12 Best MBaaS Software Shortlist
After a thorough evaluation, I've curated a list of the 12 best MBaaS software and summarized how each one addresses specific mobile development challenges.
- Apps Panel - Best for integrating native features swiftly
- Kuzzle - Best for real-time data synchronization
- Built.io Backend - Best for robust API management
- Kumulos - Best for comprehensive app performance analytics
- Parse - Best for open-source mobile development needs
- BaasBox - Best for secure data storage and retrieval
- GameSparks - Best for video game backend development
- Firebase - Best for easy scalability and user authentication
- Microsoft Azure Mobile App Service - Best for cross-platform development and integration
- Backendless - Best for codeless development and cloud hosting
- AWS Amplify - Best for rapid prototyping with AWS services
- Oracle Mobile Hub - Best for enterprise mobile app development and data management
Cloud computing has rapidly become a major driving force in the tech industry, and MBaaS providers are at the forefront of this revolution. They offer cloud services that manage all the server-side tasks, so developers can focus purely on the client-side features, significantly reducing time to market. This makes them a perfect fit for startups eager to launch their MVP or large enterprises needing to optimize their operations.
An MBaaS software is a bridge that connects your app with various cloud services, including databases, social media integrations, push notifications, and other backend functionality. I've seen firsthand how these tools can revolutionize your workflows and would encourage anyone in SaaS to explore the options.
What Is an MBaaS Software?
MBaaS, or mobile backend as a service, is a cloud-based model that provides developers with a way to connect their applications to backend cloud storage and APIs exposed by back-end applications while also providing features such as user management, push notifications, and social networking integration. Primarily used by mobile developers, MBaaS allows for quicker and more efficient app development by eliminating the need to manage servers and write backend code.
With its vast array of functions, MBaaS software serves as a vital tool in facilitating tasks such as data management, user authentication, notifications, and more. This, in turn, accelerates the app development process, allowing businesses to deliver better mobile experiences to their users swiftly and effectively.
The benefits are numerous, from speeding up the development of new features and managing permissions to reducing the load on your internal team. For companies developing in React Native or other frameworks, MBaaS is a boon that takes care of the heavy lifting of server management.
Overviews of the 12 Best MBaaS Software
1. Apps Panel - Best for integrating native features swiftly
Apps Panel is a flexible and powerful MBaaS solution designed to expedite mobile development tasks. It's built with a key focus on quick integration of native features, making it the go-to choice for developers who frequently work with native functionalities.
Why I Picked Apps Panel:
I chose Apps Panel for this list because of its unique approach to handling native features. In my experience, this focus sets it apart from many other MBaaS tools. Its capability to swiftly integrate native features significantly reduces the time and resources required for mobile development tasks, hence its standing as the best choice for such use cases.
Standout Features & Integrations:
Apps Panel provides an array of robust features, including real-time analytics, in-app messaging, and push notifications, all tailored to improve user engagement. Its powerful user management system and cloud storage capabilities also streamline backend processes.
For integrations, Apps Panel connects with popular platforms like WordPress, Drupal, and PrestaShop, which can enrich your app's functionality and data connectivity.
Pricing:
From $15/user/month (billed annually)
Pros:
- Quick native feature integration
- Powerful user management system
- Robust third-party integration options
Cons:
- Steeper learning curve for beginners
- Pricing could be a deterrent for small teams
- Limited support for non-native features
2. Kuzzle - Best for real-time data synchronization
Kuzzle is a scalable and open-source IoT backend and MBaaS solution, renowned for its real-time capabilities. It provides developers with a flexible toolset to manage complex data structures and ensure effective synchronization between different systems in real time.
Why I Picked Kuzzle:
I chose Kuzzle for its exceptional handling of real-time data synchronization. With my comprehensive comparison, it stands out due to its open-source nature and focus on real-time data management. The real-time aspect is critical in today's mobile applications, and Kuzzle's capacity to manage this effortlessly makes it the best option for such use cases.
Standout Features & Integrations:
Kuzzle comes packed with features such as geofencing, pub/sub messaging, and real-time database management. Its data validation rules and role-based access control improve security and compliance. Regarding integrations, Kuzzle supports connections to various databases, including PostgreSQL, Elasticsearch, and Redis, improving the flexibility of data management and analytics.
Pricing:
Pricing upon request
Pros:
- Excellent real-time data synchronization
- Open-source platform allows for customization
- Variety of supported database integrations
Cons:
- Pricing details are not transparent
- Might be too complex for simple applications
- Requires technical expertise for setup and management
3. Built.io Backend - Best for robust API management
Built.io Backend is an efficient MBaaS platform that focuses on the needs of developers working with complex API structures. Its robust API management tools make it ideal for developers aiming to create, manage, and orchestrate APIs with high efficiency.
Why I Picked Built.io Backend:
I selected Built.io Backend for its dedication to comprehensive API management. Its unique capability to handle complex APIs is what sets it apart from the other tools I compared. API management is a crucial aspect of backend services, and Built.io Backend stands out as the best option for this task due to its robust feature set and dedicated functionality.
Standout Features & Integrations:
Built.io Backend provides features like serverless architecture, an intuitive API console, and the ability to create custom workflows. Additionally, it offers various data sources and webhook integrations that make it stand out.
The platform integrates with a wide array of services, including but not limited to, Salesforce, Slack, and Box, allowing developers to create more dynamic and connected applications.
Pricing:
From $25/user/month (billed annually)
Pros:
- Comprehensive API management capabilities
- Offers serverless architecture
- Wide range of integration options
Cons:
- Costlier than some other MBaaS platforms
- The user interface may be complex for beginners
- Limited support resources available online
4. Kumulos - Best for comprehensive app performance analytics
Kumulos is a robust MBaaS platform designed to streamline mobile application management. Its extensive feature set, particularly geared towards app performance analytics, makes it an ideal solution for developers and businesses aiming for improved application performance insights.
Why I Picked Kumulos:
I picked Kumulos for its comprehensive focus on app performance analytics. While evaluating various MBaaS platforms, it became clear that Kumulos excels in providing detailed, actionable insights on application performance. I believe this makes it the best choice for developers and businesses keen on optimizing their apps based on user behavior and application performance data.
Standout Features & Integrations:
Kumulos boasts an array of features including crash diagnostics, automated reporting, and user behavior analytics. These tools equip developers with deep insights into their application's performance, aiding in data-driven decision-making.
Kumulos also integrates effectively with various third-party services like Zendesk and Intercom, enabling an improved user experience and efficient customer support.
Pricing:
Pricing starts from $50/user/month (billed annually)
Pros:
- In-depth app performance analytics
- Effective integration with customer support tools
- Crash diagnostics and automated reporting feature
Cons:
- May be complex for beginners to navigate
- Pricing might be high for smaller projects
- Less flexible than some alternatives
5. Parse - Best for open-source mobile development needs
Parse is a highly flexible, open-source Backend as a Service (BaaS) platform that is particularly well-suited for mobile application development. With its broad range of capabilities, developers can create, host, and maintain applications more efficiently, which makes it a suitable choice for open-source mobile development needs.
Why I Picked Parse:
I selected Parse for its noteworthy open-source nature and its focus on mobile development. When comparing different MBaaS tools, Parse stood out for its extensive customization options and its strong developer community. It is this flexibility and support that positions Parse as a top choice for those with open-source mobile development requirements.
Standout Features & Integrations:
Parse's key features include a user-friendly dashboard, cloud code functions, and a real-time database. These features facilitate efficient application development and management.
On the integration front, Parse provides software development kits (SDKs) for many platforms including iOS, Android, JavaScript, Flutter, and more, which facilitates cross-platform app development.
Pricing:
Parse is an open-source platform and hence, it's free to use.
Pros:
- Open-source with broad customization options
- Extensive platform-specific SDKs
- Robust developer community
Cons:
- May require more development skills than managed BaaS solutions
- Absence of direct customer support
- Some advanced features may require complex setup
6. BaasBox - Best for secure data storage and retrieval
BaasBox is an open-source, server-side solution that provides a comprehensive platform for application development. The platform is designed to allow developers to focus on the front end and rely on BaasBox for secure data storage and retrieval, making it ideal for projects where these capabilities are crucial.
Why I Picked BaasBox:
I picked BaasBox because of its exceptional focus on data security and the straightforwardness of its data storage and retrieval features. When determining which MBaaS platforms to recommend, I considered the degree of security provided and how well the tool handled data operations.
BaasBox stood out in these respects, offering a well-rounded platform with a strong emphasis on secure data handling, hence making it the best choice for secure data storage and retrieval.
Standout Features & Integrations:
BaasBox is equipped with a variety of notable features, such as its user and role management, which simplifies the process of controlling access to the app's data. It also offers a REST API and a server-side scripting feature for advanced customization.
BaasBox can be integrated with Android, iOS, and JavaScript platforms, making it flexible for cross-platform development.
Pricing:
BaasBox is an open-source tool, and it's free of charge.
Pros:
- Strong focus on secure data storage and retrieval
- Comprehensive user and role management feature
- Wide range of platform integrations
Cons:
- Learning curve for the initial setup
- Absence of a user-friendly GUI
- No direct customer support, relies on community support
7. GameSparks - Best for video game backend development
GameSparks is a cloud-based platform dedicated to providing a comprehensive backend solution for game developers. Its robust features and integrations are particularly suited to the specific needs and complexities of video game development, earning it the top spot for this use case.
Why I Picked GameSparks:
Choosing GameSparks for this list was a decision driven by its specialization in video game development. In my judgement, the platform stands out from the competition due to its dedicated game services and scalable multiplayer capabilities.
I determined it to be the optimal solution for video game backend development as it provides a range of features explicitly designed to handle the unique challenges of creating and managing online games.
Standout Features & Integrations:
GameSparks offers an array of impressive features like player authentication, social features, multiplayer matchmaking, and leaderboards. Additionally, its Cloud Code feature allows for server-side logic.
As for integrations, GameSparks can work with a multitude of platforms such as Unity, Unreal, Android, iOS, and more, providing flexibility in game development.
Pricing:
Pricing for GameSparks starts at $299/month (billed annually), which provides access to all core features, analytics, and standard support.
Pros:
- Focused on game development needs
- Wide range of integrations with game development platforms
- Scalable multiplayer capabilities
Cons:
- Pricing can be steep for small developers or hobbyists
- May be too complex for simple games
- Customer support can be slow at times
8. Firebase - Best for easy scalability and user authentication
Firebase is a leading backend-as-a-service platform for serverless Android, iOS, and web app development. The platform's core strengths lie in its scalability and robust user authentication, making it a top choice for these specific needs.
Why I Picked Firebase:
In selecting Firebase, I was particularly struck by its comprehensive suite of services, most notably its real-time database and user authentication functionalities. These features differentiate Firebase, and its capabilities to scale easily with increasing user demand are unrivaled in the field.
Consequently, I concluded Firebase is the ideal choice for developers who need to prioritize scalability and efficient user authentication in their applications.
Standout Features & Integrations:
Firebase offers a variety of features such as a real-time database, Firestore for more complex data structures, Firebase Authentication, Cloud Messaging, and Firebase Storage for storing user-generated content.
Furthermore, Firebase provides important integrations with other Google services like Google Analytics, Cloud Storage, and AdMob, which can further improve app development and user experience.
Pricing:
Firebase's pricing structure starts with a free tier for small-scale applications. The paid plan, Firebase Blaze, operates on a pay-as-you-go model and costs can vary based on usage. As such, the price per user per month is not fixed and could start from a few cents to several dollars depending on the resources used.
Pros:
- Easy to use with good documentation
- Comprehensive suite of services under one platform
- Real-time database capabilities
Cons:
- Limited querying capabilities in its real-time database
- Cost can quickly escalate on the pay-as-you-go plan with increased usage
- Can be difficult to migrate away from due to the proprietary nature of the service
9. Microsoft Azure Mobile App Service - Best for cross-platform development and integration
Microsoft Azure Mobile App Service is a comprehensive cloud platform that allows developers to build, test, deploy, and manage applications for any platform including iOS, Android, and Windows.
Given its robust cross-platform support and broad integration capabilities, it becomes a go-to solution for developers prioritizing these aspects in their projects.
Why I Picked Microsoft Azure Mobile App Service:
Upon examining various tools, I picked Azure Mobile App Service because of its wide-ranging capabilities, especially in terms of cross-platform development and service integration. What sets it apart is its strong commitment to compatibility and integration with other services, making it an excellent choice for developers who require a tool that excels in these aspects.
Standout Features & Integrations:
Azure Mobile App Service boasts features like the ability to build and deploy for any platform using a variety of web development languages, including .NET, Node.js, Java, Python, or PHP. It also includes out-of-the-box services like push notifications, user authentication, offline sync, and auto-scaling.
The tool provides key integrations with many other Azure services, including Azure DevOps for CI/CD, Azure Functions for serverless computing, and Azure Logic Apps for workflow orchestration.
Pricing:
Azure Mobile App Service's pricing begins from $14/user/month for the Basic tier (billed annually). This pricing does not include add-on costs for additional services.
Pros:
- Comprehensive support for different programming languages
- Robust integration capabilities with other Azure services
- Extensive scalability and reliability
Cons:
- Can be complex for beginners due to the broad range of services
- Costs can escalate quickly with additional services
- Requires a learning curve to fully leverage its capabilities
10. Backendless - Best for codeless development and cloud hosting
Backendless is a backend-as-a-service (BaaS) platform that enables developers to create applications without dealing with the backend coding. Its codeless nature, combined with robust cloud hosting facilities, makes it an ideal pick for developers who want to focus more on the front end and less on server-side concerns.
Why I Picked Backendless:
In deciding on a tool for this list, I selected Backendless due to its significant advantages in codeless development and cloud hosting. It's a unique proposition that stands out because it allows developers to accelerate their projects without getting tied up in backend complexities.
Standout Features & Integrations:
Backendless offers a visual development interface to create backend logic without coding. It also provides a user-friendly database, user management, and cloud code functions. Integration-wise, it works well with a variety of frontend frameworks such as Angular, React, and Vue, which can help developers streamline their overall development process.
Pricing:
Backendless pricing starts from $25/user/month for the Cloud9 plan. This does not include additional costs for exceeding usage limits.
Pros:
- Offers codeless backend development
- Robust and reliable cloud hosting
- Smooth integration with popular frontend frameworks
Cons:
- The user interface might be intimidating for beginners
- Limitations in the free plan can hinder large projects
- Additional costs for usage beyond the included limits
11. AWS Amplify - Best for rapid prototyping with AWS services
AWS Amplify is a development platform provided by Amazon Web Services (AWS) that enables developers to build and deploy scalable mobile and web applications quickly. Its deep integration with other AWS services and focus on rapid prototyping align well with its positioning as a top choice for creating prototypes in an AWS environment.
Why I Picked AWS Amplify:
I chose AWS Amplify for this list because of its excellent support for rapid prototyping within the AWS ecosystem. Its ability to leverage a host of AWS services, including authentication, APIs, storage, and analytics, distinguishes it from other tools. This makes AWS Amplify ideal for developers already embedded in or moving towards the AWS environment.
Standout Features & Integrations:
AWS Amplify has a feature-rich environment that includes Authentication, GraphQL, and REST APIs, Analytics, and more, all aimed at enabling fast prototype development. It integrates well with a range of other AWS services, like AWS Lambda for serverless functions and Amazon S3 for storage, creating a holistic development experience.
Pricing:
AWS Amplify uses a pay-as-you-go pricing model. The charges depend on the specific services used. For example, hosting prices start from $0.023 per GB served.
Pros:
- Excellent for rapid prototyping
- Deep integration with other AWS services
- Provides serverless functions
Cons:
- Pricing can be complex due to the pay-as-you-go model
- Steeper learning curve for developers new to AWS
- Can be overkill for smaller projects not requiring AWS services
12. Oracle Mobile Hub - Best for enterprise mobile app development and data management
Oracle Mobile Hub is a cloud-based, mobile-backend-as-a-service (MBaaS) offering from Oracle. It empowers enterprises to develop, test, connect, and manage their mobile applications and associated data effectively.
It's the tool of choice for enterprise mobile app development and data management due to its extensive features and Oracle's proven data management capabilities.
Why I Picked Oracle Mobile Hub:
In deciding on Oracle Mobile Hub, the first thing that stood out to me was its extensive suite of tools and features tailored to enterprise needs. Moreover, with Oracle's deep experience in data management, the platform shines when it comes to handling complex data requirements within a mobile app ecosystem.
That's why I think Oracle Mobile Hub is best suited for enterprise-level mobile app development and data management.
Standout Features & Integrations:
Oracle Mobile Hub provides robust application development tools like API Catalog, which simplifies the integration process with other systems. Other notable features include Mobile Analytics, which provides insights into app usage and performance. It integrates with other Oracle services like Oracle Database and Oracle Identity Management, ensuring a holistic enterprise solution.
Pricing:
The pricing for Oracle Mobile Hub starts from $101.00 per month (billed annually). This includes 20,000 API calls per month and 10GB of storage.
Pros:
- Comprehensive toolset for enterprise mobile app development
- Strong integrations with other Oracle services
- Good support for data management
Cons:
- More expensive than some other platforms
- May be complex for small-scale applications
- Limited third-party integrations
Other MBaaS Software
Below is a list of additional MBaaS software that I shortlisted, but did not make it to the top 12. They are definitely worth checking out.
- brainCloud - Good for comprehensive backend solutions
- Kinvey - Good for modernizing legacy applications
- AppDrag - Good for visual development and cloud hosting
- Back4App - Good for scalable backend services
- Appgyver Composer - Good for low-code app development
- CodeNgo - Good for app store distribution
- Apple CloudKit - Good for iOS app data storage
- Apigee - Good for full lifecycle API management
- DreamFactory - Good for auto-generated APIs
- PubNub - Good for real-time data streaming
Selection Criteria for MBaaS Software
In my quest for the best MBaaS software, I personally evaluated and tested numerous tools, focusing on specific criteria that I believe are fundamental for a solid MBaaS platform. These criteria revolve around the tool's core functionality, key features, and usability.
Core Functionality
The tool should enable you to:
- Automate backend processes: This eliminates the need for developers to write server-side code.
- Scale up: The software should handle increasing data loads and user numbers.
- Integrate with third-party services: Easy integration with existing systems and services is crucial.
- Provide data storage solutions: This includes user management, file storage, and database management.
- Offer real-time capabilities: Live updates and synchronization should be possible for shared data.
Key Features
The standout features I was looking for include:
- User authentication: This feature helps secure user data and offers personalized experiences.
- Push notifications: An essential feature for engaging users.
- Data modeling: Allows developers to structure and organize the application data.
- API console: This enables testing and debugging of backend APIs.
- Analytics: Gives insights into user behavior and app usage.
Usability
For the tool's design, ease of onboarding, interface, and customer support, I considered the following:
- User-friendly interface: This is particularly important for MBaaS platforms as it can significantly speed up the development process.
- Comprehensive documentation: Detailed guides and tutorials can ease the learning curve, especially for complex enterprise solutions.
- Robust customer support: Fast and reliable support is crucial in case of issues or queries.
- Low-code or no-code capabilities: This is particularly important for teams with limited coding expertise, as it allows them to build and customize applications without having to write extensive code.
- An efficient debugging environment: It's important to quickly identify and resolve any issues that arise during the development process.
Most Common Questions Regarding MBaaS Software
What are the benefits of using an MBaaS software?
The use of MBaaS software provides several benefits including:
- Simplified back-end processes: These tools automate common back-end processes, allowing developers to focus more on the front-end user experience.
- Scalability: MBaaS platforms typically offer built-in solutions for dealing with increasing user numbers or data loads, making it easier to grow your app.
- Cost-effective: By using an MBaaS, companies can reduce the cost and complexity of building and maintaining their own backend servers.
- Speed: MBaaS solutions accelerate the app development process by offering pre-built components and functionalities.
- Integration: Most MBaaS platforms come with built-in integrations for third-party services, providing connections with various tools and services.
How much does MBaaS software typically cost?
Pricing for MBaaS software can vary greatly depending on the functionality and the scale of use. Some tools offer free tiers or plans for smaller projects, with costs increasing as you scale up or need more advanced features.
What are the pricing models for MBaaS software?
There are several common pricing models for MBaaS software. Many offer a tiered pricing model, where you pay more for higher tiers that offer more capacity or features. Some operate on a pay-as-you-go model where you only pay for the resources you use. Others might offer a flat-rate pricing model, where you pay a single monthly or yearly fee for access to the software.
What is the typical range of pricing for MBaaS Software?
Pricing for MBaaS software can range from free for basic, limited use, up to several hundred dollars per month for enterprise-level solutions with advanced features and high-volume usage.
What is the cheapest and most expensive MBaaS Software?
At the lower end of the price spectrum, solutions like Firebase and Back4App offer free plans for small-scale applications. On the higher end, enterprise-focused solutions like Kinvey or Oracle Mobile Hub can cost several hundred dollars per month depending on the usage and features.
Are there any free MBaaS software options?
Yes, some MBaaS solutions offer free tiers or plans. These can be a good choice for small projects or for getting started with mobile app development. Firebase, Back4App, and AWS Amplify all offer free tiers, though these come with usage limitations that may require you to upgrade to a paid plan as your app grows.
How to choose the best MBaaS software?
The best MBaaS software for you depends on your specific needs and circumstances. Consider factors like the scale of your application, your budget, the specific features you need, the programming languages you're using, and the level of support you want. You may also want to consider the tool's ease of use, its integration capabilities, and reviews from other users.
Is it necessary to have coding skills to use MBaaS software?
While it can be helpful to have some coding skills when using MBaaS software, many of these tools are designed to be user-friendly and may offer codeless development options. These can be a good choice for those with limited coding knowledge. However, for more complex or custom functionalities, coding skills might be required.
More App Development Software Reviews
Summary
To wrap it up, choosing the right MBaaS software is a strategic decision that can significantly impact the efficiency of your app development process. It's not just about picking a tool that offers server-side operations; it's also about ensuring that it's suitable for your specific use case, budget, and skill set.
Key Takeaways
- Always consider the core functionality of the tool. The right MBaaS platform will automate back-end processes, scale to accommodate user growth, integrate with third-party services, provide data storage solutions, and offer real-time capabilities.
- Look out for key features that improve usability and functionality. User authentication, push notifications, data modeling, an API console, and built-in analytics can all significantly improve your development process.
- Usability matters. Consider the user interface, quality of customer support, documentation, and low-code or no-code capabilities. A tool that scores well on these fronts will likely provide a smoother and more efficient experience.
What Do You Think?
Finally, while I've strived to provide a comprehensive list of the best MBaaS software available, the tech industry is ever-evolving. There might be other great tools out there that I haven't discovered yet.
If you've had a positive experience with an MBaaS platform not listed here, please feel free to share it in the comments. I'm always eager to learn about and explore new tools to keep this guide as up-to-date and helpful as possible.