Tusk - Native PostgreSQL clients for macOS and Linux, free and open source.

What it does

Tusk is a native PostgreSQL client available for macOS (SwiftUI, macOS 14+) and Linux (GNOME, GTK4 + libadwaita, Python 3.11+). It provides a comprehensive set of database management tools including a schema browser, data browser, SQL editor, table inspector, file explorer, and activity monitor. Tusk supports features like SSH tunnels, SSL/TLS (macOS), multiple simultaneous connections (macOS), and various import/export options. It is free and open source, with no telemetry or subscription required.

Who it is for

Tusk is designed for PostgreSQL developers and database administrators who prefer native desktop applications over Electron-based tools. It targets users on macOS and Linux (GNOME) who value performance, low resource usage, and a clean, platform-native interface. The project is particularly appealing to open-source enthusiasts and those who want to avoid telemetry and subscription fees.

Why it matters

Many PostgreSQL clients are built on Electron, which can be resource-heavy. Tusk offers a lightweight alternative by using native frameworks (SwiftUI on macOS, GTK4 on Linux). Its open-source nature and lack of telemetry address privacy concerns. The feature set is competitive with paid tools, covering schema browsing, SQL editing, data manipulation, and database monitoring. The project is actively maintained with regular releases.

Launch signal

Tusk was launched on Hacker News as a Show HN post titled "Tusk for macOS and Gnome" (source: Hacker News). The website and GitHub repositories show recent releases (v2026.06.04-00 for macOS, v2026.04.16-00 for GNOME), indicating ongoing development. The project is hosted under the Shape Machine organization on GitHub.

Brand and naming

The name "Tusk" is short, memorable, and evokes the idea of a tool that helps dig into data (like an elephant's tusk). The branding is minimal and functional, matching the no-nonsense, open-source ethos. The tagline "No Electron, No Telemetry, No Subscription" clearly positions it against popular Electron-based clients like Postico or TablePlus.