Question 1

What is LunoDB?

Accepted Answer

LunoDB is an AI-powered database client designed for developers. It provides a beautiful interface for connecting to and managing multiple databases including MySQL, PostgreSQL, SQLite, MariaDB, MongoDB, SQL Server, Redis, and more. With breakthrough AI features like natural language SQL generation, smart filtering, and an interactive chat assistant, plus advanced capabilities like SSH tunneling, Monaco editor, CREATE TABLE functionality, and tabbed queries, LunoDB transforms your database workflow.

Question 2

How do I download and install LunoDB?

Accepted Answer

You can download LunoDB for free from our homepage. We support macOS, Windows, and Linux with cross-platform compatibility. The installation is straightforward - just download the installer for your platform and follow the simple setup process. No complicated configuration required!

Question 3

Does LunoDB update automatically?

Accepted Answer

Yes! LunoDB includes built-in automatic updates with varying levels of automation by platform. macOS and Windows get fully automatic updates that download and install seamlessly in the background. Linux AppImage also updates fully automatically without requiring passwords. Linux DEB packages are semi-automatic (download automatically, require password to install), while RPM packages notify you of new versions and direct you to GitHub for manual download. All versions show in-app release notes.

Question 4

Do I need any technical knowledge to use LunoDB?

Accepted Answer

LunoDB is designed to be intuitive for both beginners and experts. If you're new to databases, our clean interface and helpful tooltips will guide you. For experienced developers, you'll appreciate the advanced features like syntax highlighting, auto-completion, and powerful query tools.

Question 5

Can I try LunoDB before purchasing?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! LunoDB offers a free version that includes core functionality for up to 2 database connections. Plus, you can start a 14-day Pro trial with just your email - no credit card required. This gives you full access to unlimited connections, Query Log Panel, SQL history, and all other Pro features so you can truly experience the power of LunoDB before deciding to upgrade.

Question 6

What's the difference between Free and Pro versions?

Accepted Answer

The Free version includes AI features (with your API key), basic query editing, table browsing, CSV export, and supports up to 2 database connections. The Pro version ($10 one-time) unlocks unlimited connections, Query Log Panel for tracking every query with execution times and status, advanced Monaco editor with themes, SSH tunneling, SSL support, all export formats (CSV, JSON, SQL), unlimited query history with search, and priority support. AI features are available in both versions with your own API key. Try all Pro features free for 14 days with just your email - no credit card required!

Question 7

Which databases does LunoDB support?

Accepted Answer

LunoDB supports a wide range of databases: MySQL (5.7+, 8.0+), PostgreSQL (10+ through 15+), SQLite (local files), MariaDB (10.0+), MongoDB (document collections), SQL Server (2017+), Redis (in-memory key-value), and Turso (LibSQL edge databases). We're actively working on Oracle support for future releases.

Question 8

Can I connect to cloud databases?

Accepted Answer

Yes! LunoDB works with cloud database services like AWS RDS, Google Cloud SQL, Azure Database, DigitalOcean Managed Databases, and more. As long as you have the connection details (host, port, username, password), LunoDB can connect.

Question 9

Does LunoDB support SSH tunneling?

Accepted Answer

Yes, the Pro version includes full SSH tunneling support. This is essential for securely connecting to databases through bastion hosts or when your database isn't directly accessible from the internet. We support both SSH key and password authentication.

Question 10

What about SSL/TLS connections?

Accepted Answer

LunoDB Pro supports SSL/TLS encrypted connections to ensure your data transmission is secure. You can configure SSL modes, provide custom certificates, and ensure compliance with your organization's security requirements.

Question 11

Can I connect to databases running on Docker?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! LunoDB can connect to databases running in Docker containers. Just make sure the database port is exposed (e.g., -p 3306:3306 for MySQL) and use localhost with the mapped port as your connection details.

Question 12

How does LunoDB work with NoSQL databases like MongoDB?

Accepted Answer

LunoDB provides full MongoDB support with enhanced query handling, argument parsing, and data export functionality. You can work with MongoDB collections and documents, execute queries, and export data just like with traditional SQL databases. The interface adapts to show document structure and supports MongoDB-specific operations.

Question 13

How many databases can I connect to simultaneously?

Accepted Answer

The free version supports up to 2 active database connections. The Pro version offers unlimited connections, allowing you to manage multiple projects, environments (dev/staging/prod), and database types all within one interface.

Question 14

What AI features does LunoDB offer?

Accepted Answer

LunoDB includes five powerful AI features: AI SQL Builder (converts natural language questions into SQL queries), AI Filter Builder (creates complex table filters from plain English), AI Chat Assistant (provides interactive help with database questions and schema understanding), AI Data Insights (analyzes your table data and provides meaningful patterns and insights), and AI Query Optimizer (analyzes your SQL queries and suggests performance improvements). All features are context-aware and understand your database structure.

Question 15

How does the AI SQL Builder work?

Accepted Answer

Simply type what you want in plain English like 'show me all users who registered last month' and the AI SQL Builder will generate the appropriate SQL query. It automatically understands your database schema, table relationships, and column names, then creates valid SQL that you can execute or modify. Works with all supported database types including MySQL, PostgreSQL, SQLite, and MongoDB.

Question 16

Can I use voice dictation for SQL queries?

Accepted Answer

Yes! LunoDB desktop supports voice dictation powered by OpenAI's Whisper API. Simply click the voice input button in the query editor and speak your SQL query. It's perfect for hands-free database work, complex queries that are faster to speak than type, or when you need to keep your hands on other tools. Voice dictation works with natural language queries too - speak in plain English and let the AI convert it to SQL. (Note: Voice dictation is available on desktop only, not on mobile.)

Question 17

What is the AI Filter Builder?

Accepted Answer

The AI Filter Builder lets you create complex table filters by describing what you want in natural language. For example, say 'orders over $100 from premium customers' and it will automatically create the appropriate filter conditions. It supports AND/OR logic, multiple conditions, and doesn't require you to remember exact column names or filter syntax.

Question 18

How does the AI Chat Assistant help me?

Accepted Answer

The AI Chat Assistant is your personal database expert. Ask it about your schema, query optimization, SQL syntax, or troubleshooting. It's context-aware, meaning it knows your current database, table, and connection details. Your AI conversations are saved automatically and persist across sessions, so you can pick up exactly where you left off. All responses include syntax-highlighted code blocks for easy copying.

Question 19

Which AI providers does LunoDB support?

Accepted Answer

LunoDB supports 8 AI providers: OpenAI (GPT-5.5, GPT-5.3 Codex), Anthropic Claude (Claude Opus 4.7, Claude Sonnet 4.6 & 4.5), Google Gemini (Gemini 3.1 Pro, Gemini 3 Flash, Gemini 2.5 Pro), xAI Grok (Grok 4.3, Grok 4.20 Multi-Agent), DeepSeek (chat, coder, reasoner), OpenRouter (access hundreds of models), Ollama for local models, and Custom endpoints for any OpenAI-compatible API. Configure thinking depth and effort levels for supported models to balance speed vs. reasoning quality.

Question 20

Do I need an API key to use AI features?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you'll need an API key from your chosen AI provider (OpenAI, Anthropic, Google, xAI, or DeepSeek). Your API key is stored securely with encryption and never leaves your device. For Ollama, no API key is needed at all — run AI models completely offline and privately without any external accounts.

Question 21

Are AI features available in the free version?

Accepted Answer

AI features are available to all users, but require you to provide your own API key from OpenAI, Anthropic, Google, xAI, or use Ollama locally. There are no additional LunoDB fees for using AI features - you only pay for your AI provider's API usage.

Question 22

How accurate are the AI-generated queries?

Accepted Answer

The AI features are highly accurate because they understand your actual database schema and table relationships. However, as with any AI tool, it's important to review generated queries before executing them, especially for operations that modify data (INSERT, UPDATE, DELETE). LunoDB shows you the generated SQL so you can verify it before running.

Question 23

Can I use AI features offline with Ollama?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Ollama support lets you run AI models completely locally on your machine — your data never leaves your device. This is perfect for sensitive environments, air-gapped systems, or when you want full privacy. Ollama models now support extended thinking for deeper reasoning, optional web search for up-to-date context, and your model list syncs across all AI features and persists between sessions. Simply install Ollama, download your preferred model, and configure LunoDB to use your local Ollama endpoint.

Question 24

Is my data sent to AI providers?

Accepted Answer

LunoDB sends only your database schema (table names, column names, data types) and your natural language question to the AI provider — never your actual data. The AI uses this information to generate appropriate SQL queries. For maximum privacy, use Ollama — everything stays completely local on your machine with no external requests. Your API keys are always encrypted and stored only on your device.

Question 25

What makes LunoDB's query editor special?

Accepted Answer

LunoDB uses the Monaco Editor (same as VS Code) with SQL syntax highlighting, intelligent auto-completion, multi-cursor editing, code folding, and advanced search/replace. The Pro version includes additional themes and customizations to match your preferred coding environment.

Question 26

Can I export my data?

Accepted Answer

Yes! The free version supports CSV export. The Pro version adds JSON and SQL export formats with streaming capability for massive datasets, gzip compression to save space, and the ability to export query results or entire table data. You can minimize the export dialog to keep working while exports run in the background, see detailed progress tracking, and handle special characters correctly across all database types.

Question 27

How does query history work?

Accepted Answer

LunoDB automatically saves all your executed queries with comprehensive management features. You can clear all query history at once or remove individual queries with delete icons. The free version keeps 30 days of history, while Pro offers unlimited history with search functionality, query templates, and the ability to organize queries by project or connection.

Question 28

Does LunoDB support multiple tabs?

Accepted Answer

Yes! LunoDB features an advanced tabbed SQL interface that allows you to work with multiple queries, tables, or database connections simultaneously. Tabs persist across sessions with localStorage support, so you can pick up exactly where you left off including your cursor position and database selection. You can organize queries by project, switch between different databases, run multi-query SQL scripts, get warnings before losing unsaved changes, and view SQL history in a popup with syntax highlighting.

Question 29

Can I run multiple SQL statements at once?

Accepted Answer

Yes! LunoDB supports multi-statement query execution. You can write and execute multiple SQL statements in a single run, toggle visibility of individual query results, and see clear feedback for each statement's execution. Smart query extraction and validation ensures each statement runs correctly, and you can organize complex SQL scripts efficiently.

Question 30

How do I work with large text fields?

Accepted Answer

LunoDB includes an expandable text viewer for large text, JSON, or XML fields. Simply click the expand button to view long content without scrolling in a dedicated popup window. This makes it easy to review full content, formatted JSON, or lengthy text values without cluttering the table view.

Question 31

Can I edit data directly in the table view?

Accepted Answer

Yes, LunoDB supports powerful inline editing for table data. Click any cell to edit values directly with automatic data type validation. Before saving UPDATE operations, you can review a side-by-side before/after comparison showing exactly what changed - the old value next to the new value for every modified field. The interface supports editing complex data types like JSON objects and arrays, provides undo/redo functionality, and saves your unsaved changes even when switching between tables. You'll get warnings before losing unsaved changes.

Question 32

What visualization options are available?

Accepted Answer

LunoDB offers comprehensive visualization including detailed table structure views, interactive relationship diagrams showing foreign keys, and powerful data charting. Create graphs and charts from your query results with AI suggestions for the best chart type, or build custom visualizations using your own SQL queries. Choose from 5 chart types (line, bar, area, pie, scatter), customize colors, combine multiple queries in one chart, and export diagrams as high-quality images for documentation.

Question 33

Can I create databases and tables directly in LunoDB?

Accepted Answer

Yes! LunoDB lets you create new databases right from the connection dialog without external tools. Simply click to create a database, fetch existing databases with one click, and switch between them seamlessly. For tables, use the streamlined AddColumnForm for quick column creation, inline column editing in the structure view, visual table designer with proper data types, and manage constraints and indexes - all without writing SQL manually.

Question 34

Does LunoDB have a tutorial system for new users?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! LunoDB includes a comprehensive built-in tutorial system with expanded coverage for all supported databases. Get step-by-step guidance for key features, database connections, AI features walkthroughs, and best practices. The interactive tutorial is accessible from the main menu and helps you get productive quickly, whether you're new to databases or just new to LunoDB.

Question 35

Can I work with multiple databases side-by-side?

Accepted Answer

Yes! LunoDB supports multiple workspace windows, allowing you to open independent workspace windows for parallel workflows. Each workspace maintains its own tabs, queries, and state, perfect for working on development, staging, and production databases simultaneously. Workspaces remember their connections and open tabs, automatically restoring your last workspace on launch. Settings like themes and sounds sync instantly across all open windows, so changes apply everywhere automatically.

Question 36

Do settings sync across multiple windows?

Accepted Answer

Yes! LunoDB features cross-window synchronization for settings. When you change your theme, sound settings, or other preferences in one window, those changes apply instantly to all other open windows. This means you can work across multiple workspaces without having to manually update each one. Global settings like licenses are also shared across all windows.

Question 37

Can I customize sound effects?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! LunoDB includes customizable sound settings with individual controls for different events. You can enable or disable sounds for notifications, query execution, connections, and more. The expandable Settings panel gives you access to all sound options, including a new snackbar notification sound. Sound settings also sync across all open windows, so your preferences stay consistent everywhere.

Question 38

Can I stop a slow-running query?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! LunoDB lets you cancel long-running queries with one click without disconnecting from your database. You'll also get warnings before querying huge tables without LIMIT clauses, and can see real-time query execution progress for operations that take time to complete.

Question 39

Does LunoDB support backup and restore?

Accepted Answer

Yes! LunoDB includes comprehensive backup and restore functionality. You can back up entire databases with progress tracking, cancel long exports if needed, and export to compressed .sql.gz files to save space. Backups include your graphs, visualizations, and connection layouts. When restoring, you'll see detailed progress and all your settings, graphs, and layouts are restored together.

Question 40

How does SQL import work?

Accepted Answer

LunoDB offers powerful import capabilities including streaming imports for huge SQL files without running out of memory, direct import of compressed .sql.gz files with automatic decompression, drag-and-drop file uploads, detailed progress tracking with time estimates, and the ability to minimize the import dialog to keep working. Imports handle special characters, quotes, and escape sequences correctly across all database types. You can also cancel imports mid-process if needed.

Question 41

Can I copy and paste table data?

Accepted Answer

Yes! The Pro version includes copy & paste functionality with keyboard shortcuts (⌘C/Ctrl+C to copy, ⌘V/Ctrl+V to paste). You can duplicate rows, edit fields before inserting, and generate INSERT statements automatically. Copied data handles complex types like JSON, arrays, and special characters correctly.

Question 42

How secure is my database connection information?

Accepted Answer

All connection details including passwords are encrypted and stored locally on your device using industry-standard encryption. LunoDB never transmits your credentials to our servers - everything stays on your machine.

Question 43

Can LunoDB access my database data?

Accepted Answer

No, absolutely not. LunoDB connects directly from your device to your databases. We never see your data, queries, or database contents. Your information never passes through our servers.

Question 44

What data does LunoDB collect?

Accepted Answer

We collect minimal anonymous usage statistics (like feature usage) to improve the product, and basic license validation for Pro users. No personal data, queries, or database contents are ever collected. See our Privacy Policy for full details.

Question 45

Is LunoDB safe to use in production environments?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Many developers use LunoDB for production database management. With features like read-only connection modes, query confirmation dialogs, and secure credential storage, LunoDB is designed with production safety in mind.

Question 46

Can I use LunoDB behind a corporate firewall?

Accepted Answer

Yes, LunoDB works within corporate networks. The Pro version's SSH tunneling feature is particularly useful for connecting through bastion hosts or when databases are behind firewalls.

Question 47

How much does LunoDB cost?

Accepted Answer

LunoDB is free to start with core features and 2 database connections. The Pro version is a one-time purchase of $10 that unlocks all features, unlimited connections, and includes lifetime updates. Prefer to pay monthly? You can subscribe for $1.99/mo instead. Ready to upgrade? Purchase LunoDB Pro here.

Question 48

What's included in the Pro license?

Accepted Answer

Pro includes unlimited database connections, advanced Monaco editor with themes and customizations, SSH tunneling, SSL/TLS support, all export formats (CSV, JSON, SQL), unlimited query history with search, advanced filtering, priority email support, and all future updates. AI features work with both Free and Pro versions when you provide your own API key.

Question 49

Can I use one license on multiple devices?

Accepted Answer

The Pro license ($10) is for a single device. If you need to use LunoDB on multiple devices, the Pro Bundle ($20) allows you to use it on up to 3 devices - perfect for your work laptop, personal computer, and development machine.

Question 50

Do you offer refunds?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we offer a 30-day money-back guarantee. If you're not completely satisfied with LunoDB Pro, contact us within 30 days of purchase for a full refund, no questions asked.

Question 51

Are there discounts for students or teams?

Accepted Answer

We occasionally offer student discounts - contact us with your .edu email address. For teams of 10+ users, we're happy to discuss volume pricing. Reach out to us for custom arrangements.

Question 52

What happens after I purchase Pro?

Accepted Answer

After purchase, you'll receive a license key via email. Simply enter it in LunoDB to unlock all Pro features instantly. Your license includes all future updates at no additional cost.

Question 53

Can I upgrade from Free to Pro later?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! You can upgrade to Pro at any time. Your existing connections, queries, and settings will be preserved, and you'll immediately gain access to all Pro features.

Question 54

LunoDB won't connect to my database. What should I check?

Accepted Answer

First, verify your connection details (host, port, username, password). Ensure the database server is running and accessible from your network. Check if there's a firewall blocking the connection. For cloud databases, verify your IP is whitelisted. Try connecting with another tool to confirm the database is accessible.

Question 55

I'm getting a 'Connection timeout' error. How do I fix this?

Accepted Answer

Connection timeouts usually indicate network issues. Check if the database host and port are correct. Verify your internet connection. For cloud databases, ensure your IP address is allowed. If using a VPN, try disconnecting. For databases behind firewalls, you may need SSH tunneling (Pro feature).

Question 56

My queries are running slowly. Any suggestions?

Accepted Answer

Slow queries can have several causes: large result sets (try adding LIMIT), missing indexes, or complex joins. Use LunoDB's query execution time display to identify bottlenecks. Consider adding appropriate indexes to your tables, or break complex queries into smaller parts.

Question 57

LunoDB crashed or froze. What should I do?

Accepted Answer

Try restarting LunoDB first. If crashes persist, check if you're running the latest version. Large result sets can cause memory issues - try limiting query results. If problems continue, contact support with details about what you were doing when it crashed.

Question 58

I can't see all my tables. Where are they?

Accepted Answer

Check if you're connected to the correct database/schema. Some tables might be in different schemas or databases. Verify your user has permission to see all tables. Try refreshing the connection or reconnecting to reload the table list.

Question 59

How do I reset LunoDB to default settings?

Accepted Answer

You can reset LunoDB by closing the application and deleting the configuration files in your user directory. On macOS, look in ~/Library/Application Support/LunoDB/. This will remove all saved connections and preferences, so backup any important connection details first.

Question 60

Export isn't working. What's wrong?

Accepted Answer

Ensure you have write permissions to the export location. Try exporting to your Desktop or Documents folder first. For large exports, make sure you have enough disk space. If exporting query results, ensure the query completed successfully first.

Question 61

How do I share diagnostic information with support?

Accepted Answer

LunoDB includes an Export Diagnostic Logs feature that packages your application logs as a convenient zip file. This is perfect for troubleshooting issues with the support team. You'll receive a clear notification when the export completes, and you can then share the zip file with support to help diagnose any problems you're experiencing.

Question 62

How do I download LunoDB Mobile?

Accepted Answer

LunoDB Mobile is available now for free on the Apple App Store. Android support is coming soon.

Question 63

Is LunoDB Mobile free?

Accepted Answer

Yes, completely free! LunoDB Mobile has no subscription fees, no in-app purchases, and no premium tiers. You get full access to all features at no cost.

Question 64

What devices does LunoDB Mobile support?

Accepted Answer

LunoDB Mobile requires iOS 16 or later for iPhone and iPad, or Android 10 or later. It works on both phones and tablets, with interfaces optimized for each screen size.

Frequently Asked Questions

Getting Started

Haven't found what you're looking for?