SQL Server Management Studio vs Azure Data Studio: A Detailed Comparison

SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS) and Azure Data Studio (ADS) are two popular tools for managing SQL Server databases, each with distinct features. SSMS is a comprehensive, feature-rich tool primarily designed for managing SQL Server databases with a focus on administrative tasks, offering robust support for SQL Server Agent, profiling, and more. Azure Data Studio, on the other hand, is a lightweight, cross-platform tool aimed at both developers and administrators, with a modern interface and integrated support for writing and executing queries, notebooks, and extensions. While SSMS excels in administrative depth, ADS stands out for its flexibility, ease of use, and support for multiple data sources, including cloud environments like Azure.