Gone are the days when coding skills were a prerequisite for app development. The no-code/low-code tools era has firmly taken root, empowering users to create a wide range of applications without writing a single line of code. Whether you’re looking to bring your personal project to life or launch a brand-new SaaS product, Tenten has diligently explored the world of no-code app builders and presents our top seven picks for 2023.
The Leading No-Code App Builder Platforms
1. Softr – Ideal for Beginners
- Softr is perfect for those taking their first steps in app development.
- Boasts a user-friendly interface and a plethora of helpful templates.
- Some limitations in advanced logic capabilities.
- Explore Softr
2. Bubble – Balancing Power and Usability
- Bubble offers both power and ease of use.
- A visual programming language makes app creation accessible.
- Great for prototyping and MVP development.
- Discover Bubble
3. Glide – Creating Simple Mobile Apps
- Glide specializes in crafting elegant mobile applications.
- It provides ready-made designs and is exceptionally user-friendly.
- Limited in advanced logic capabilities.
- Check Out Glide
4. Draftbit – Crafting Powerful Mobile Apps
- Draftbit focuses on creating robust mobile applications.
- Offers extensive data source connections.
- Requires a steeper learning curve compared to some alternatives.
- Explore Draftbit
5. Bildr – Unmatched Flexibility
- Bildr excels in flexibility and visual building.
- Features a highly intuitive interface for arranging app components.
- Ideal for web apps, Chrome extensions, and progressive web apps.
- Discover Bildr
6. Backendless – Advanced Control Over Data and Infrastructure
- Backendless is for those seeking advanced control.
- It leans toward the technical side but offers flexibility.
- Robust documentation and an active community.
- Explore Backendless
7. FlutterFlow – Building Apps for Multiple Platforms
- FlutterFlow leverages the Flutter framework for multi-platform app development.
- Offers deep control over design and functionality.
- Steeper learning curve but immense power.
- Discover FlutterFlow
No-Code App Building Requirements
To create an app without code, most platforms follow a three-step process:
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Database Structuring: Define the database to store user inputs and data.
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Composing the User Interface: Design screens, buttons, and input fields.
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Building App Logic: Specify what happens when events occur, such as button clicks.
No-code platforms simplify programming, making it accessible to non-technical users and enabling professional developers to expedite basic feature development. Here are the criteria we used to evaluate each no-code app builder:
- True No-Code: No need to write HTML, CSS, or JavaScript.
- Ease of Use: Intuitive visual programming concepts.
- Help and Documentation: Extensive resources to aid learning and problem-solving.
- Flexibility: Versatility to build a wide range of apps.
- Community: Active forums and content creators for support.
Building Your No-Code App
Our testing involved creating a basic CRM app for each platform, seeking help when needed from forums, knowledge bases, or YouTube. We also explored each platform’s showcase and examined apps built by users to assess flexibility and success levels.
It’s essential to remember that "no-code" doesn’t mean "no work." Be prepared to acquire new skills and embrace the mindset of a developer when using these tools.
If you’re looking to build an internal tool based on spreadsheets, consider exploring Zapier’s list of the best database-powered app builders.
Automation with Zapier Interfaces
Zapier offers an automation-first no-code app builder called Interfaces, currently in beta. It enables you to create web apps with landing pages, forms, Kanban boards, and chatbots. You can connect it to your data sources via Zapier Tables and automate processes across your tech stack.
Additional Advanced No-Code Tools
While these platforms are excellent for app building, you can enhance your app’s functionality with these complementary tools:
- Xano: A no-code backend-as-a-service tool that simplifies data storage and API endpoint creation.
- Algolia: Enhances app search functionality, particularly useful for handling large databases efficiently.
Get Started with No-Code App Building
Creating an app without coding should be an enjoyable journey. Now that you have an overview of our top no-code app builders for 2023, choose the one that aligns with your project and start experimenting. Consider creating two projects: one for your main app and another for testing and learning, helping you build your skills while maintaining a clean main project.
Happy app building!