phpMyAdmin or Adminer? What if you have PostgreSQL? 🐘 A simple guide to choosing a database tool

Congratulations! You just set up your web server (LAMP, LEMP, or something else) and are ready to build awesome websites. You have an operating system, a web server, a programming language, but one important puzzle piece remains — the database. Managing it without a convenient tool is like fixing a car without a wrench. 😅

If you use MySQL or MariaDB, you’ve probably heard of phpMyAdmin and Adminer. If you chose PostgreSQL, you also have great options! Let’s figure out which tool to choose so working with your database is easy and pleasant.

Why do you need a database management tool?

Imagine managing a database by typing commands in the console. It’s like writing a book on a typewriter — you can do it, but why? 😄

GUI tools are made to:

• Show everything visually: tables, data, and relationships — everything at a glance.
• Simplify work: create tables, add records, or change structure in a few clicks.
• Make backups: save and restore data without a headache.

Now let’s compare the two main players for MySQL/MariaDB — phpMyAdmin and Adminer — and then see what to do if you have PostgreSQL.

phpMyAdmin: The old reliable friend of MySQL

phpMyAdmin (or just PMA) is probably the most well-known web tool for MySQL and MariaDB. It’s used everywhere, especially on hosting providers.

Pros of phpMyAdmin 😊

• Popularity: Huge community — any question is easy to Google.
• Lots of features: Manage users, configure privileges, perform complex operations.
• Preinstalled: On most hostings it’s already available, no configuration needed.

Cons of phpMyAdmin 😕

• Heavyweight: Can be slow on weak servers or with large tables.
• Complex installation: If you install it yourself, be ready to deal with many files.
• Security: Its popularity makes it a frequent target, so protection is necessary.
• Only MySQL/MariaDB: Not suitable for other databases.

Adminer: Lightweight and speedy newcomer

Adminer is a compact alternative to phpMyAdmin that impresses with its simplicity and speed.

Cool feature: just one file!

Adminer is a single PHP file (under 500 KB) that you simply upload to the server. No fuss with installation!

Pros of Adminer 😊

• Speed: Works fast even on weak servers.
• Simplicity: One file — upload and you’re ready!
• Versatility: Supports not only MySQL/MariaDB, but also PostgreSQL, SQLite, MS SQL, and others.
• Security: Fewer files = fewer opportunities for attackers.

Cons of Adminer 😕

• Simple interface: May feel unfamiliar to beginners, fewer features.
• Fewer export formats: Usually only SQL, CSV, TSV.
• Smaller community: Finding help is harder than with phpMyAdmin.

What if you have PostgreSQL? 🐘

PostgreSQL (or just PgSQL) is a powerful database chosen for complex and reliable projects. It differs from MySQL, so it needs its own tools. The good news: Adminer works with PostgreSQL, but there are other great options too!

1. pgAdmin: The main tool for PostgreSQL

pgAdmin is the official tool for PostgreSQL, favored by professionals.

• What is it? A web interface (installed on the server) or a desktop application.
• Pros: Powerful, with lots of features — from server management to visual query building.
• Cons: Can be heavy and requires configuration.
• Who is it for? Those who work seriously with PostgreSQL and want full control.

2. Adminer: Quick web access

As mentioned, Adminer is a universal tool that supports PostgreSQL.

• What is it? The same lightweight one-file web interface.
• Pros: Fast, simple, convenient for viewing and editing data.
• Who is it for? Those who want easy browser access to the database.

3. DBeaver: The universal helper

DBeaver is not a web tool but a desktop application, yet it’s so good it must be mentioned.

• What is it? A program for Windows, macOS, or Linux.
• Pros: Works with virtually any database (MySQL, PostgreSQL, Oracle, etc.), has a convenient interface and a powerful SQL editor.
• Cons: Needs to be installed on your computer, not on the server.
• Who is it for? Those who work with multiple databases and want everything in one place.

Which tool to choose? Summary

Choice depends on your database and tasks.

What to choose as a beginner?

• Shared hosting: you most likely already have phpMyAdmin — start with it.
• Your own server (VPS/VDS): try Adminer — it’s lightweight and fast.
• PostgreSQL: start with Adminer for simplicity or pgAdmin for advanced work.
• Want everything in one place: DBeaver is your choice.

Finally

Database tools are like a magic wand: they save time and nerves. 😄
Start with something simple and move to more powerful tools as you gain confidence.

Good luck creating awesome websites and applications! 🚀