# Page 5 | Claris FileMaker Reviews 2026. Verified Reviews, Pros & Cons | Capterra > Page 5 - Is Claris FileMaker the right Database solution for you? Explore 207 verified user reviews from people in industries like yours to make a confident choice. Source: https://www.capterra.com/p/162784/FileMaker/reviews --- Claris FileMaker 4.3 (207) [View alternatives](https://www.capterra.com/p/162784/FileMaker/alternatives/) Provider data verified by our Software Research team, and reviews moderated by our Reviews Verification team. [Learn more](https://www.capterra.com/our-story/) * * * Last updated April 14th, 2026 # Page 5 - Reviews of Claris FileMaker ## Showing most helpful reviews Showing 101-125 of 207 Reviews Sort by: Most Helpful Rating Company Size Reviewer's Role Length of Use Frequency of Use VR Verified Reviewer Director Used the software for: 6-12 months ### "Just Awesome!" July 19, 2018 5.0 Pros My experience in designing relational databases is from MS Access 2003 - before they changed the interface. Filemaker is very reminiscent of that style of simplicity and functionality. Cons Honestly, it's hard to complain about FM because it just works. Whereas the question is not, "What do I dislike?" but rather "What do I like least?" I will say that I am left longing for more visually appealing templates and themes. That would be nice. Review Source KB Karyn B. Senior Graphic Designer E-Learning Used the software for: 2+ years ### "Complex yet versitile" July 6, 2021 4.0 FileMaker has been one of my go-to tools for database management both in my personal and professional life. I love that I can customize virtually any aspect of a layout and/or a record. Pros I love FileMaker, I have been using it for years. It is truly the epitome of what a database should do. Over the years they have made significant improvements and added many new features that I have yet to fully explore. But one thing I really like about FileMaker is that you can create a vast array of layouts (different data) from the same records without having to fiddle through sort features. Cons I do wish it was a bit more user friendly. The field/layout editor is just about the same as it was when I first started working with it over 20 years ago. Although that does make it consistent I do think it could be updated to be more intuitive. Review Source Cameron D. Paid Search Manager Marketing and Advertising Used the software for: 2+ years ### "It Does the Job, but Not Well" October 10, 2018 4.0 Pros It works, it does what it's supposed to do. Cons It can be difficult to use and the inferace isn't very user friendly. Review Source aI alvaro I. engineer Business Supplies and Equipment Used the software for: 2+ years ### "Great software and platform " February 25, 2021 5.0 we use filemaker/claris for more than 8 years and is really useful Pros this Data base manager is OK for MAC users . simple too use and with great migration to/ from Access Cons the mobile app is not included you may pay more for this app. Other software use to include it and is OK for company uses Review Source Tiana T. Human Resources Business Coordinator Automotive Used the software for: 2+ years ### "Large amounts of Data Entry in a short amount of time" March 13, 2019 5.0 This software didn't make sense to me at first because I thought it was too simple. But that's exactly what you want with large amounts of data that is filed away. You don't want it to be convoluted. I was able to have the Workstudy students rock out on this and get a huge backlog of data into a usable format in a matter of weeks. Pros Once you have your forms set up, it's really easy to get a momentum going. Cons There is a learning curve with file creation and customization. Once you get through your first round though. you realize how intuitive it can actually be. Review Source AG Anita G. Owner's Wife Recreational Facilities and Services Used the software for: 6-12 months ### "Best Database Since DBMaster for the Apple IIe!" March 7, 2018 5.0 Simplified workflow. Better contact organization. Email from application. Best record keeping product. Ease of use. Pros Fairly simple to use. Relational database so that we can keep track of lots of different transactions and contacts etc. The best part is that there are many pre-canned solutions to get you started on using the product right away. Makes workflow simple, fast and easy. It is a very powerful database that can be used in so many ways yet doesn't take up much real estate on the computer. I worked on the DB Master platform for several years and it was so easy, this one is also easy to use once it is setup, but to set it up there are many steps. Once it is set up the sky is the limit for reporting, calculations and even using it as a POS system! Cons Must write scripts and lots of code to make it do what I needed it to do, so I ended up hiring a consultant to do the work for us. It was expensive but will pay off with a simpler workflow. Setting it up for your specific needs can be daunting and cumbersome. I would suggest taking a class, looking at training videos and also having a programming background to use it to its full potential. Review Source KF Khai F. Consultant Used the software for: 2+ years ### "Highly configurable, versatile database platform for business" April 4, 2018 4.0 Pros Infinitely customizable, Filemaker is able to support your entire business if you desire. From CRM to manufacturing and inventory management right through to accounting. There are some off-the-shelf Filemaker solutions that can work alone or be the basis for further customizations. Cons Though it is highly configurable, Filemaker generally requires the help of a consultant or developer if you want it to reach its potential. This can be time consuming and expensive. Review Source Marlyn M. Community Manager Used the software for: 1-2 years ### "Manage your files in a more useful way." June 24, 2018 5.0 Pros Automates and easily manages your mobile application services, ten a great advantage speed and flexibility in any development. Cons You need a server to run your applications, it all depends on the size and complexity of your project. Review Source VR Verified Reviewer Production Management Associate Performing Arts Used the software for: 6-12 months ### "File Maker is a great software for creating your own databases or long lasting unique programs." October 5, 2017 5.0 Because it has a server functional feature, we're able to use it throughout our business. Additionally, my supervisor created a unique database to support all of our different payroll tracking needs. Pros The software is incredibly customizable to the necessities of any company. Where I work, we're able to use it to track our department's wildly varying payroll for multiple unions, pay rates, and people. Cons There is a steep learning curve to Filemaker if you're creating your own database or formatting type. If you lack a general tech savvy sense or know how, online tutorials can be incredibly helpful, but to get the full usage of the system, you'll have to put in the time to really learn the ins and outs. There are also occasion bugs on the server version, as well. Review Source Richard W. Gerente general de sistemas Used the software for: 2+ years ### "Very satisfied to work with a platform" May 2, 2018 5.0 Makes it very easy to move from the "Excel spreadsheet" phase to a fully interactive application. Pros It is a good dynamic program with cross-platform capabilities for beginner and novice users. It was not difficult to configure or modify and it was easy to search and extract specific records. Cons It is quite expensive software that has limited capabilities. I think it needs some improvements but nothing that has no solution. Review Source Oliver E. Software Development Specialist Information Technology and Services Used the software for: 6-12 months ### "Splendid data base software for doing a lot of work." August 12, 2018 4.0 Pros FileMaker Platform software is widely used for designing data base production and fast grade applications rapidly. One can create IT assets database with the help of this software. This software saves time and money. Fantastic software for small and medium sized businesses. One can easily gather data base with the help of this software. One can immediately design sophisticated custom application by using this software. Cons When I write about cons, I would say this software seems to be little bit difficult for the new beginners because of its unique layout. For unlocked items, it is easy to override data but in case of locked data, they are unable to function in scripts. Another con is that it lacks a few of word processing capabilities. Review Source SK Shawn K. System Engineer Information Technology and Services Used the software for: 2+ years ### "Custom software with many possibilities." July 10, 2020 5.0 Pros The FileMaker platform allows us to build custom apps for our clients that are tailored to their needs. It can integrate with nearly any web service that has a Rest API. FileMaker has a fantastic community of developers that are willing to share and help each other. Cons The only downside is that it can be a little expensive for some smaller clients. But compared to other platforms, the power you get with FileMaker is a great value. Review Source SY Shannon Y. Controller Used the software for: 2+ years ### "Easy to learn" December 21, 2017 5.0 FileMaker is a great platform to build applications that you can't find anywhere else. You can make an application easily that is perfect for what you need. There are many videos and documents online to help you learn specific features and structures in order to make it perform the way you envisioned. If you know how to write formulas in Excel then you will pick up FileMaker pretty easily. Pros Very easy to learn as you go. Very forgiving while you learn. Very little limitations. Can work with ipads and iphones for the people out in the field as will as back office computers. Cons Time consuming. Does not work with Androids. Once you do one application then it turns into two then three and it never stops. Review Source Caleb S. IT Tech Construction Used the software for: 1-2 years ### "Greatest Record Keeping software availible" May 23, 2019 4.0 Pros Extensive tool selection to create the perfect database and system for your company's needs. Cons Steep Learning curve for beginners, but holds a huge advantage to other programs when utilized. Review Source GE Gary E. Executive Recruiter Staffing and Recruiting Used the software for: 2+ years ### "Why we replaced FileMaker with Big Biller software" November 5, 2020 2.0 It was fine in the 80's but as the world went online and databases required more functionality specifically for the search industry, we simply outgrew this softward. Pros It was fairly straightforward for what it's functionality generated. Cons It was a flat database program NOT designed for search firm use. No outbound marketing capabilities, limited searchability. Totally unsuited for the work we do. Review Source Response from Claris November 11, 2020 Hello Gary. Thank you for your thoughtful review. We're sorry you didn't find value in the solution. However, it sounds like you were on an older version of FileMaker. We are happy to chat to get to the bottom of it. If you're open to discussing further, please reach out to our customer success team at customer\_support@claris.com. fZ flora Z. software specialist Government Administration Used the software for: 2+ years ### "review of FileMaker platform" November 20, 2019 5.0 We developed a bunch of database running on the FileMaker platform for Asset Management, Training Record, Contractors, Equipment, and etc. It is user-friendly and compatible with Windows & Mac, and saves development time, Pros Easy to develop new database Convenient tool of script creation Excellent feature of built-in graphical user interface Cons When a large number of users connect to the FileMaker server at the same time, they cause the application performance issues. Review Source DW Dean W. Senior System Admin Information Technology and Services Used the software for: 2+ years ### "It's anything you need it to be…" February 2, 2023 4.0 Pros From a development standpoint, it couldn't be easier. Even users new to creating databases can be up and running very quickly. Cons Support can be very slow. While it's actually owned by Apple, the support does not live up to their normal standards. Review Source KN Kate N. Director of Operations Construction Used the software for: 2+ years ### "Good platform for customization" August 19, 2019 5.0 Pros We have been using Filemaker Pro for 13 years at our company. It has allowed us to grow and customize our database in ways that other software would limit us. The ability to create scripts and reports on the fly is great for gathering and presenting data. Cons Limited support options, although there are plenty of companies that offer support options. Be prepared to pay well for these though. Review Source BV Beny V. CEO Utilities Used the software for: 2+ years ### "CRM" June 20, 2019 4.0 We've build our own CRM based on a free CRM ( fm starting point) and we have complete changed it to our needs. And that at a fraction of a price they charged for CRM with less features Pros It's a very ease to use database platform. It's easy to program. Many basic applications are available And it work fine. Cons no more manuals in bookform available. A manual in the hand is easier to understand than reading it on the screen. Review Source HB Harold B. Project Manager Wholesale Used the software for: 2+ years ### "Wonderful experience in a data integration project" October 5, 2017 4.0 Quick results Pros Flexibility and speed to produce a desired change are the main benefits of FileMaker. It's easy to accomplish what you need, with simple scripting guidelines. Cons It's easy to fall in to less than ideal database design. You have to be careful about structuring tables and relationships, or inefficient calls will create huge slowdowns in a multi-user system. Review Source MH Michael H. President Medical Devices Used the software for: 2+ years ### "FileMaker allows non-programmers to create powerful software solutions" July 3, 2017 5.0 FileMaker software has allowed me to create my own small business and work with customers around the world from my home office. Without a background in programming, I could not have survived without the ease and affordability of FileMaker software. Pros The FileMaker developer interface allows significant flexibility when I sell my solutions to the audiology community. Customers choose our software over our competitors, since we can offer competitively priced and customized databases Cons There is not much that I don't like about the software, but occasionally, FileMaker will remove desired features within upgrades. Review Source DH David H. Systems Administrator Used the software for: 2+ years ### "Developer using FM for the past 2 years. Started from no knowledge to building entire ERP systems." June 6, 2018 5.0 Pros Development process from inception to implementation is quick Straight forward interface building Simple user management Performance is great Yearly updates are always something to look forward to Cons Cost is a bit much now with version 17 changes to licensing costs. However the software does a really great job and does what it was designed to do perfectly. Review Source JP João P. Software Engineer Computer Software Used the software for: 2+ years ### "Reliable database software" March 28, 2019 5.0 Worked in a place on all the business information has been stored using file maker. That was the main business information system. It was about 8 years actively using FileMaker (from the developer perspective and user perspective) and I can say: it is a reliable software. With thousands of concurrent users working on it, the performance is fenomenal. File make also provides an out of the box database graph, which is used in fact to develop the database. Pros File maker is a different database solution. You can make structural changes on the database with zero downtime in production. It is incredible fast, even with a heavy load. It also allows to create user interfaces on the fly, which results in a full end-to-end information software. Cons The learning curve can be tough, specially for the mindset of the database construction. Review Source BJ Bob J. IT Director Marketing and Advertising Used the software for: 2+ years ### "FileMaker Pro is a very powerful database. Fairly easy to use for simple databases." October 3, 2017 4.0 FileMaker Pro helps me manage multiple databases for a business. The databases are pretty basic, and not complex. Pros Very powerful and versatile. Will do anything you program it to do. It's fairly easy to use, especially with simpler, flat file databases. If you need more complex or relational databases, it can handle those too with some learning of the application. FileMaker Pro can easily import and export data in various formats. Cons The application can be difficult to learn how to create relational databases. It takes some time playing around and experimenting with the various, provided database templates. Over the years, FileMaker Pro has changed the user interface, and IMHO, sometimes not for the better. Review Source KW Katherine W. VP of Meetings Events Services Used the software for: 2+ years ### "I've tried life with FM and without, and I like it better with! :)" July 13, 2017 5.0 Saves me HOURS of my week! :) Pros While mail mergers are handy, FileMaker templates are still the way to go! It can cut down multiple step processes to just one button click once you set it up the first time. You also don't have to re-enter data and risk inconsistencies. We've even used ours to set up automatic report exports we used to have to do manually every day. Such a time saver! Cons Like any software, there's a lot to learn here. But once you get the basics down you can set up some great layouts and scripts to make your life easier! Review Source Similar Products Featured ## Send me user reviews about this product ### Fill out the form and we'll send a list of the top-rated software based on real user reviews directly to your inbox.