Claris FileMaker vs Microsoft Access
Claris FileMaker: Low-code database app builder for Mac, Windows, iPad and web, owned by Apple's Claris. Microsoft Access: Desktop database and forms builder bundled with Microsoft 365; still everywhere in back offices.
key differences
- Only Claris FileMaker has full-text search, vector search, role-based access.
choose filemaker for
- +Small-business CRM, inventory and job tracking
- +Departmental apps in schools, labs and nonprofits
- +iPad field data collection
- +Replacing spreadsheets with a shared, permissioned app
best at · OLTP, Content, Mobile/offline
choose microsoft-access for
- +Small departmental tracking apps
- +Front ends over SQL Server tables
- +Ad hoc data cleanup and reporting by analysts
- +Maintaining existing business-critical .accdb apps
best at · OLTP, Embedded
Claris FileMaker vs Microsoft Access: FAQ
What is the difference between Claris FileMaker and Microsoft Access?
Claris FileMaker: Low-code database app builder for Mac, Windows, iPad and web, owned by Apple's Claris. Microsoft Access: Desktop database and forms builder bundled with Microsoft 365; still everywhere in back offices. Only Claris FileMaker has full-text search, vector search, role-based access.
When should I choose Claris FileMaker over Microsoft Access?
Choose Claris FileMaker for small-business CRM, inventory and job tracking; departmental apps in schools, labs and nonprofits; and iPad field data collection. Choose Microsoft Access for small departmental tracking apps; front ends over SQL Server tables; and ad hoc data cleanup and reporting by analysts.
Is Claris FileMaker or Microsoft Access more popular?
Microsoft Access ranks #37 on the WhichDB Score (45.8/100) and Claris FileMaker ranks #80 (31.2/100). Popularity is not fit: check the requirements that matter for your project.
Are Claris FileMaker and Microsoft Access open source?
No. Claris FileMaker is proprietary, closed-source software. No. Microsoft Access is proprietary, closed-source software.