Claris FileMaker Pro and Microsoft Access are two of the most popular database management software out in the market. The clash between them is not always the matter of “which is the best” but “which will fit better for your purposes.” 

So, comparing both FileMaker and Access, you’ll find the one that you are looking for.

Let’s see a broader picture before jumping into the specifics of this software. Claris FileMaker Pro is a multiplatform program that can manage data easily, thanks to its Graphical User Interface (GUI). 

It began as Microsoft software but lately, it has integrated more templates to use on other operating systems like Mac OS and mobile devices with iOS.

FileMaker comes with many different plans for individual users but also plans with web-based servers that allow hosting multiple users.

Access comes as part of the Microsoft Office package that provides support for many Microsoft programs like Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint, etc. So, when discussing pricing, keep in mind that you will get extra applications rather than just Microsoft Access.

It works well as a front-end application for data manipulation and queries while getting back-end support from databases such as Oracle, Sybase, and many more. 

Both FileMaker and Access work with SQL databases such as SQL servers and Oracle by installing Open Database Connectivity (OBDC) drivers.

Microsoft Access is exclusive to the Windows OS, and it adapts to the Microsoft Office suite. Meanwhile, Claris FileMaker, even as a subsidiary of Apple, is compatible with several operating systems, such as Windows, Mac OS X, Linux, and iOS, and can share databases with its users.

Microsoft Access can store up to 1 TB of data on its Share Point servers, but with no bigger files than 2 GB, with text fields holding up to 255 characters, and its Memo fields capable of holding 65,535 characters. 

Meanwhile, Claris FileMaker Pro can store up to 8 TB of database, and its files can reach 2 GB of data. Essentially, this is limited only by your hardware, but it can vary depending on which plan you acquired.

Microsoft Access allows users to restrict access at the database level only. Access files can be secured by transferring them to a Microsoft SQL server. It gives additional protection and requires a username and password, that can be used to specify if the particular person is given read-only or read-and-write privileges.

Claris FileMaker has AES-256 bit encryption to protect data on a desktop or a FileMaker server. Its flexibility with its role-based and field-level security options allows users to restrict access to databases, or specific layouts or fields within the database. 

FileMaker also offers Encryption at Rest (EAR), Encryption in Transit (EIT), Active Directory Integration, and OAUTH integration as native features of the platform.

Claris FileMaker Pro has many objects like different layouts with summaries. It has a “Point & Click” scripting language with over 130 script steps which gives users the possibility to automate tasks with ease.

FileMaker also uses “Drag & Drop” reporting tools to create a variety of custom reports, which can be shared and viewed with Instant Share Publishing.

Microsoft Access includes many different objects too as tables, queries, forms, reports, data access pages, macros, and modules. It uses Visual Basics for Applications (VBA) as its main development language.

Their “Wizard” software help in creating simple reports, but any modification, however, requires the use of an advanced interface design, and charts are limited to Wizard options.

Claris FileMaker has many built-in database templates, layout themes, and an intuitive graphical interface that makes it easy and fast to learn. FileMaker creates comprehensive solutions that can be easily optimized for several platforms. Additionally, there are many accessible tutorials and webinars around the web.

As we noted with the customization process, Microsoft Access suffers from its intricate User Interface when compared to FileMaker. It lacks built-in database views and already makes the initial learning curve higher for new users. 

Access also has a separation of regular database and web database templates, which results in fragmented solutions and limited features.

This is, probably, the “big win” for Microsoft Access, as it is simple and comes with the whole Office package. You don’t even need to get a subscription. With a one-time purchase of a key for Office 2021 (the latest version), you are good to go.  You won’t only get Access. It comes with Word, Excel, OneNote, PowerPoint, Outlook, Publisher and Teams for less than $12. 

Then, we go to Claris FileMaker, which can become a bit convoluted at first glance. We have two versions with FileMaker Pro Essentials and Standard, and then FileMaker Server:

FileMaker Pro Essentials

• The “One-time purchase” it's for individuals and costs $594 but lacks many subscription-based purchase features, like sharing the app with a team or running it on a mobile device.
• The monthly subscription is aimed at teams and costs $21/month and user. It is billed annually. 
• Just for 5 to 10 users. 
• Hosting limit of 3 apps.
• 2 GB of FileMaker Storage per user and year. 
• 2 GB of API outbound data transfer per month.

FileMaker Pro Standard

• Monthly subscription at $43/month and user. Billed annually.
• For 5 to 99 users. Can be expanded. 
• Hosting limit of 125 apps.
• 6 GB of data storage, with further upgrades available for purchase.
• 2 GB of API outbound data transfer per month.

FileMaker Server

• Monthly subscription at $16.50/month and user. Billed annually.
• For 5 to 99 users. Can be upgraded.
• Access to all clients - Pro, Go, and WebDirect.
• 2 GB of API outbound data transfer per month.

We have FileMaker Connect too, but that is intended for automation, so you don’t get confused.

If you are looking from a businesses standpoint and you require more advanced functionalities, Claris FileMaker is your best option. 

But it’s quite an investment. That holds it back. The pricing and payment method are Microsoft Access’ strong arm. It is way cheaper for individuals, and you don’t get only Access, but the whole premium Office pack. And you can find one-time purchases for Office 2021 that beats everyone regarding the cost.