SQL Server MCP (Windows) vs MCP Toolbox for Databases

In-depth architectural comparison of the SQL Server MCP (Windows) and MCP Toolbox for Databases MCP servers. Compare execution transports, security boundaries, tool capabilities, quality scores, and ready-to-paste client installation snippets for Claude, Cursor, Windsurf, and VS Code.

Which MCP Server Should You Choose?

Choose SQL Server MCP (Windows) when:

• You need dedicated capabilities in the Databases domain.
• You prefer local stdio subprocess transport architecture.
• Your security boundary fits: No auth required (Free / Open Source).

Explore SQL Server MCP (Windows) Details

Choose MCP Toolbox for Databases when:

• You need dedicated capabilities in the Databases domain.
• You prefer local stdio subprocess transport architecture.
• Your security boundary fits: No auth required (Free / Open Source).

Explore MCP Toolbox for Databases Details

Feature & Specification Comparison

Specification	SQL Server MCP (Windows) Databases	MCP Toolbox for Databases Databases
Summary	SQL Server MCP with RAG capabilities for Windows (native ODBC support)	MCP Toolbox for Databases enables your agent to connect to your database.
Category & Scope	Databases	Databases

Tools & Capabilities Breakdown

Ready-to-Paste Client Configurations

Paste either (or both) of these JSON server blocks into your client config file (e.g. claude_desktop_config.json or ~/.cursor/mcp.json).

{
  "mcpServers": {
    "sql-server-mcp-windows": {
      "command": "npx",
      "args": [
        "-y",
        "@tharanabopearachchi/sql-server-mcp@latest"
      ]
    }
  }
}

{
  "mcpServers": {
    "mcp-toolbox-for-databases": {
      "command": "npx",
      "args": [
        "-y",
        "@toolbox-sdk/server"
      ]
    }
  }
}

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