Collections Database Hits a Sweet Spot

Collections Database   is a user-friendly app by developer Matteo D'Ignazio, with an easy learning curve. It's not made for SQL experts or those who need complicated relational connections. For most Mac users who want a polished and well-supported way to manage and track collections, inventories, and various items, it's almost a no-brainer, supporting macOS and iOS and costing only $6.99 on the Mac App Store for the pro version. There is a free version, limited to 100 records, but sufficient for testing if you want to try before you buy.

What's To Like

• Ease of Use: Made for everyday use without requiring prior database experience or SQL skills.
• Flexibility: Over 20 different field types. Easy to customize and adapt for books, media, gear, inventory, etc.
• Templates: No need to start from scratch for common database types.
• Apple Shortcut Support: Easy to automate.
• Privacy: No ads and no login required. Data syncs via iCloud.
• Price: Compared to FileMaker Pro, which is a whopping $45 a month.
• Visual Features: The ability to use barcodes/images makes it more appealing than just a plain text app. You can add book jackets, movie posters, etc.

Caveats

• Not an enterprise app for those who need a full relational database with SQL support.
• The free tier is suitable for small collections and testing only.
• Moving single records between collections is kind of janky and not well supported.
• For UI/UX nerds, it can feel like an iPad port because some features don't have a native macOS feel.
• While it does have advanced features like formulas and linking, the documentation could be better, and the learning curve is a little steep in these areas.
• Performance can degrade with large collections (thousands of items) if there are many images and files attached.

I have Collections databases for quotes, specific groups of movies, and tech purchases. I've also found downloadable ready-made databases shared by other users. The developer, Matteo D'Ignazio, has a great reputation for being helpful and supportive, always a plus.