Best Plugins and Extensions for SQL Management Studio

Microsoft SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS) is a powerful tool for managing SQL Server databases, but even the best tools can benefit from a little extra functionality. That’s where plugins and extensions come in. By enhancing SSMS with the right add-ons, you can streamline your workflow, improve productivity, and unlock features that make database management easier and more efficient.

In this blog post, we’ll explore the best plugins and extensions for SQL Management Studio that can help you take your database management skills to the next level. Whether you’re a database administrator, developer, or data analyst, these tools are designed to save you time and effort.

1. SSMSBoost

SSMSBoost is one of the most popular extensions for SQL Server Management Studio, and for good reason. It offers a wide range of features that enhance productivity and improve the overall user experience.

Key Features:

Session Restore: Automatically restores your open tabs and queries after restarting SSMS.
Query Execution History: Keeps track of all executed queries for easy reference.
Code Snippets: Save and reuse frequently used SQL code snippets.
Advanced Search: Quickly search through your database objects and scripts.

SSMSBoost is available in both free and paid versions, with the premium version offering additional advanced features.

2. SQL Complete by Devart

SQL Complete is a powerful IntelliSense-style extension that enhances the coding experience in SSMS. It’s perfect for developers who want to write SQL code faster and with fewer errors.

Key Features:

Intelligent Code Completion: Auto-suggests table names, columns, and functions as you type.
Code Formatting: Automatically formats your SQL code to improve readability.
Code Snippets: Create and use custom snippets for repetitive tasks.
Execution History: View and manage previously executed queries.

SQL Complete is a paid extension, but it offers a free trial so you can test its features before committing.

3. Redgate SQL Search

If you’ve ever struggled to find a specific object or piece of code in a large database, Redgate SQL Search is the tool for you. This free extension makes it easy to locate objects, tables, and stored procedures in your database.

Key Features:

Fast Object Search: Quickly find tables, views, columns, and more.
Code Search: Search for specific text within stored procedures, functions, and scripts.
Integration with SSMS: Seamlessly integrates into the SSMS interface.

Redgate SQL Search is completely free, making it a must-have for any SQL professional.

4. ApexSQL Refactor

ApexSQL Refactor is a free extension that focuses on improving the readability and maintainability of your SQL code. It’s an excellent tool for developers who want to ensure their code is clean and consistent.

Key Features:

SQL Code Formatting: Automatically format your SQL code according to predefined or custom rules.
Object Renaming: Safely rename database objects without breaking dependencies.
Code Refactoring: Simplify complex queries and improve performance.

ApexSQL Refactor is part of the ApexSQL suite, which includes other useful tools for database management.

5. dbForge SQL Tools

The dbForge SQL Tools suite by Devart includes a collection of extensions that enhance SSMS functionality. While the full suite is a paid product, individual tools can be purchased separately.

Key Features:

SQL Formatter: Automatically format your SQL code.
Data Generator: Generate test data for your database.
Schema Compare: Compare and synchronize database schemas.
Data Compare: Compare and synchronize data between databases.

The dbForge SQL Tools suite is ideal for teams that need a comprehensive set of tools for database development and management.

6. Poor Man’s T-SQL Formatter

If you’re looking for a free and lightweight SQL code formatter, Poor Man’s T-SQL Formatter is a great option. It’s a simple yet effective tool for improving the readability of your SQL scripts.

Key Features:

Code Formatting: Automatically format messy SQL code.
SSMS Integration: Easily access the formatter from within SSMS.
Customizable Rules: Adjust formatting rules to suit your preferences.

This extension is perfect for developers who want a no-frills solution for formatting SQL code.

7. SQL Query Stress

SQL Query Stress is a free tool that helps you test the performance of your queries under load. It’s especially useful for database administrators who need to identify performance bottlenecks.

Key Features:

Load Testing: Simulate multiple users executing queries simultaneously.
Customizable Parameters: Adjust the number of threads and iterations for testing.
Integration with SSMS: Launch SQL Query Stress directly from SSMS.

While it’s not technically an SSMS extension, SQL Query Stress is a valuable tool for performance testing.

8. SSMS Tools Pack

SSMS Tools Pack is a feature-rich extension that adds a variety of productivity-enhancing tools to SSMS. It’s designed to make your day-to-day tasks faster and more efficient.

Key Features:

Query Execution History: Keep track of all executed queries.
Tab Management: Organize and manage your open tabs.
Data Scripting: Generate insert scripts for your data.
Customizable Shortcuts: Create shortcuts for frequently used commands.

SSMS Tools Pack is a paid extension, but it offers a free trial so you can explore its features.

Conclusion

SQL Server Management Studio is already a robust tool, but these plugins and extensions can take it to the next level. Whether you need advanced code completion, better search functionality, or tools for performance testing, there’s an extension out there to meet your needs.

By incorporating these plugins into your workflow, you can save time, reduce errors, and improve the overall efficiency of your database management tasks. Start exploring these tools today and see how they can transform your experience with SSMS!

Which plugin or extension is your favorite? Let us know in the comments below! And don’t forget to share this post with your fellow SQL enthusiasts.

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12/30/2025