BMC AMI DevX vs Redgate SQL Toolbelt Essentials comparison

BMC and Redgate are both solutions in the Database Development and Management category. BMC is ranked #19 with an average rating of 7.5, while Redgate is ranked #9. BMC holds a 2.1% mindshare in DDM, compared to Redgate’s 4.5% mindshare. Additionally, 90% of BMC users are willing to recommend the solution, compared to 100% of Redgate users who would recommend it.

BMC AMI DevX

Read 19 BMC AMI DevX reviews

4,806 Views
529 Comparison Views

90% willing to recommend

Redgate SQL Toolbelt Essent...

Read 2 Redgate SQL Toolbelt Essentials reviews

1,500 Views
1,455 Comparison Views

100% willing to recommend

BMC AMI DevX

Redgate SQL Toolbelt Essent...

Comparison Buyer's Guide

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Executive SummaryUpdated on Mar 15, 2026

BMC AMI DevX and Redgate SQL Toolbelt Essentials provide robust developer solutions. While BMC offers strengths in pricing and support, Redgate is noted for its extensive feature set, making it attractive for those valuing advanced functionalities.

Features: BMC AMI DevX offers advanced debugging, performance tuning, and comprehensive mainframe support. Redgate SQL Toolbelt Essentials includes database versioning, automation tools, and deployment features tailored for SQL Server environments.

Ease of Deployment and Customer Service: Redgate SQL Toolbelt Essentials integrates seamlessly with SQL Server, providing intuitive navigation and responsive support. BMC AMI DevX, suitable for mainframe environments, may encounter deployment challenges outside its niche, despite offering commendable support.

Pricing and ROI: BMC AMI DevX is seen as cost-effective for mainframe users, driving substantial ROI with its tools and support. Redgate SQL Toolbelt Essentials, although having a higher initial cost, offers value by enhancing SQL development efficiency and simplifying complex management tasks.

To learn more, read our detailed BMC AMI DevX vs. Redgate SQL Toolbelt Essentials Report (Updated: March 2026).

Buyer's Guide

BMC AMI DevX vs. Redgate SQL Toolbelt Essentials

March 2026

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Helped 884,797 peers since 2012

Review summaries and opinions

We asked business professionals to review the solutions they use. Here are some excerpts of what they said:

Categories and Ranking

BMC AMI DevX

Ranking in Database Development and Management

19th

Average Rating

8.0

Reviews Sentiment

7.2

Number of Reviews

Ranking in other categories

Software Configuration Management (1st), Debugging (9th), Mainframe Application Development (1st), Test Data Management (6th), Mainframe Testing Tools (1st), Data Masking (6th), AI Software Development (205th)

Redgate SQL Toolbelt Essent...

Ranking in Database Development and Management

9th

Average Rating

8.0

Reviews Sentiment

7.2

Number of Reviews

Ranking in other categories

No ranking in other categories

Mindshare comparison

As of March 2026, in the Database Development and Management category, the mindshare of BMC AMI DevX is 2.1%, up from 0.6% compared to the previous year. The mindshare of Redgate SQL Toolbelt Essentials is 4.5%, down from 5.3% compared to the previous year. It is calculated based on PeerSpot user engagement data.

Database Development and Management Mindshare Distribution
Product	Mindshare (%)
Redgate SQL Toolbelt Essentials	4.5%
BMC AMI DevX	2.1%
Other	93.4%

Database Development and Management

Featured Reviews

RobertSamson

Technical Consultant at Services Robert Samson SCRS

Improves disaster recovery processes and offers an efficient CPU cycle optimization

Using BMC Data Management for IMS and DB2 on z/OS has greatly improved our database administration tasks. Although we don't test the database before production, we have experienced benefits in disaster recovery situations and capacity management. For instance, when facing capacity issues during peak transaction times, I've been able to quickly allocate additional resources to ensure smooth operations. This has been crucial, especially during times when the demand surges, such as peak flight hours.

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ChristopherSmith1

Director, Enterprise Data Management at Glatfelter Insurance Group

SQL Search and change automation functionality help us manage our code repository and databases

The biggest problem with the Redgate SQL Toolbelt is just how heavy it is; it seems to take a lot of resources. It takes a lot of memory and a lot of processing power to run, and that tends to slow things down a bit. Making it a little more lightweight while still doing the same thing, as much as possible, is what we would like to see in the future. I've noticed that Microsoft SSMS runs much quicker without RedGate installed than it does with it installed. From bootup of the app to opening query windows and connections, SSMS is quicker without Redgate than with, by a significant margin. The other area for improvement is regarding licensing. Every month or two my SSMS loses it's redgate license key and I need to re-enter the key to continue using Red Gate, even though the license is annual.

Read full review

Quotes from Members

We asked business professionals to review the solutions they use. Here are some excerpts of what they said:

Pros

"Test data management capabilities are good."

"We can develop in parallel today on ISPF, but it's giving us the advantage of the newer interface into the mainframe programming languages that younger programmers can use and are familiar with, rather than using the ISPF green screen."

"We had parallel development before, but the way ISPW implements it is better. It has more control and oversight of the process, whereas before, it was like the Wild West. Everybody could have their own package with their own version of the component in it... ISPW is constantly aware of it. It notifies when someone else is using or has a different version of that component."

"The most valuable feature of Topaz is Xpediter. It's more flexible than Xpediter through MVS."

"From a user perspective, the GUIs make it easier for people to see and interact with files on the mainframe."

"I think the most valuable features are code management, code deployment, and code generation. The fact that those three features are included makes BMC Compuware ISPW a robust product. If one of those features was missing, it would be less robust and less interesting. But because it has those three features, it is a very good solution for code development and management."

"BMC Data Management improved our data recovery process by simplifying it."

"One of the features that the developers like is that they can retrieve what they need with the tool. They don't have to go through some process or request something be done by another team. They can get the programs they need, compile them, retrieve the JCL and alter the JCL if they need to, and put these programs wherever they need to go for their testing."

More BMC AMI DevX pros

"The most valuable feature is SQL Search."

"It is easy to track the reports, this is what is most valuable for me."

Cons

"One area for improvement with this product could be in providing clearer guidance and tools for disaster recovery planning and execution."

"Better discussions to identify inventory prior to the start of any migration would be helpful for potential clients that have applications with code that is not modified often."

"Technical support has gotten better over the years, though there's always room for improvement."

"It would be nice to have an audit trail to see what mainframe developers are using what."

"Their technical support could be better. There were times where, when we reported bugs, they would fix one bug but add another one. That's probably because of their support model. A lot of organizations are developing software using Agile rather than the Waterfall method, so things are happening all over the place. You get things quicker, but sometimes one fix will break another one or add other bugs."

"One thing I would really like to see some improvement on is the promotion diagnostic messages. It invokes utilities "under the covers" to copy components, and it does not echo back any of the error messages from those utilities."

"The ability to edit source code that has special characters is limited. The ability to incorporate or convert REXX into macros that are usable under the Topaz software is not there. And the REXX macros that I have developed over 40 years of work are useless, so I have a toolbox I can't use or deploy using the Topaz technology, while I can use it under MVS."

"It would be good if the vendors would work together or at least have some collaboration between them, so they would know what would work and what wouldn't work. Right now, the way things are working, they're relying on the customer to make everything work."

More BMC AMI DevX cons

"I would like to see the bandwidth increase allowing me to easily analyze more data."

"The biggest problem with the Redgate SQL Toolbelt is just how heavy it is; it seems to take a lot of resources."

Pricing and Cost Advice

"In terms of pricing, there isn't an extra charge for the parts of it we use. It comes with the licenses we purchased for other products, so no complaints there. The licensing is built in with the other products that you purchase from Compuware."

"The price point is great."

"The only thing I would mention related to the licensing and/or the pricing, is that they have some visualization features in there that are licensed by concurrent users. We're starting to trip up on that. We're looking to probably increase the number of concurrent licenses that we have. But those types of licensing strategies, where they license by concurrent users or the number of seats is confusing for some people. They don't understand why it works sometimes and doesn't work other times."

"In general, Compuware tools are very competitive."

"It has saved our developers time and effort when working on documentation, which is now more readable and fluent."

"I like the seat-based licensing much more than MSU-based licensing, and that the cost has been competitive."

"The cost is about $3,500 USD per individual to buy, and then it's about 20% per year for renewal."

"Our fees are paid on an annual basis."

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Top Industries

By visitors reading reviews

Financial Services Firm

33%

Insurance Company

11%

Manufacturing Company

Computer Software Company

Financial Services Firm

15%

Computer Software Company

Insurance Company

Government

Company Size

By reviewers

Large Enterprise

Midsize Enterprise

Small Business

By reviewers
Company Size	Count
Small Business	6
Large Enterprise	16

No data available

Questions from the Community

What do you like most about BMC Data Management for IMS and DB2 on zOS?

BMC Data Management improved our data recovery process by simplifying it.

See all answers

What needs improvement with BMC Data Management for IMS and DB2 on zOS?

One area for improvement with this product could be in providing clearer guidance and tools for disaster recovery planning and execution. As someone involved in managing infrastructure, understandi...

See all answers

What advice do you have for others considering BMC Data Management for IMS and DB2 on zOS?

From my perspective as an infrastructure guy, the most valuable aspect of BMC's data management solutions was their ability to optimize CPU cycles, improving IMS performance without directly impact...

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Comparisons

Endevor vs BMC AMI DevX

Compared 12% of the time

IBM File Manager vs BMC AMI DevX

Compared 8% of the time

InterTest vs BMC AMI DevX

Compared 6% of the time

Broadcom Test Data Manager vs BMC AMI DevX

Compared 5% of the time

IBM Debug for z/OS vs BMC AMI DevX

Compared 4% of the time

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IDERA SQL Diagnostic Manager for SQL Server vs Redgate SQL Toolbelt Essentials

Compared 13% of the time

IDERA DB Change Manager vs Redgate SQL Toolbelt Essentials

Compared 9% of the time

Spotlight vs Redgate SQL Toolbelt Essentials

Compared 7% of the time

Toad for Oracle vs Redgate SQL Toolbelt Essentials

Compared 6% of the time

DBmaestro Database Source Control vs Redgate SQL Toolbelt Essentials

Compared 4% of the time

More Redgate SQL Toolbelt Essentials Competitors

Product Reports

Buyer's Guide

BMC AMI DevX

March 2026

Download BMC AMI DevX product report

Buyer's Guide

Database Development and Management

March 2026

Download Redgate SQL Toolbelt Essentials product report

Also Known As

File-AID, Data for Db2, Code Debug, Data Studio, Workbench for Eclipse, Code Pipeline

No data available

Overview

BMC AMI DevX is a comprehensive solution enhancing code management and testing efficiency. It offers debugging capabilities within financial applications and integrates data management seamlessly, serving major banking sectors with reliable performance.

AMI DevX is tailored for banking industries, optimizing application debugging in COBOL and enhancing data handling in robust financial systems. It simplifies mainframe data management with real-time insights, improving efficiency through editing and cloning functionalities. The tool's integration with Compuware File-AID for IMS and DB2 ensures streamlined development processes. Challenges include a steep DB2 learning curve and initial setup complexities, with technical support inconsistencies and steep pricing impacting affordability. Despite this, its valuable features significantly support large banking operations.

What features make BMC AMI DevX valuable?

Line-by-Line Code Debugging: Allows precise identification and rectification of issues.
Variable Change & Line Skipping: Flexibility in testing without recompiling.
Database-Independent Testing: No need for loading databases during testing.
Real-Time Data Insights: Enhances decision-making with immediate information.
Data Warehousing & Analytics: Facilitates comprehensive data analysis.
Integration & Formatting: Streamlines development by simplifying data processes.

What benefits should users look for in reviews?

Improved Efficiency: Streamline data management and editing capabilities.
Robust Debugging: Effective in both online and batch COBOL program debugging.
Enhanced Financial Application Support: Superior handling in grants and loans applications.
Comprehensive Testing: Enables creation of clone test files for thorough testing.

In large banking sectors, BMC AMI DevX is integral for grants and loans-related applications. Its robust nature supports financial systems, offering debugging for COBOL, updating data in Compuware File-AID for IMS, and integrating DB2. Users implement this for exceptional data management and application reliability.

BMC

Redgate SQL Toolbelt Essentials offers essential tools for optimizing, managing, and deploying SQL Server databases efficiently, ideal for professionals seeking reliable database solutions.

Designed for database professionals, Redgate SQL Toolbelt Essentials streamlines SQL Server database management with a suite of integrated tools. It simplifies complex tasks, increases productivity, and helps maintain consistency across deployments. By automating repetitive tasks, it allows users to focus on critical areas, promoting a more efficient workflow. Its integration with existing systems ensures a smooth transition and compatibility with current technologies.

What are the most important features?

SQL Compare: Compares and synchronizes database schemas to keep environments in sync.
SQL Data Compare: Matches data across databases to ensure data integrity.
SQL Source Control: Integrates with version control systems to track database changes.
SQL Prompt: Provides code suggestions for faster and more accurate query writing.

What benefits and ROI should users look for?

Time Savings: Automates repetitive tasks, reducing manual effort.
Enhanced Accuracy: Minimizes risk of errors with reliable comparison and synchronization.
Scalability: Supports growth with seamless integration with version control systems.
Increased Productivity: Boosts development speed by offering efficient code suggestions.

Industries implementing Redgate SQL Toolbelt Essentials often experience increased efficiency in database management. For example, financial services use it for precise data handling, while healthcare leverages its data integrity features to ensure accurate patient records, improving both the security and reliability of their IT infrastructure.

Redgate

Sample Customers

Helvetia, The IMT Group, Hapag-Lloyd, Royal Bank of Canada, Chunghwa Telecom

Thinger.fi, Churchill College Univeristy of Cambridge, Margin Business Solutions Ltd., 4Penny.net, Sportinginsider.net, Lockheed Martin, Phillip Securities Pte Ltd, Nmbrs

Buyer's Guide

BMC AMI DevX vs. Redgate SQL Toolbelt Essentials

March 2026

Free Report: BMC AMI DevX vs. Redgate SQL Toolbelt Essentials

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