TypeORM

Feature-rich ORM for TypeScript and JavaScript supporting SQL databases and migrations.

Overview

TypeORM is an Object-Relational Mapping (ORM) library built from the ground up with TypeScript support, providing complete type safety for database models. It supports both DataMapper and ActiveRecord patterns, giving developers flexibility in how they structure their applications.

The library works across multiple platforms including Node.js, browsers, mobile (React Native, Ionic, Cordova), and desktop (Electron), and supports a wide range of databases: PostgreSQL, MySQL, MariaDB, SQLite, MS SQL Server, Oracle, MongoDB, Google Spanner, SAP HANA, and CockroachDB. TypeORM provides a powerful QueryBuilder for complex queries, automatic migration generation, and an elegant, type-safe API for database interactions.

Key features

DataMapper and ActiveRecord pattern support
TypeScript-first with full type safety
Multi-database support (8+ databases)
Powerful QueryBuilder with joins and pagination
Automatic migration generation
Cross-platform compatibility
Entity relationships and cascades
Query caching and logging
Connection pooling and replication

Pros

Excellent TypeScript support with decorators
Supports more databases than competing JS/TS ORMs
Works on multiple platforms (Node, browser, mobile, desktop)
Flexible pattern choice (DataMapper or ActiveRecord)
Automatic migration generation
Comprehensive feature set for enterprise applications

Cons

Requires TypeScript configuration (decorators and metadata)
Steeper learning curve compared to simpler query builders
Additional dependencies needed (reflect-metadata)
May be overkill for simple CRUD applications

Use this if

You need a type-safe ORM with broad database support, are building TypeScript applications, or require flexibility between DataMapper and ActiveRecord patterns.

Skip this if

You prefer lightweight query builders, need minimal dependencies, or are building simple applications that don't require a full ORM.

Best for

TypeScript projects requiring type-safe database accessApplications needing multi-database supportBuilding scalable enterprise applicationsCross-platform applications (Node.js, mobile, desktop)Projects using either DataMapper or ActiveRecord patterns

Alternatives

PrismaSequelizeKnex.jsMikroORMDrizzle ORM

Compare TypeORM alternatives

More Library

Compare all

React Query

Data-fetching and state management library designed to handle server state in web applications.

dotenv

Zero-dependency module loading environment variables from .env files into Node.js apps.

Solidjs

JavaScript library designed for building user interfaces with a focus on declarative syntax and efficiency.

UnoCSS

Instant on-demand atomic CSS engine — flexible, fast alternative to Tailwind.