaDB, and PostgreSQL. An import assistant brings in Microsoft Access data, and migration tools move data between KEXI files and MySQL or PostgreSQL. CSV and clipboard import supports configurable delimiters, headers, and data types, while exports include CSV, clipboard, PDF, and web pages. These options make KEXI adaptable to varied data workflows, though its documented migration paths are specific rather than universal.

The project says KEXI needs no registration or internet connection and does not access, collect, use, share, or transmit personal information or user data. It is contributor-owned open-source software under LGPL version 2, and projects made with it remain the user's property. GPG signatures are provided for download integrity checks. Support routes include documentation, FAQs, tutorials, community discussions, and Bugzilla; the project asks users not to email developers directly.

Pricing

KEXI is free and open source under LGPL version 2, with no paid plan stated. There is no free trial because the software is free to use. That makes it a straightforward fit for individuals and teams seeking a no-cost desktop database builder, without a paid tier to unlock.

Platforms

KEXI is desktop software for Android, Linux, macOS, and Windows. The stated minimum requirements are Windows 8.1 or higher or Linux, a 64-bit processor, and 1 GB of RAM; no separate minimum requirements are given for macOS or Android.

Who it's for

KEXI is best suited to users who need local database design, editing, forms, reports, and practical routes to import or export data. Its offline operation and privacy position will appeal to people who prefer not to depend on online services. The version identified by the project is 3.2.0, released April 9, 2019, so readers who need a recently released product should look elsewhere.

Pros and cons

• Pros: Visual and SQL-based design tools cover tables, queries, forms, and reports, accommodating different ways of working.
• Pros: Support for four database systems, Access import, and configurable CSV import give users several ways to bring data in or move it onward.
• Pros: Free, open-source licensing and offline use avoid subscription costs and a required online account.
• Cons: The identified 2019 release is old, which may make KEXI a poor fit for users prioritizing a current release.
• Cons: The listed minimum requirements cover Windows and Linux, but not macOS or Android, leaving buyers on those platforms without a stated baseline.
• Cons: Support is routed through project resources and Bugzilla, with direct email to developers discouraged.

Alternatives

For a directory of database tools, browse Database Client Software; for tools emphasizing visual database building, see No-Code Database Software.

Choose SQLPro Studio if you want a database client with a free trial or a student license that requires an educational institution email and approval. Outerbase Studio is another free, open-source choice, with a broader platform range including web, self-hosted, and mobile options.

TablePlus may suit users seeking a freemium database tool with a free trial and a one-time Team license. For a database engine with a free Community Edition, consider MySQL. Beekeeper Studio offers a free Community plan with unlimited connections and no tab limits.

DBeaver is a free, open-source alternative with a Community edition. For PostgreSQL-focused tooling, dbForge Studio for PostgreSQL offers an Express plan with a visual data editor, import and export, and query history. DbGate is another freemium option.

Verdict

Choose KEXI if you want a free, offline desktop builder that combines visual database design with SQL, forms, reports, and useful data-transfer tools. Its strongest case is breadth without a subscription or required account. Look elsewhere if a recent release is important, or if you need support by direct email to developers.