Have you heard the shocking news? Building an amazing no-code app with Bubble.io might now cost up to 100 times more than before! This jaw-dropping price hike due to the new Workflow Units pricing model has left many users scrambling to find the best Bubble alternatives.
Are you one of those people who are stunned and wondering what to do next?
Bubble.io has been a game-changer for many people looking to build apps and prototypes without learning to code. It’s been a lifesaver, allowing tech enthusiasts to create the next big thing.
But now, with the new pricing making it much harder to build affordably, it seems like a major roadblock for a lot of folks.
Thankfully, we’ve got your back with a great list of top platforms that are similar to Bubble. Although, some of them may not be exactly cheap either, at the very least their pricing is clear and upfront!
It’s super important to know all your options in this fast-moving world of app development. With Bubble.io becoming a lot more expensive for many users, picking the right alternatives is more important than ever.
So, come along as we take you on a fantastic journey to explore the top best Bubble alternative options out there, ensuring that you stay one step ahead of the game
Contents
- 1 About The New Pricing of Bubble.io
- 2 My Top Pick For The Best Bubble Alternatives: FlutterFlow and Wappler
- 3 1) Adalo (Beginner Friendly No-Code Platform)
- 4 2) Flutterflow (Mobile App Focus Builder)
- 5 3) Bravo Studio
- 6 4) Retool
- 7 5) Draftbit
- 8 6) Wappler
- 9 7) n8n
- 10 8) Reify
- 11 9) Rulyapp
- 12 10) Sap Build Apps
- 13 11) Drapcode
- 14 12) Weweb
- 15 13) Glideapps
- 16 14) Bildr
- 17 15) Noodl.Net
- 18 16) Sktch
- 19 17) Appmaster
- 20 18) Xano
- 21 19) Dittofi
- 22 Conclusion
About The New Pricing of Bubble.io
Hold on to your seats, folks, because we’re about to dive into the nitty-gritty of Bubble’s new pricing model.
Yes, that’s right, the one that has left everyone scratching their heads and frantically searching for alternatives.
Let’s break down the details of this ridiculous pricing structure that has taken the no-code world by storm.
Goodbye Affordable Plans, Hello Workflow Units
Bubble.io previously offered different plans catering to various needs, starting at $29/month for the Personal plan. Now, they’ve introduced “Workflow Units” (WU), causing confusion and frustration.
Old Pricing:
| Plan | Price | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Personal | $29/month | Core platform, API, custom domain, etc. |
| Professional | $129/month | 10 server capacity units, 15 app-editors, 20 dev versions, etc. |
| Production | $529/month | 10 server capacity units, 15 app editors, 20 dev versions, etc. |
New Pricing:
| Plan | Price | Workflow Units |
|---|---|---|
| Start | $32/month | 175k WUs |
| Growth | $134/month | 250k WUs |
| Team | $399/month | 500k WUs |
While the price increase might not seem substantial, WU consumption can quickly add up. For example, my app with only 14 users could consume 560,000 WUs in 30 days, raising the cost from $29 to $90 per month. Imagine the expense for 100 users!
Understanding Workflow Units
WUs measure how your app consumes resources, such as a simple page load (To be frank WU the explanation on how to compute Workflow Units is still unclear as of the moment).
So, if your app goes viral and experiences a massive traffic surge, WU consumption soars, resulting in overage fees of up to $0.15 per thousand WUs. 1k WU’s would be easily consumed with just a few clicks on your app!
This new pricing structure is just not viable for many users anymore, particularly those just starting out or operating on limited budgets.
So, what’s next?
Don’t worry! We’re here to help you navigate the world of no-code app development with top Bubble alternatives that won’t break the bank. First up is Adalo, and we’ll introduce you to more options soon!
My Top Pick For The Best Bubble Alternatives: FlutterFlow and Wappler
Based on my test, the top alternatives to Bubble.io are now FlutterFlow and Wappler. Both of these options allow for human-readable code export, which is essential for owning your code and ensuring a more reliable app development experience.
Why Choose FlutterFlow and Wappler?
These platforms emphasize the importance of owning your code and moving away from the NoCode movement.
This shift allows you to take control of your app’s destiny and be taken seriously by investors who may have concerns about code accessibility and ownership.
Here’s a comparison table for the two alternatives:
| Platform | Code Export | Features |
|---|---|---|
| FlutterFlow | Human-readable | Easy-to-use, visual app builder, supports popular app frameworks, integrates with popular tools, and exports clean code |
| Wappler | Human-readable | Powerful visual app builder, supports various technologies, customizable components, and exports clean, editable code |
Keep in mind that Noodl was initially considered a top alternative, but due to their proprietary code export formula, which is not human-readable or editable, they have been ranked lower on the list. If they decide to implement real code export in the future, we will update our recommendations accordingly.
1) Adalo (Beginner Friendly No-Code Platform)
If you’re looking for a user-friendly alternative to Bubble, Adalo (www.adalo.com) might be the perfect choice for you. Though it has limited design abilities and its database might not be the most intuitive, this platform offers a simple way to build no-code apps without breaking the bank.
With its easy-to-navigate interface and affordable pricing model based on app actions, Adalo is an ideal option for those who are new to no-code app development or have budget constraints.
While using Adalo, you may encounter some challenges such as showing groups when something is clicked or adding conditional formatting. However, these limitations can be overcome with creativity and patience.
The platform offers an extensive library of templates and components that can help you achieve your desired look and feel for your app.
Additionally, as Adalo continues to grow and evolve, it’s likely that it will introduce new features and improvements in response to user feedback.
Despite its current limitations in design features and workflows, Adalo remains a strong contender if you want to build apps without code space due to its simplicity and affordability. As you gain experience using the platform, you’ll find ways to work around these drawbacks while still creating functional and visually appealing apps.
2) Flutterflow (Mobile App Focus Builder)
If you’re looking for a solid alternative to Bubble.io, FlutterFlow is definitely a platform worth considering. This no-code app builder allows you to create visually stunning and highly functional mobile applications without any coding knowledge.
The best part is that FlutterFlow focuses on mobile development (Android and IOS compatible) using the popular Flutter framework from Google, meaning your apps will have native performance and feel.
Some of the key features that make FlutterFlow stand out are:
- Design features
- Intuitive drag-and-drop interface
- Access to Material Design and Cupertino components
- Database
- Integration with Firebase Firestore for real-time data updates
- Support for cloud functions and authentication
While it might take some time to get accustomed to its interface, once you become proficient with FlutterFlow, you’ll find that it offers a robust set of tools for building top-notch mobile applications.
One significant advantage this platform has over Bubble is that users can export their code, giving them full ownership of their projects.
3) Bravo Studio
After exploring the possibilities of Flutterflow, it’s time to consider another potential alternative to Bubble: Bravo Studio. A platform designed with designers in mind, Bravo Studio presents a different angle for no-code app development that might just be the perfect fit for your needs.
Bravo Studio focuses on turning design prototypes into functional apps with ease. If you’re a designer looking to bring your ideas to life without diving too deep into databases and workflows, this tool could be the right one for you.
While it may not have all the features that traditional no-code developers seek, its unique approach to app development can still result in stunning and user-friendly applications.
4) Retool
Retool, is the saving grace for many no-code enthusiasts looking to build powerful applications without breaking the bank.
Imagine being able to create internal tools customized for your business needs without spending a fortune on development or sacrificing functionality. That’s where Retool comes in, offering an excellent alternative to Bubble.io and catering specifically to those who want to design and develop internal tools.
Retool is a game-changer for businesses of all sizes, as it enables you to quickly create custom internal apps using a drag and drop interface that requires no coding knowledge.
The platform provides numerous pre-built components and integrations with popular databases, APIs, and services, making it incredibly easy to connect your data sources and build powerful applications tailored to your specific requirements.
With Retool’s flexibility and extensive capabilities, you can finally focus on what matters – growing your business – while leaving the technical details in expert hands.
5) Draftbit
Moving on from Retool, let’s dive into another alternative for Bubble – Draftbit.
This platform offers an interesting option for those who are mainly focused on mobile app development. With its visually appealing interface and drag-and-drop features, Draftbit can be a great choice for anyone looking to build no-code apps without coding required.
Draftbit’s user-friendly design makes it easy to create functional and beautiful mobile applications with minimal effort. The platform provides a wide array of customization options, enabling you to design your app exactly as you envision it.
Additionally, with its built-in database management and workflow system, Draftbit ensures that you can efficiently manage your application’s data and logic without needing any coding knowledge.
However, one must bear in mind that Draftbit is primarily geared toward native mobile app development, which may not suit everyone’s needs or preferences.
Nevertheless, if you’re seeking an affordable alternative to Bubble specifically for mobile apps, Draftbit is definitely worth considering.
6) Wappler
If you’re looking for a powerful and intuitive no-code app builder, Wappler is an excellent choice. As a solid alternative to Bubble, it boasts impressive design features, a robust database, and seamless workflows.
While it may have a slightly longer learning curve than some other platforms, the benefits are well worth it. Once you’ve mastered the platform, you’ll be able to create stunning applications that rival those built with traditional coding methods.
One of the greatest advantages of using Wappler is its flexibility and control over your code. Unlike some other no-code tools that restrict access to the underlying codebase or limit customization options, Wappler allows users to export their code and truly own their projects.
This means you won’t be tethered to any single platform or service provider – giving you the freedom to take your app wherever your journey leads.
While Wappler’s pricing may not be as low as some other alternatives, the value it provides in terms of functionality and customizability more than makes up for it. Investing in this platform means investing in your project’s long-term success and scalability.
You can rest easy knowing that as your needs grow and evolve over time, Wappler will be there every step of the way to support you through each iteration of your app’s lifecycle.
Speaking of growth and evolution, another promising tool worth exploring is n8n, which offers its own unique set of features to support your app-building journey.
7) n8n
Although not an exact Bubble equivalent, this platform has its own charm and can be useful for those looking to integrate various tools and automate workflows without writing a single line of code.
n8n offers a visually appealing and intuitive interface that makes it easy to connect different apps and create custom workflows.
You’ll find a wide range of built-in integrations with popular services such as Slack, Trello, Google Sheets, and more.
The platform is also open-source which means you have the potential to customize it further if you have some coding skills or access to the developer community. N8n’s focus on automation may inspire you to rethink your app-building process and unearth new possibilities in streamlining tasks.
While N8n may not be the all-encompassing no-code solution like Bubble, it does excel in workflow automation making it an excellent choice for those who want a more specialized tool.
Its open-source nature adds an extra layer of flexibility that can be advantageous when tailoring your app’s functionality.
With nifty features and a user-friendly interface, N8n is certainly worth exploring as you navigate through the world of no-code app development.
8) Reify
It’s a lesser-known platform in the no-code app development space but offers a unique approach to building applications without writing any code. The platform boasts an innovative interface and user-friendly features that can help you create the app of your dreams with ease.
Reify provides a comprehensive set of tools for designing your application, setting up databases, and creating complex workflows. While it may not be as popular as other no-code platforms, Reify strives to offer a robust solution for those looking to build apps without breaking the bank.
However, it’s essential to note that the pricing for Reify might seem steep at first glance – you’ll need to pay $425 just to give it a try.
But even with this initial investment, many users have found Reify to be a worthwhile option.
9) Rulyapp
Oh, RulyApp, where do I begin? When you first stumble upon this promising no-code app builder, you might think it’s the answer to your prayers. But as they say, not everything that glitters is gold.
Although RulyApp does offer a few features that may be useful for some developers, it falls short in many areas when compared to Bubble.io. However, don’t let this discourage you! There are plenty of other great alternatives out there.
- Design Features: RulyApp’s design practices are quite outdated and score a low 1/10.
- Database: With only basic capabilities, the database functionality gets a measly 2/10.
- Workflows: Similarly, the workflow options provided by RulyApp are limited and earn just 2/10.
While RulyApp may not be the best option for replacing Bubble.io in your toolkit, there are other fantastic alternatives to consider.
10) Sap Build Apps
SAP Build Apps is another potential alternative to Bubble.io for no-code app development. While it may be geared more towards enterprise solutions, it does have a lot to offer for those who are willing to explore its features and capabilities.
The platform boasts a rich variety of pre-built templates and components that can help you get started with your app idea in no time.
One thing worth noting about SAP Build Apps is its seamless integration with other SAP products, making it an ideal choice if you’re already using other tools from their ecosystem.
This can simplify your workflow and ensure data consistency across the board.
Moreover, the platform offers robust security measures to protect your apps and user data, which is always a plus point when considering any no-code solution.
While SAP Build Apps might not be the most budget-friendly option out there, especially for small businesses or individual developers, it’s still worth giving a shot if you’re seeking powerful capabilities and advanced features in your no-code app building journey.
That being said, there are other alternatives that cater specifically to smaller budgets without compromising on quality or functionality – one such example being Drapcode.
So let’s dive into what Drapcode has to offer as we continue exploring these fantastic Bubble.io alternatives!
11) Drapcode
Moving on from SAP Build Apps, let’s take a look at another alternative to Bubble.io: Drapcode.
Drapcode is an open-source website builder that offers some promising features for creating no-code apps without breaking the bank.
While it may not be as polished or feature-rich as some other options, it could still be worth considering for your next project.
Here are four reasons why you might want to give Drapcode a try:
- Open-source platform: Unlike many other no-code app builders, Drapcode is based on the open-source GrapesJS framework. This means you can take advantage of a large community of developers and resources to help improve and expand the tool.
- Easy-to-use design: With its drag-and-drop interface, you can quickly create visually appealing apps without needing any coding knowledge.
- Customizable workflow system: Although the workflow system in Drapcode may seem complicated at first glance, with some practice and experimentation, you’ll find it quite flexible and capable of handling complex operations.
- Affordable pricing: If you’re working on a tight budget, Drapcode’s pricing plans are more accessible compared to other popular website builders.
Despite its limitations in terms of design features, database management, and workflows, Drapcode might just offer what you need for simple projects or quick prototypes.
12) Weweb
WeWeb may not be the most feature-rich option out there, but it’s still worth considering for those who are just dipping their toes into the world of no-code app building. This platform offers a sleek and user-friendly interface that makes creating visually appealing apps a breeze, even for beginners.
While it does lack some advanced features found in other alternatives, WeWeb might be just what you need to get started without feeling overwhelmed.
One of the main drawbacks of WeWeb is its lack of a database system, which limits the scope of the apps you can create on this platform.
However, if your primary goal is to create simple web applications or prototypes that don’t require complex data management, WeWeb could serve as an excellent starting point.
The pricing model might seem steep at $2.5 per user per month, but it’s important to remember that this fee covers access to all features and support services offered by the platform.
13) Glideapps
GlideApps, is a familiar face in the no-code app development world!
As an alternative to Bubble, GlideApps has made a name for itself by allowing users to create beautiful and functional mobile apps with ease.
With its user-friendly interface and seamless integration with Google Sheets, it’s no wonder so many people have turned to this platform for their app creation needs.
One thing that sets GlideApps apart is its focus on providing visually-appealing templates and components that make your app stand out from the crowd.
Its design features are truly top-notch, making it easy to create an app that not only works well but looks great too.
However, it’s important to note that while GlideApps excels in design capabilities, its database and workflow functionalities may not be as robust as those found in Bubble.
But don’t let this deter you from giving GlideApps a try! For certain projects or for those who prioritize aesthetics and simplicity over complex workflows, this platform can be the perfect fit.
And who knows – perhaps in 2023, they’ll surprise us all by expanding their features even further. Now, let’s shift gears a bit and explore what web has to offer as another potential alternative to Bubble.
14) Bildr
Continuing our search for the best Bubble.io alternatives, we stumbled upon Bildr, a platform that shows great potential in the no-code app building space.
While its design features and overall experience score high marks, it does have some downsides that you should be aware of before diving headfirst into this tool.
However, if you’re looking for an alternative to Bubble, Bildr is worth considering.
Here’s what sets Bildr apart from other no-code platforms:
- Intuitive User Experience: With a 7 out of 10 rating for design features, users find it easy to navigate and create visually appealing apps.
- Database Capabilities: Scoring a 6 out of 10 in this category, Bildr allows you to store data efficiently but may not be as powerful as some other options.
- Workflows: Although workflows can be challenging to set up (earning a 6/10), once everything is in place, your app will run smoothly.
- Pricing: The major drawback of Bildr is its pricing model (3/10). Since you don’t own the code, it can become expensive over time.
Despite these drawbacks, Bildr remains a solid option when searching for a no-code app builder. The user-friendly interface and database capabilities are sure to please even the most discerning app creators.
If you’re willing to invest time in learning how to set up workflows and can make peace with the pricing structure, then give Bildr a try!
15) Noodl.Net
Moving on from WeWeb, let’s dive into another fantastic alternative to Bubble – Noodl.net.
This no-code platform is a game-changer for those seeking an intuitive and powerful tool that offers control over their code. With its impressive design features, database capabilities, and workflow management, Noodl is truly a worthy contender in the no-code app development space.
What sets Noodl apart from other platforms is its ability to export real React code, giving users ownership and control over their creations.
Although the exported code is minimized and not human-readable, this aspect puts Noodl ahead of Bubble in terms of flexibility.
The pricing for owning the code starts at $370/month, which is quite reasonable compared to other platforms in the market. If owning the code isn’t a priority for you, then there are even more affordable plans available.
As I explored Noodl’s offerings through their engaging tutorials, I found myself genuinely enjoying the experience and appreciating how user-friendly it was.
16) Sktch
Moving on from Bildr, let’s explore another alternative to Bubble.io: Sktch. Sktch prides itself on being a user-friendly no-code platform that allows you to create powerful web applications without any coding experience.
With its intuitive drag-and-drop interface and extensive library of pre-built components, you can easily bring your app ideas to life in no time.
One unique feature of Sktch is its pricing model, which charges based on user visits. This might be ideal for some businesses, but it could also become costly for others.
To help you decide if Sktch is the right fit for your needs, here’s a comparison table showing its features alongside those of Bubble.io and Bildr:
| Feature | Bubble.io | Bildr | Sktch |
|---|---|---|---|
| Drag-and-Drop | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Pre-built Components | Extensive | Limited | Extensive |
| Pricing Model | Subscription | Pay-as-you-go | Per User Visit |
| Exportable Code | Limited | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Platform Ownership | Not Applicable | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
While Sktch stands out with its extensive component library and user-friendly interface, it does come with certain drawbacks. The per-user-visit pricing model might not suit everyone’s budget or business model.
Additionally, users do not own the code generated by the platform. That said, if these concerns are not deal-breakers for you, then Sktch could still be an excellent choice as an alternative to Bubble.io.
17) Appmaster
Appmaster is another intriguing alternative to Bubble for those looking to develop no-code applications. From the moment you sign up, you’ll notice that Appmaster offers a vast array of tools and features that can help bring your app idea to life.
The platform’s interface may seem a bit overwhelming at first, but with some patience and exploration, you’ll find it’s a powerful solution for creating complex applications without needing any coding knowledge.
One of the standout aspects of Appmaster is its robust database and workflow systems. While they may seem daunting initially, once you’ve spent some time working with them, you’ll be able to build intricate apps that cater to your needs perfectly.
Although the pricing may be on the higher side compared to other alternatives, it’s important to keep in mind that this is a trade-off for the level of sophistication offered by this platform.
18) Xano
Xano – the platform that almost brought me to tears with its complexity! But let’s not dwell on the past and instead focus on how it can be a viable alternative to Bubble.io in 2023.
With Xano, you have the option to create a separate front end (where users interact) and a separate back end (that saves data). This might seem appealing if you want more control over your app’s design and structure.
However, there’s a major catch: you don’t actually own the backend, which is arguably even more important than the front end.
Now, I know what you’re thinking: ‘Why would I choose Xano if I don’t own my app’s heart?’ It’s true that this seems like a drawback initially, but hear me out.
If you’re starting with no-code development or need a quick solution for an MVP (minimum viable product), Xano provides an easy way to get started without breaking the bank.
Sure, it may not be ideal for long-term scalability or full ownership of your project, but it could give you just enough flexibility and customization options while keeping costs low.
However, as your business grows and your needs evolve, connecting WeWeb and Xano might not be the wisest decision since both platforms lock you in similar ways as Bubble does.
So before jumping into this option wholeheartedly, take some time to consider whether it truly aligns with your goals and vision.
If not, fear not – there are other alternatives available like Dittofi that offer unique features and benefits worth exploring!
Let’s dive into what makes Dittofi stand out from the rest…
19) Dittofi
As we transition from Xano, another fantastic alternative to Bubble.io is Dittofi. Dittofi offers an impressive visual app builder that enables users to create enterprise-grade apps up to six times faster than writing code by hand.
It’s perfect for those who are looking for a no-code solution without breaking the bank.
Dittofi provides a range of features, including:
- Design Studio: A user-friendly interface for designing your app.
- Code Generator: Automatically generates clean and semantic HTML5, CSS, React/Redux code from your designs.
- Launch Apps: Deploy your app seamlessly with secure and scalable hosting powered by Amazon Web Services.
What sets Dittofi apart from other no-code platforms is its ability to build full-stack apps without any restrictions on user count, data usage, or features.
Additionally, you can export and own your generated code at any time, giving you greater control over your intellectual property.
This flexibility makes it a highly attractive option for businesses seeking a more cost-effective way to develop their apps while still maintaining ownership.
One noteworthy success story comes from City Row, which used Dittofi to shorten its app development timeline by 12 months and save hundreds of thousands of dollars.
If you’re searching for an alternative to Bubble.io that allows you to build enterprise-level apps quickly without compromising on quality or control, give Dittofi a try.
Their extensive collection of online training materials and in-person training sessions make learning the platform a breeze, ensuring you can launch your next great idea in no time.
Conclusion
Exploring Bubble.io alternatives can open up a world of possibilities for small businesses and individual developers.
It’s essential to carefully weigh the pricing plans, limitations, customer support, app maintenance tools, and integration options offered by each platform to find the best fit for your specific needs.
From personal experience, trying out these alternatives has not only expanded my knowledge but also enabled me to discover more efficient ways to build no-code apps without breaking the bank.
Keep experimenting and happy building!