Must-Have NuGet Packages for SQLite-Powered .NET Apps

SQLite is a lightweight yet powerful database engine that is widely used in .NET applications. Whether you need ADO·NET access, Entity Framework integration, or low-level database control, the right NuGet package can simplify SQLite database management. Below are the essential NuGet packages for .NET developers using SQLite.

ADO.NET Providers for SQLite

System·Data·SQLite

System.Data.SQLite is the official ADO·NET provider for SQLite, maintained by the SQLite development team. It offers a fully managed implementation of SQLite, ensuring reliable database connectivity for .NET applications.

Features:

• Official SQLite support for .NET applications

• Comprehensive ADO·NET implementation, including transactions and connection pooling

• Compatible with Entity Framework 6

Installation:

Install-Package System.Data.SQLite

Link:

https://www.nuget.org/packages/System.Data.SQLite/

Microsoft.Data.Sqlite

Microsoft.Data.Sqlite is a lightweight SQLite provider optimized for .NET applications, particularly those running on .NET Core and .NET 5+.

Features:

• Optimized for .NET Core and .NET 5+

• Minimal dependencies, ensuring faster performance

• Fully compatible with Entity Framework Core

Installation:

Install-Package Microsoft.Data.Sqlite

Link:

https://www.nuget.org/packages/Microsoft.Data.Sqlite/

Devart.Data.SQLite

Devart.Data.SQLite is a high-performance ADO·NET provider that enhances SQLite functionality in .NET applications. It offers advanced query execution and direct database connectivity.

Features:

• Direct mode for database access without requiring SQLite client libraries

• Optimized for high-speed data processing and performance

• Secure database encryption support

Installation:

Install-Package Devart.Data.SQLite

Link:

https://www.nuget.org/packages/Devart.Data.SQLite/

Entity Framework Providers for SQLite

Devart.Data.SQLite.EFCore

Devart.Data.SQLite.EFCore is an advanced SQLite provider tailored for Entity Framework Core applications, offering seamless integration and improved performance.

Features:

• Full Entity Framework Core support for SQLite databases

• Enhanced query execution and performance optimization

• Custom data providers for extended functionality

Installation:

Install-Package Devart.Data.SQLite.EFCore

Link:

https://www.nuget.org/packages/Devart.Data.SQLite.EFCore/

Low-Level SQLite Access

SQLitePCLRaw

SQLitePCLRaw provides a low-level interface for interacting with SQLite databases, making it ideal for developers who need fine-grained control over SQLite functionality.

Features:

• Works across Windows, Linux, and macOS

• Provides direct access to SQLite API for custom database implementations

• Supports custom-compiled SQLite versions

Installation:

Install-Package SQLitePCLRaw.bundle_e_sqlite3

Link:

https://www.nuget.org/packages/SQLitePCLRaw.bundle_e_sqlite3/

Conclusion

Choosing the right SQLite NuGet package depends on your development needs:

• System.Data.SQLite and Microsoft.Data.Sqlite are great choices for ADO·NET integration.

• Devart.Data.SQLite and Devart.Data.SQLite.EFCore offer high-performance enhancements for both ADO·NET and Entity Framework Core.

• SQLitePCLRaw is ideal for developers requiring direct low-level SQLite access.

Each package helps streamline SQLite database integration, ensuring efficient data management and improved application performance.