Bubble Burst: 12 Useful Alternatives to Bubble
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12 Bubble Alternatives Shortlist
I've scoured the no-code landscape, testing and evaluating tools to bring you the 12 best Bubble alternatives:
- Adalo - Best for intuitive app creation with a drag-and-drop interface
- OutSystems - Best for rapid development and deployment of enterprise-grade apps
- Webflow - Best for web design flexibility with visual CSS grid
- Wix - Best for beginner-friendly website building with extensive design templates
- Appian - Best for integrating business process management with low-code development
- Mendix - Best for collaborative development with its user-friendly visual modelling
- Dorik - Best for single-page websites with a minimalist design ethos
- Duda - Best for white label website building with client management tools
- Zapier - Best for automating workflows across multiple applications
- Thunkable - Best for creating native mobile apps without coding
- Carrd - Best for simple, responsive one-page sites with a lean setup
- Squarespace - Best for aesthetically pleasing website design with e-commerce capabilities
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Why Look for a Bubble Alternative?
Bubble is a no-code platform that democratizes software development, enabling entrepreneurs, creatives, and businesses to build web applications without needing to write code. It's perfect for those who want to quickly transform ideas into functional software without the need for technical expertise.
However, its one-size-fits-all approach may not cater to the specific needs of every user. For instance, some might be seeking more niche functionality, a different pricing model, or a tool that caters better to their specific industry or use case. That's where exploring alternatives to Bubble becomes essential.
Overviews of the 12 Bubble Alternatives
1. Adalo - Best for intuitive app creation with a drag-and-drop interface
Adalo is a potent no-code platform designed to streamline the mobile app development process. It's renowned for its intuitive drag-and-drop interface, which makes it an ideal choice for anyone looking to create apps with ease.
Why it's a good Bubble Alternative:
I selected Adalo for this list due to its strong emphasis on simplicity and user-friendliness. It truly stands out with its visually intuitive interface, which allows anyone, regardless of technical background, to create powerful apps. The rationale behind tagging it as "Best for intuitive app creation with a drag-and-drop interface" lies in Adalo's unique ability to demystify the app-building process. It allows the user to visually assemble the components of an app, making it an appealing alternative to Bubble.
Standout Features & Integrations:
Adalo's most remarkable features include its vast library of pre-built components and templates, the ability to add custom actions and databases, and the option to publish apps directly to the app stores. Adalo's integrations are impressive, too, including Stripe for payments, SendGrid for email services, and Airtable for database functionality.
Pricing:
Adalo's pricing starts from $50/user/month (billed annually). This plan offers unlimited apps and updates, with no Adalo branding.
Pros:
- Drag-and-drop interface simplifies app creation
- Extensive library of pre-built components and templates
- Allows publishing directly to app stores
Cons:
- Pricing could be prohibitive for smaller projects
- Lacks some advanced customization features
- Loading times can occasionally be slow
2. OutSystems - Best for rapid development and deployment of enterprise-grade apps
OutSystems is a high-productivity platform aimed at speeding up the development of enterprise-grade applications. Its prowess lies in facilitating quick development and deployment, which makes it particularly suitable for businesses in need of efficient application solutions.
Why it's a good Bubble Alternative:
I chose OutSystems for this list because it excels in providing robust, scalable solutions with a speed that's hard to beat. What sets it apart is its blend of speed and enterprise-grade capabilities, offering a holistic development environment. The reason I consider OutSystems as "Best for rapid development and deployment of enterprise-grade apps" is that it goes beyond being just a no-code platform. It caters to both professional developers and business users, and hence serves as a robust alternative to Bubble for more complex, enterprise-level needs.
Standout Features & Integrations:
OutSystems shines with its visual development approach, one-click deployment, and real-time performance dashboards. Additionally, it provides full-stack visual development for web and mobile apps. On the integration front, OutSystems can connect with any SQL or Oracle database, web service, or ERP, providing seamless integration with existing systems.
Pricing:
OutSystems pricing starts at $4,000/month, billed annually. This includes full-stack development and one-click deployment capabilities.
Pros:
- Enables fast, efficient application development
- Provides full-stack visual development capabilities
- Offers real-time performance dashboards
Cons:
- High pricing could be a barrier for smaller businesses
- Can be overwhelming for non-technical users
- Requires more learning and familiarity than some other no-code tools
3. Webflow - Best for web design flexibility with visual CSS grid
Webflow is a powerful tool that allows you to design, build, and launch responsive websites visually. It's incredibly user-friendly, catering to both novices and professionals and is especially acclaimed for enabling the creation of visually stunning websites.
Why it's a good Bubble Alternative:
I included Webflow in this list because it brings a unique blend of design and development into one platform. Its standout feature is its commitment to visually stunning outputs, which is often a crucial aspect for businesses looking to build an engaging online presence. That's why I consider Webflow "Best for visually stunning, responsive web design" - its interface allows users to manage the aesthetics of their website with pixel-perfect precision, making it a fantastic alternative to Bubble for those with a keen eye for design.
Standout Features & Integrations:
Webflow's visual CSS designer is a key feature that enables precise control over the website's look and feel. It also offers CMS and E-commerce capabilities, allowing for a diverse range of applications. Integrations-wise, Webflow syncs well with popular platforms like MailChimp for email marketing, Google Analytics for site statistics, and Zapier for automating workflows.
Pricing:
Webflow's pricing starts from $12/user/month (billed annually). This includes hosting and custom domain capability.
Pros:
- Visual CSS designer for precise design control
- Built-in CMS and E-commerce features
- Wide range of integrations for extended functionality
Cons:
- Learning curve can be steep for non-designers
- Limited built-in widgets compared to some competitors
- Higher-tier plans can get expensive
4. Wix - Best for beginner-friendly website building with extensive design templates
Wix is an intuitive, drag-and-drop website builder that enables users to create professional and visually appealing websites without any coding knowledge. Its platform is especially useful for small businesses, personal bloggers, and online stores.
Why it's a good Bubble Alternative:
I picked Wix because its simplicity caters to beginners and those who aren't tech-savvy. It's designed to make web creation as easy as possible, offering an extensive range of templates and intuitive design tools, making it the ideal choice for those just starting their website-building journey. Therefore, it stands out as "Best for beginner-friendly web creation."
Standout Features & Integrations:
Some of the most noteworthy features of Wix include its visually stunning templates, Wix ADI for automatic website creation, and its robust SEO tools. When it comes to integrations, Wix offers compatibility with a wide range of apps available in the Wix App Market, such as social media, analytics, and marketing tools, thereby enabling users to customize their websites to their exact needs.
Pricing:
Wix's pricing starts from $14/user/month. It provides different pricing plans tailored to different needs, from personal to business and e-commerce use.
Pros:
- User-friendly interface ideal for beginners
- Wide array of templates and customization options
- Strong SEO tools
Cons:
- Limited flexibility compared to more advanced platforms
- Can't switch templates after the site is live
- Higher-tier plans can be pricier than other platforms
5. Appian - Best for integrating business process management with low-code development
Appian is a comprehensive low-code platform that allows businesses to create complex, enterprise-level applications with minimal coding. The platform is designed to help organizations rapidly develop powerful and unique software applications that drive digital transformation.
Why it's a good Bubble Alternative:
In my selection process, Appian stood out because of its robustness and scalability. It is best suited for large corporations and businesses with complex needs; hence I concluded it is "Best for enterprise-level applications." Compared to Bubble, Appian offers enhanced data management, security, and scalability that large businesses require.
Standout Features & Integrations:
Some of Appian's critical features include drag-and-drop design, process modeling, rules engine, and real-time analytics. For integrations, Appian offers strong connections with various enterprise software systems such as SAP, Oracle, and Salesforce, allowing users to extend their existing software capabilities.
Pricing:
Appian's pricing is upon request, and they provide tailored plans based on the specific needs of an organization.
Pros:
- Suited for complex, enterprise-level applications
- High-level security and compliance features
- Robust integration capabilities
Cons:
- Pricing is not transparent
- Might be overwhelming for beginners
- Customization may require technical expertise
6. Mendix - Best for collaborative development with its user-friendly visual modeling
Mendix is a low-code development platform that provides a complete toolset for building, integrating, and deploying web and mobile applications. It's engineered to cater to both professional developers and non-technical users, which contributes to the platform's flexibility.
Why it's a good Bubble Alternative:
In choosing alternatives, Mendix particularly caught my attention because of its extensive capabilities for full-stack development. It offers a range of advanced features for building both the front and back end of applications, which justifies why I chose it as "Best for full-stack development." Its combination of flexibility and power distinguishes it from other platforms like Bubble.
Standout Features & Integrations:
Key features of Mendix include visual development tools, reusable components, and integrated debugging. It also supports multi-cloud deployment and native mobile capabilities. As for integrations, Mendix boasts robust connectivity with systems such as SAP, Oracle, and IBM, along with standard databases and web services.
Pricing:
The pricing of Mendix starts from $1,917/user/month (billed annually).
Pros:
- Comprehensive toolset for full-stack development
- Supports both web and mobile application development
- Strong integrations with various systems
Cons:
- High cost, especially for small businesses
- Has a steep learning curve
- Customization may require technical know-how
7. Dorik - Best for single-page websites with a minimalist design ethos
Dorik is a user-friendly website builder designed for creating and launching beautiful single-page applications. It offers a clean, intuitive interface and a collection of customizable templates that let users quickly design and deploy their sites.
Why it's a good Bubble Alternative:
I chose Dorik for this list mainly because it's an excellent tool for crafting single-page applications. Compared to other platforms, its focus on this particular type of web development makes it unique. This focus is why I consider Dorik as "Best for single-page applications."
Standout Features & Integrations:
Dorik provides a drag-and-drop builder, responsive design capabilities, and a range of ready-to-use blocks and templates. It also allows for custom CSS for those who wish to further personalize their designs. Regarding integrations, Dorik connects with a host of tools, including Google Analytics, Mailchimp, and Zapier, thus allowing you to add functionalities as per your requirements.
Pricing:
The pricing for Dorik starts from $7.5/user/month (billed annually).
Pros:
- Tailored for single-page application development
- Easy-to-use drag-and-drop interface
- Allows for custom CSS
Cons:
- Might be too basic for complex applications
- Limited scope for multi-page applications
- Dependency on integrations for additional features
8. Duda - Best for white-label website building with client management tools
Duda is a robust website-building platform, widely recognized for its collaborative and scalable features designed specifically for web design agencies and digital publishers. The platform offers capabilities for designing responsive and professional-looking websites without requiring advanced technical skills.
Why it's a good Bubble Alternative:
Duda caught my attention for its exceptional focus on web design agencies and digital publishers. It stands out due to its specialized tools and features that facilitate collaboration and client management. Thus, I've determined Duda to be "Best for web design agencies."
Standout Features & Integrations:
With Duda, users can leverage a drag-and-drop website builder, widget builder, and library of templates. The platform also offers client management tools, team collaboration features, and the ability to build personalized customer experiences. Duda integrates with a variety of other platforms, including Zapier, PayPal, OpenTable, and more.
Pricing:
Duda's pricing starts from $14/user/month, and this is for their basic plan (billed annually).
Pros:
- Tailored for web design agencies and digital publishers
- Includes team collaboration and client management tools
- Offers a widget builder for added functionality
Cons:
- Higher starting price compared to other alternatives
- No free plan available
- The learning curve for some of its advanced features
9. Zapier - Best for automating workflows across multiple applications
Zapier is an online automation tool that connects your favorite apps, such as Gmail, Slack, Mailchimp, and more. It can automate repetitive tasks without the need for coding or relying on developers to build the integration. Based on its high level of interoperability, Zapier is my pick for "Best for automating workflows between apps."
Why it's a good Bubble Alternative:
In selecting Zapier for this list, its broad integration capabilities and user-friendly approach to automation stood out. I've judged Zapier to be particularly strong at connecting different apps, which is why I believe it's the best for automating workflows between apps.
Standout Features & Integrations:
Zapier is designed with an easy-to-use interface that makes creating automated workflows, or "Zaps," a simple task. These Zaps can be set up to do things like sending automated emails, creating tasks in project management tools, or updating CRM records. Notably, Zapier integrates with over 2,000 apps, including common tools like Google Workspace, Slack, Trello, Asana, and more.
Pricing:
Zapier's starting price is $19.99/user/month when billed annually, which is their Starter plan.
Pros:
- Connects with a vast number of apps
- User-friendly interface
- Makes automating repetitive tasks straightforward
Cons:
- No free plan, only a limited free trial
- Costs can add up as the complexity of tasks increases
- Some advanced automations may require a learning curve
10. Thunkable - Best for creating native mobile apps without coding
Thunkable is a platform that enables anyone to build their own mobile apps. With a drag-and-drop interface and no need for any coding skills, Thunkable makes the app-building process accessible and manageable. Considering its user-friendly design capabilities, Thunkable is my choice for "Best for building mobile apps."
Why it's a good Bubble Alternative:
In determining this list, Thunkable stood out due to its dedicated focus on mobile app development, which differentiates it from other platforms. From my comparison, its easy-to-use, no-code environment for building mobile apps makes it an excellent alternative to Bubble.
Standout Features & Integrations:
Thunkable is equipped with numerous features to aid the design process, including an intuitive drag-and-drop interface and the ability to test your app in real-time. Importantly, Thunkable allows integration with a range of APIs, and various plugins, enabling users to add features such as Google Maps, camera functionality, and more.
Pricing:
Pricing for Thunkable starts from $22/user/month, which is their Pro plan. Note that this is billed annually.
Pros:
- Drag-and-drop interface makes building mobile apps easy
- Allows real-time testing of apps
- Provides numerous integration options
Cons:
- More complex functions may require some knowledge of coding
- Limited customization compared to traditional coding
- Some users may find the interface less intuitive than other platforms
11. Carrd - Best for simple, responsive one-page sites with a lean setup
Carrd is a platform specifically designed for creating beautiful and responsive single-page websites. It's particularly effective for landing pages, profile sites, or simple business websites, and its simplicity makes it best for those who want to create a clean, straightforward web presence.
Why it's a good Bubble Alternative:
Choosing Carrd for this list was quite straightforward - it offers something different. Its commitment to simplicity and the single-page format sets it apart. In my judgment, Carrd fills a niche need in an elegant way, making it a viable alternative to Bubble.
Standout Features & Integrations:
Carrd's features are all about crafting the perfect one-page site. It offers a wide array of responsive templates, customization options, and the capability to add forms and other interactive elements to your site. As for integrations, Carrd provides connections with popular third-party services, such as Google Analytics, MailChimp, and Stripe, to add functionalities to the site.
Pricing:
The pricing for Carrd starts at $9 per user per year (billed annually), which equates to about $0.75/user/month.
Pros:
- Focused and straightforward tool for creating single-page sites
- Wide range of responsive templates
- Useful integrations with popular services
Cons:
- Limited scope if you need to create multi-page websites
- Might lack advanced features found in more comprehensive web design tools
- Customization options might be inadequate for more complex designs
12. Squarespace - Best for aesthetically pleasing website design with e-commerce capabilities
Squarespace is a popular website-building platform known for its elegant and visual design templates. It's an ideal choice for creating visually stunning websites, portfolios, and online stores without needing to write a single line of code, which is why it is best for visually-driven websites.
Why it's a good Bubble Alternative:
In my opinion, Squarespace is a compelling Bubble alternative for several reasons. Its emphasis on aesthetic appeal and user-friendly design tools sets it apart, offering users a different approach to web creation. Moreover, I find its focus on visual content ideal for those who want to highlight images, artwork, or products.
Standout Features & Integrations:
Squarespace's key features lie in its impressive range of high-quality templates and drag-and-drop page builders, allowing users to create visually striking websites. Squarespace also integrates seamlessly with a range of other platforms and tools, including but not limited to Google Workspace, PayPal, and Instagram, facilitating various functions from email marketing to e-commerce.
Pricing:
The pricing for Squarespace begins from $12/user/month, but this is billed annually.
Pros:
- High-quality, visually appealing templates
- User-friendly design tools
- Good range of integrations
Cons:
- More costly than some alternatives
- Customization options may be limited for complex sites
- No free plan available
Other Bubble Alternative Tools
Below is a list of additional Bubble alternatives I shortlisted but did not make it to the top 12. Definitely worth checking them out.
- Shopify - Good for creating online stores
- Weebly - Good for beginners in web design
- WordPress - Good for content-heavy websites
- Appgyver - Good for developing enterprise-grade applications
- Glide - Good for building mobile apps from Google Sheets
- Betty Blocks - Good for building applications with no-code
- Tadabase - Good for creating web-based data-driven applications
- Retool - Good for building internal tools rapidly
- Unqork - Good for complex business application development
- Vinyl - Good for rapid multi-platform application development
Selection Criteria for Bubble Alternatives
I've had the opportunity to evaluate and try out dozens of no-code web development tools. Each of these tools has its unique strengths, and I've narrowed down the list to the ones that excel in core functionality, key features, and usability - aspects that I've found critical when choosing a no-code web development platform.
Core Functionality
No-code web development tools should enable you to:
- Create responsive web applications without coding
- Manage data sources and integrate with APIs
- Implement user authentication and permissions
- Design interactive interfaces with a drag-and-drop editor
Key Features
Key features to look for in no-code web development tools include:
- Visual Interface: This enables you to design applications without needing to write code. You should be able to drag and drop components, create user interfaces, and define functionality visually.
- Data Management: The tool should have robust data management features to handle data sources and databases and integrate with APIs easily.
- Authentication and Permissions: User management is crucial for many applications. The tool should provide options for managing users and defining roles and permissions.
- Integration Capabilities: Integration with third-party services, such as email providers, payment gateways, CRMs, etc., provides extended functionality to your applications.
Usability
In terms of usability, no-code web development tools should focus on:
- Ease of Use: Since these tools are aimed at people with no coding experience, they should have intuitive interfaces and a short learning curve.
- Onboarding Process: Comprehensive onboarding materials, tutorials, and examples are important to help new users get started quickly.
- Customer Support: Responsive and helpful customer support can be invaluable, especially for users who are new to web development.
- Community: A large and active community can provide assistance, share resources, and offer inspiration for what can be achieved with the tool.
People Also Ask
What are the benefits of using Bubble?
Bubble provides a plethora of benefits for individuals or businesses looking to develop web applications without diving into coding. These include:
- Visual Programming Interface: Bubble's visual programming interface allows users to design and develop web applications visually, making the process more intuitive.
- Robust Integration: Bubble can integrate with hundreds of third-party applications and services, making it more versatile in terms of functionality.
- Scalability: As your business grows, Bubble can easily handle increased user demand, making it a reliable choice for developing robust web applications.
- Full Customization: Unlike many other platforms, Bubble offers complete design freedom, allowing you to build applications that are tailored to your specific needs.
- Learning Resources: Bubble has a large community and numerous learning resources that provide support and guidance, which can be a great help especially for beginners.
How much does Bubble and its alternatives typically cost?
Bubble pricing starts at $29 per user per month when billed annually, making it a reasonably priced option for building web applications. The pricing for alternatives varies significantly, depending on the feature set and capabilities they offer. The price can range from free for basic tools to hundreds of dollars per month for enterprise-grade solutions.
What are the typical pricing models for these tools?
The typical pricing model for these tools is subscription-based, where you pay a monthly or annual fee for access to the platform and its features. The cost usually scales with the number of users, the complexity of the features, and the level of customer support.
Which are the cheapest and most expensive software in this category?
Carrd, with a starting price of $19 per year, is one of the cheapest Bubble alternatives. On the higher end of the spectrum, Betty Blocks is one of the most expensive alternatives, with pricing available only upon request due to its enterprise-grade features and capabilities.
Are there any free Bubble alternatives?
Yes, there are free Bubble alternatives available. For instance, tools like AppGyver and Glide offer free plans with certain limitations, which can be a good starting point for beginners or small-scale projects. However, for more advanced features and scalability, paid plans are recommended.
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Summary
In summary, Bubble is a powerful tool for building web applications without the need for coding knowledge. However, it's not always the right fit for every use case, which is where the listed alternatives come into play.
When deciding on an alternative, it's crucial to consider the tool's core functionality, key features, and usability. Look for a solution that aligns with your specific requirements and workflow. This could range from simple single-page applications, eCommerce platforms, complex enterprise-level applications, or even platforms specializing in mobile app development.
Key Takeaways:
- Understand Your Needs: Before choosing an alternative, it's essential to define your needs and goals. Whether it's easy-to-use drag-and-drop interfaces, rich integrations, or specific industry-focused solutions, knowing what you need will guide your decision.
- Consider the Cost: Pricing varies widely among these tools, so it's crucial to evaluate what you're getting for your investment. Remember to look for a solution that offers the right balance of cost and functionality for your budget.
- Look at Long-Term Value: Consider not just the immediate needs but also long-term value. Factors such as scalability, support, community, and learning resources can greatly influence the value you get from your chosen platform over time.
What do you think?
What do you think about these Bubble alternatives? Each has its own strengths and use cases, and the best choice largely depends on your specific needs and objectives. But, of course, the world of no-code and low-code development is vast and rapidly evolving, so there may be other fantastic options out there.
If you're using or are aware of a great tool that I missed, please let me know. Your suggestion could help other readers find their ideal solution.