Betty Blocks, hugely favored by the low- and no-code development community, is a cloud-based app development platform. Specifically built for organizations of different sizes, Betty Blocks helps users create custom software applications without writing a single line of code.
While this platform is definitely worth trying, the list of no- and low-code apps isn't limited to Betty Blocks. Users have reported that the software's ongoing development makes it harder to use some features.
G2 users say that this app lacks undo functions and good versioning and documentation could be better. Others look for Betty Blocks alternatives because of the limited component set and customization.
So whether you are just seeking some alternatives to try or you faced one of the issues users shared about Betty Blocks, here is an overview of 3 best tools you can consider to replace the existing solution (and without compromising the end result!):
UI Bakery
UI Bakery, which landed in first place on this list, was intended primarily for small and midsize businesses. It offers affordable pricing, an application builder, support for workflows, and scheduled jobs. Even being low-code, UI Bakery supports multi-step application APIs, so it allows enterprises to develop complex business logic.
It has a drag-and-drop interface for building UI elements, supports custom JavaScript components, and offers a large template library that makes it faster for teams to kick off the project. Here is where you may want to start getting UI Bakery closer.
Pricing:
Free plan available. The standard pricing plan starts from $5 per user/month and $10 per developer/month when billed annually. The business plan starts at $10/month per user and $40/month per developer. Enterprising can request custom pricing based on their needs and scalability.
Key features:
- Integration capabilities: UI Bakery provides extensive integration capabilities, allowing users to easily connect to various data sources, APIs, and databases.
- Customization flexibility: This platform has a rich set of UI components and a JavaScript editor that enable users to write custom logic and interact with external APIs.
- Collaboration and workflow: UI Bakery offers robust collaboration features so team members can simultaneously work on the same project.
- Template library: for ease of use and increased speed, UI Bakery provides a vast template library for almost any need.
- Drag-and-drop builder: this tool allows users to use UI components through a visual drag-and-drop editor, making it perfect for those with no coding experience.
- AI assistant: UI Bakery offers an AI-based chatbot designed to assist in documentation or code generation.
Pros:
- Low price per developer and customized pricing for enterprises
- Multi-steps APIs
- Python support
- Pre-made components for quick development
- Suits both non-tech and seasoned users
- Large community
Cons:
- It may require a learning curve for some advanced features
- Lacks streaming support
OutSystems
OutSystems takes the second place in our top 3 picks. Well-known in the tech community, this low-code platform has robust features aimed at both small businesses and large enterprises. A comprehensive suite of tools for crafting complex applications, a focus on rapid development and easy deployment makes OutSystems a strong competitor to Betty Blocks.
OutSystems is favored by its full-stack development environment that supports building mobile, web and even offline apps. It is packed with an AI assistant and pre-built templates that significantly speed up development.
Pricing:
OutSystems has 2 pricing options, from $4,000 to $10,000. The platform also has a free trial.
Key Features:
- Full-stack development: OutSystems supports web and mobile app development with offline capabilities.
- AI-driven development: the tool offers an AI-powered assistant that speeds up coding, detects patterns, and suggests optimizations.
- Enterprise-grade security: this platform offers built-in security features, including encryption, authentication, and role-based access control.
- Scalability: OutSystems ensures enterprises can cover all their needs for highly scalable solutions.
- Integration options: users can integrate the tool with external databases, legacy systems, and third-party APIs.
Pros:
- Enterprise-level support and security
- AI-driven features for faster development
- Library of ready-made templates and components
- Supports complex application logic and workflows
Cons:
- It can be pricey, especially for smaller teams or startups
- The platform might be overkill for simple applications
- Requires some coding knowledge for advanced customization
Retool
Retool is a new low-code platform designed for users to craft internal tools quickly and efficiently. Offering a highly customizable interface allowing developers to build complex apps without reinventing the wheel, Retool is one of the leaders in the low-code domain.
Retool is particularly chosen for building dashboards, admin panels, and other internal apps that need to interact with various data sources. The tool's best feature is that it can connect to virtually any data source, such as databases, REST APIs, and GraphQL.
As a cherry on top, the drag-and-drop interface ensures ease of use for those with minimum knowledge, while custom JavaScript, CSS, and SQL queries allow users to tailor the end product as needed.
Pricing:
Retool offers a free plan with limited features. The team plan starts from $10 per standard user/month + $5 per end user. The business plan starts from $50 per standard user/month + $15 per end user. The pricing listed is when billed annually. Retool also offers custom pricing for larger enterprises.
Key features:
- Data source connectivity: Retool offers a rich set of data sources that you can connect including databases, APIs, and other data sources.
- Custom scripting: the platform supports custom JavaScript, SQL, and CSS for advanced customization.
- Pre-built components: Users can speed up development by using a comprehensive library of pre-built components, such as tables, charts, and forms.
- Collaboration tools: Retool ensures seamless collaboration teams to work together on the same project with real-time updates.
- Security and compliance: Offers role-based access control, audit logs, and encryption to ensure security.
Pros:
- Comprehensive list of data source integration options
- Affordable pricing for small teams
- Highly customizable with support for custom code
Cons:
- Not suitable for public-facing apps
- Requires coding knowledge for more advanced features
- Limited template library compared to some other platforms, like UI Bakery
Last thoughts
While Betty Blocks is a well-known no-code platform, several other platforms are worth trying or at least considering. UI Bakery, one of the most cost-effective and user-friendly solutions, will better suit those looking for quick development through a visual builder and template library.
OutSystems will be a great choice for teams with some tech knowledge who are seeking collaboration and custom scripting. Retool is a wild card for custom code solutions and those focusing on inner applications.
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