Short answer: PL/SQL Developer by Allround Automations runs on Windows only. If you work on a Mac or a Linux workstation, SQLlightspeed is a native Oracle IDE for macOS, Linux and Windows, with a PL/SQL debugger, compiler warnings and DBMS_OUTPUT — and no Oracle Client or Java runtime to install.
Why people look for a PL/SQL Developer alternative
- They moved to a Mac or Linux. According to its vendor, PL/SQL Developer runs on Windows (Vista through Windows 11). On a Mac or Linux workstation that means a virtual machine or a remote desktop just to work on PL/SQL.
- They want to skip the Oracle Client setup. PL/SQL Developer needs an Oracle Client whose bitness matches the application (32-bit with 32-bit, 64-bit with 64-bit). SQLlightspeed connects to Oracle directly.
- They work on very large schemas. SQLlightspeed keeps a local object index, so browsing and search stay instant on schemas with 200,000+ objects.
Side by side
| SQLlightspeed | PL/SQL Developer | |
|---|---|---|
| Runs on macOS | ✓ | ✕ |
| Runs on Linux | ✓ | ✕ |
| Runs on Windows | ✓ | ✓ |
| Oracle Client needed | no | yes, matching 32/64-bit |
PL/SQL Developer details from Allround Automations’ system requirements, as of 12 October 2026. Spot something out of date? Tell us at info@dbo.com.tr.
What you get for PL/SQL work in SQLlightspeed
- PL/SQL debugger — step through packages, procedures and functions; optionally compile with debug information so the debugger never has to recompile.
- Compile with compiler warnings and your choice of PL/SQL optimisation level, from the object tree or the editor.
- “Where used” powered by PL/Scope, so you can see who calls what before you change it.
- DBMS_OUTPUT panel that collects
put_lineoutput from every run. - Explain plan and SQL formatting right in the worksheet.
- Creation wizards for 16 object types, including packages, procedures, functions, types and triggers.
- tnsnames.ora support (TNS_ADMIN or a path you choose) as well as plain host/port/service connections.
- One Oracle session per worksheet, so a long-running block never freezes another worksheet or the UI.
- Production safety: a red banner on production connections, confirmation before destructive statements, and passwords kept only in the operating system’s credential store.
When PL/SQL Developer is still the right choice
PL/SQL Developer is a long-established tool focused on PL/SQL development. If your whole team works on Windows, already has an Oracle Client in place and is happy with its workflow, there may be no reason to switch. SQLlightspeed is for the people that setup leaves out — Mac and Linux users — and for anyone who wants one native tool on every platform.
Questions
Does PL/SQL Developer run on Mac?
No. Allround Automations lists Windows (Vista through Windows 11) as the supported operating systems for PL/SQL Developer. On a Mac you would need a Windows virtual machine or a remote desktop. SQLlightspeed runs natively on macOS, Linux and Windows.
Does SQLlightspeed need an Oracle Client or Instant Client?
No. SQLlightspeed connects to Oracle directly; there is no Oracle Client, Instant Client or Java runtime to install. It can still read your tnsnames.ora if you use one.
Can I debug PL/SQL in SQLlightspeed?
Yes. SQLlightspeed includes a PL/SQL debugger for packages, procedures and functions, and can compile units with debug information so the debugger does not need to recompile them.
How do I try SQLlightspeed?
Every installation starts with a 30-day free trial with all features. Write to info@dbo.com.tr to start your trial. After the trial a license is $20 per month or $200 per year.
Other comparisons: Toad · SQL Developer · DataGrip
PL/SQL Developer is a trademark of Allround Automations. Oracle is a registered trademark of Oracle Corporation. Mentioned for comparison purposes only — SQLlightspeed is not affiliated with or endorsed by these companies.