About Kysely
Kysely is an open source SQL query builder for TypeScript. It lets you write queries in a SQL-like style, and the compiler checks table and column names as you type.
What it does
Kysely builds SQL queries through a chained API and gives you result types that match each select. When a column is renamed, the TypeScript compiler points to every query that needs an update. Queries can be split into typed functions and reused, and subqueries and common table expressions compose the same way. The library has no runtime dependencies and runs on Node, Deno, Bun, edge workers and browsers.
Key features
- Typed queries that catch errors at compile time
- Reusable typed query fragments
- Nested typed results from subqueries
- Zero runtime dependencies
- Runs on Node, Deno, Bun and browsers
Who it's for
TypeScript developers who prefer writing SQL and want strong types rather than a full ORM. It suits teams with complex queries or reporting needs.
Pricing and good to know
Kysely is free and open source under the MIT license. You write the queries yourself, so you should know SQL well. The query builder exposes SQL concepts directly, which is a strength for complex work but takes some familiarity to use well.
Highlights
- Typed queries that catch errors at compile time
- Reusable typed query fragments
- Nested typed results from subqueries
- Zero runtime dependencies
- Runs on Node, Deno, Bun and browsers
