Introduction

SQLSpec is a SQL first data access layer. It keeps you close to SQL while adding type-safe results, consistent driver APIs, and optional tooling for query construction and observability.

What SQLSpec does

First-class SQL

Write the SQL you want. SQLSpec validates and normalizes statements before execution.

Type-safe results

Map rows into typed objects like msgspec, Pydantic, or dataclasses.

Unified connectivity

One API for sync/async drivers across PostgreSQL, SQLite, DuckDB, MySQL, Oracle, and more.

Optional builder + observability

Use the fluent SQL builder and instrument queries with OpenTelemetry or Prometheus.

Not an ORM

SQLSpec is intentionally not an ORM. It optimizes for SQL-first workflows.

Focus	SQLSpec	Traditional ORM
Abstraction	Minimal, SQL-centric	Model-centric, hides SQL
Core use case	Query mapper + data integration	Object graphs + unit-of-work
Data workflows	Fast, explicit, Arrow-friendly	Heavier mapping and state tracking

Good fit when

• You prefer writing SQL and want predictable behavior.

• You need consistent APIs across multiple databases.

• You care about performance, type safety, and data‑engineering workflows.

• You want optional tools rather than a full ORM stack.