Why We Built an Open-Source, Native macOS Database Client in Swift (And Skipped Electron)

Description and use

BerryDB Desktop is a native macOS database client built with Swift and AppKit that uses ~45 MB RAM, starts in under 200 ms, and maintains 120 FPS scrolling for large tables, outperforming Electron clients while remaining fully open‑source and unrestricted.

Problem

Mac developers face high memory usage and sluggish performance when using Electron‑based database GUIs, while native clients are often costly or limited.

Outcome

BerryDB delivers a native macOS database client that uses ~45 MB RAM, boots in <200 ms, and scrolls at 120 FPS, outperforming Electron alternatives while remaining fully open‑source.

Workflow

• 1. Install via Homebrew or DMG
• 2. Launch the app
• 3. Connect to any supported database (PostgreSQL, MySQL, SQLite, MSSQL, Redis, MongoDB, etc.)
• 4. Execute queries and view results in a unified tabbed workspace

Evidence

BerryDB Desktop uses ~45 MB RAM, cold‑boot <200 ms, and maintains 120 FPS scrolling on ProMotion displays

Source

By using pure Swift and Apple's native AppKit, BerryDB boots instantaneously and requires zero web runtimes.

Source

Autocompletion and query explanation run 100% on-device. Zero telemetry, zero cloud data transfer.

Source