Bani vs FullConvert
An honest comparison between Bani and FullConvert for database migration.
Bani
Open-source database migration engine built on Apache Arrow. Designed for automation, AI integration, and developer workflows.
Best for: developers, DevOps teams, CI/CD pipelines, AI-assisted workflows.
FullConvert
Commercial database conversion tool with a polished GUI and broad connector coverage. Focused on point-and-click database migration on Windows.
Best for: Windows users who prefer a GUI, teams needing many niche connectors.
Feature comparison
| Feature | Bani | FullConvert |
|---|---|---|
| License | Apache-2.0 (free) | Proprietary (from $499) |
| Platforms | macOS, Linux, Windows, Docker | Windows only |
| Connectors | 5 (PostgreSQL, MySQL, MSSQL, Oracle, SQLite) | 10+ (broader coverage) |
| Interface | CLI, SDK, MCP, Web UI | GUI application |
| Configuration | Declarative BDL (XML/JSON) | GUI wizard |
| Automation | CLI + SDK + JSON output | Limited (command-line mode) |
| AI Integration | MCP Server with 10 tools | None |
| Data Format | Apache Arrow (columnar) | Proprietary |
| Version Control | BDL files in git | Project files |
| Extensibility | Pluggable connectors via entry points | Closed |
Where Bani excels
- Free and open source under Apache-2.0
- Cross-platform: runs on macOS, Linux, Windows, and Docker
- AI-native: MCP server enables agent-driven migrations
- Automation-first: CLI, SDK, and JSON output for CI/CD
- Declarative BDL configurations live in version control
- Extensible connector system for community contributions
Where FullConvert excels
- More connectors (10+) including niche databases
- Mature, polished GUI for visual migration setup
- Long track record with established user base
- Built-in scheduling and change tracking features
- Commercial support with dedicated team
Switching from FullConvert?
If you are currently using FullConvert and considering Bani, the migration is straightforward.
Bani's declarative BDL format makes it easy to express the same migration you configured in FullConvert's GUI.
Start with bani schema inspect to analyze your databases, then generate a BDL configuration.