Top 5 Microsoft Access Alternatives

The latest edition of Microsoft Office, Office 2010, does not include Microsoft Access in the home version. Instead, to get Access, you must pay approximately $495. This is rather pricey for most database creators. Luckily, there are both lower cost and even free Microsoft Access alternatives, several of which do not require you to download or purchase an entire suite of software.

Kexi - Free

Kexi is a free Access alternative and reminds users of the Access 2003 and earlier interface. When you first open Kexi, you can create a new database from scratch or start with a template. It allows you to create tables, queries, forms, reports and scripts. All details about your database components can be accessed on the left of your screen at any time, making database management easier.

Another huge benefit of Kexi is the fact it's compatible with Linux, Windows and Mac. Though you may notice some features missing that you're used to with Access, creating a database with Kexi means you save money and create powerful databases that other users can easily open and use without paying money for extra software.

Grubba - Free

Unlike most other Access alternatives, Grubba is completely web-based, meaning no software to download. With Grubba, you create and manage your database online. Free backups and an SSL connection, keeps your information safe and secure at all times. Updates are automatically implemented without any work on your end. You can import and export data. The biggest downside to Grubba is the limitation of only 5 forms. However, for small databases, this shouldn't be a problem. This is especially useful for development with multiple users.

Ability - ~$56

Ability is only available as a suite of software, but offers the closest resemblance to Microsoft Office products, including Microsoft Access. Ability includes Write, Spreadsheet, Database, Presentation, Photopaint, Photoalbum, Draw and Save as PDF for approximately $56 for two licences. Please note that when you purchase, all prices are listed in pounds. Microsoft Office file formats are compatible with Ability, including .mdb for Access 2003 and earlier databases. Ability Database allows you to create tables, queries, forms and reports with ease. This is a great, cheap alternative, especially if you want an entire Office suite.

FileMaker Pro - $299

This is the most expensive alternative on the list. FileMaker Pro makes you wonder why you ever though you needed Microsoft Access to begin with. Instead of focusing on a suite of products, FileMaker Pro puts all its efforts into database development. You can even drag and drop data straight from a spreadsheet application, such as Excel. With many users angered at the inability to easily publish Access 2007 and 2010 databases to the Internet, the ability to publish data to the web with just a few clicks is a major FileMaker Pro benefit. Though the price is fairly high, if you want to develop extremely powerful databases, with more features than Microsoft Access offers, the cost is worth it.

OpenOffice.org - Free

Many people have heard of and even use Openoffice.org in place of Microsoft Office. The features of OpenOffice Base are fairly simple when compared to Microsoft Access, but the entire suite is free. For users who just want to create small, simple databases for home use, Base is a great alternative. If you want to create scripts and macros, Base isn't the best alternative available.

Choosing

Before rushing out and buying a Microsoft Access alternative, be aware that most paid alternatives offer a 30 day free trial so you know exactly what the software has to offer. Compare the features of each product and choose which works best for you. Compatibility with operating systems and other applications is extremely important, along with which components the software is able to create.