12 top low code app builders open source and self-hosted in 2024

Are you looking to create your own app without the need for extensive coding knowledge?

In 2024, the you can use open source or self hosted low-code app builder scene is booming with innovative options for all skill levels.

Quick recap of low code tools

1. UI Bakery: A self-hosted, drag-and-drop low code platform
2. ToolJet: Drag-and-drop open source software for building custom internal tools with JavaScript and Python support.
3. Budibase: A platform for creating apps by merging databases, spreadsheets, and APIs, and hosting them on-premise with Docker and K8s.
4. Appsmith: Offers rapid development and deployment of internal apps with drag-and-drop widgets and inline JavaScript customization.
5. NocoDB: Turns databases into a smart spreadsheet interface, allowing for basic operations and access to different view types.
6. Node-RED: A browser-based, flow-editing tool on Node.js for connecting hardware devices, APIs, and online services in IoT projects.
7. Joget: Combines no-code/low-code development with workflow management for quick, secure application development and deployment.
8. Convertigo: An enterprise-grade low-code/no-code platform for building complex multi-device applications with reduced investment costs.
9. Saltcorn: A fast, free, open-source low-code solution that enables users to create web and mobile applications with a drag-and-drop builder.
10. Jmix: Utilizes Spring Boot and Vaadin Flow for Java framework-based enterprise application creation with extensive data model and UI tools.
11. OpenXava: Leverages Java to simplify business application development by focusing on business logic over coding.
12. Rintagi: Focuses on stakeholder management and security, offering an app store with ready-made applications for customizable app development without extensive coding.

UI Bakery

UI Bakery is a self-hosted low-code platform built for developers with enough components for building mobile and web apps like customer portals and admin panels. The platform aims at minimizing time consumption and augmenting productivity by offering a drag-and-drop interface with over 75 components, thus, reducing or eliminating the need to learn complex CSS and JS frameworks.

UI Bakery goes even one step further by incorporating an easy to understand user interface. The software integrates with over 30 native sources including SQL, NoSQL databases, HTTP APIs, and other tools. Introducing the method of creating and debugging data without too much hassle through UI Bakery Actions intuitively. It is possible to add conditions, iterate through data, or debug using UI Bakery Actions. The platform as well support Branch version control and releases through Git integration, which make advice development and work flow easier.

UI Bakery Features

• Self-hosted
• Drag'n'drop responsive UI
• Connect data easily
• Code and no-code business logic
• Control versions and releases
• Deploy with a single click

UI Bakery Pricing

• Free: $0
• Self-hosted plan available

UI Bakery Ratings and Reviews

• G2: 4.9/5 (20+ reviews)
• Capterra: 4.8/5 (10+ reviews)

Try UI Bakery for free

ToolJet

ToolJet is a multi-functional open source low code platfrom which gives users a capability to produce interface components that are complex and flexible even without specialized developers. It has the features of smooth integrations, a flexible and drag-and-drop database, and the functionality to perform both routine & complex business operations, ToolJet brings the comfort of building custom internal tools.

The developers can implement JavaScript and Python for the customized logic and data transformation and reuse the React components with ease in addition to that. Security, scalability and multi-environment support are a few of the more enhanced features of ToolJet for enterprises. These ensure that the enterprise has a secure and scalable low-code solution for its critical applications.

ToolJet Features

• Integrations
• Lightning Fast Development
• Connect effortlessly to your data sources
• Build scalable databases
• Automate Workflows
• Supports JavaScript & Python
• Import React components
• Secure and Scalable Low-Code Solution for Enterprises

ToolJet Limitations

• Lack of information on security features
• Limited support for advanced data transformations
• Potential learning curve for users unfamiliar with low-code platforms

ToolJet Github

⭐️ 26173 stars on GitHub
https://github.com/ToolJet/ToolJet

ToolJet Ratings and Reviews

• G2: 4.7/5 (17+ reviews)
• Capterra: 4.8/5 (79+ reviews)

Budibase

Budibase is a comprehensive open source low code platform that enables IT department to create apps without involving external source of data and also connecting them with existing workflows.

The users are able to merge databases, spreadsheets, and API’s together, as well as, run locally on-premise through the Docker and K8s. In addition, they can create management apps, portals, form approval among other administrative functions for custom business needs.

Budibase enables you to create app schemas from data and forms without coding, use more than 40 pre-built components out of the box, and render the apps on different devices expediently. That way, it makes it possible for the automation of processes and the subsequent simplification of inputs.

Engineers can save their time by the low-code platform, Budibase, supporting various databases, REST APIS, Docker and Kubernetes. It is because the tool gives access to building forms, portals, and approval apps.

Budibase Features

• Connect any database, spreadsheet or API
• Self-host on premise with Docker and K8s
• Create powerful apps and workflows from any datasource
• Management Apps
• Portals
• Approval flows
• Forms
• Admin panels

Budibase Limitations

• Limited customization options
• Possible security concerns with self-hosting
• Reliance on user-friendly interfaces over advanced features

Budibase Github

⭐️ 20623 stars on GitHub

https://github.com/Budibase/budibase/stargazers

Budibase Ratings and Reviews

• G2: 4.4/5 (10+ reviews)
• Capterra: 4.8/5 (10+ reviews)

Appsmith

Appsmith is a open source low-code application with a lot of contributors enabling business to rapidly develop and deploy efficient internal apps. The features that include the drag-and-drop widgets, in-line JavaScript customization, and integration with diverse databases and APIs speed up the development and maintenance of applications 10X times quicker. In addition, the platform provides excellent security features — 256-bit encryption and secure authentication protocols.

Through Appsmith, businesses can help themselves to automate operations and create different administrative tools, including dashboards, admin panels and database GUIs. The open source nature of the platform is transparent, collaborative among communities and – also – expanding partner ecosystem. Users deploy Appsmith firstly to the cloud or on-premise with an option of multiple installations and well-documented support materials.

Appsmith Features

• Low-code application platform
• Connect to any data source
• Native integrations
• Drag and drop UI widgets
• Customize and control with code
• Git-based version control
• Built-in JS editor
• Extend existing apps

Appsmith Limitations

• Limited customization options
• Potential learning curve for new users
• Reliance on external data sources for functionality

Appsmith Github

⭐️ 31 080 stars on GitHub

https://github.com/appsmithorg/appsmith

Appsmith Ratings and Reviews

• G2: 4.6/5 (25+ reviews)
• Capterra: 5/5 (2+ reviews)
• Trustpilot: 3.6/5 (36309+ reviews)

NocoDB

NocoDB is an open-source tool that transforms various databases into a smart spreadsheet interface. It allows users to perform basic operations and access different view types like grid, gallery, form view, and kanban view.

The tool also offers fine-grained access control with roles, supporting collaborative and locked views. Additionally, NocoDB features an app store for workflow automations, integrating with chat platforms, email services, and storage options.

The project aims to make powerful computing tools accessible to internet businesses globally through a no-code interface for databases.

NocoDB is licensed under AGPLv3 and encourages contributions from the community.

NocoDB Features

• Rich Spreadsheet Interface
• App Store for Workflow Automations
• Programmatic Access
• Sync Schema
• Audit

NocoDB Limitations

• Limited database options (only supports MySQL, PostgreSQL, SQL Server, SQLite & MariaDB)
• Requires manual configuration for special characters input
• Limited integrations in the App Store compared to other platforms

NocoDB Github

⭐️ 41300 stars on GitHub

https://github.com/nocodb/nocodb

NocoDB Ratings and Reviews

• G2: 4.5/5 (17+ reviews)
• Capterra: 4.8/5 (33+ reviews)
• Trustpilot: 4.4/5 (10+ reviews)

Node-RED

Node-RED is a browser-based programming tool built on Node.js which is used to create such applications that respond to the current events by linking hardware devices, APIs, and online services. The platform is open source, low code builder which provides the flow editor in the form of a node-link graph and the deployment with a single click.

Like the lightweight runtime of Node-RED which can be installed on devices such as Raspberry Pi or in the cloud as per the need is. With Node's Standard modules repository containing nearly 225K modules, users can easily extend the platform by adding their own new nodes. Streams made in Node-RED are kept as JSON which allows for simple sharing of flow online through an online library. The tool is well supported by the community through the forums, Slack team, Stack Overflow and GitHub.

Initially developed by IBM, Node-RED is a visual (e.g graphing) development tool that enables users to connect hardware devices, APIs, and online services to the Internet of Things (IoT). Thi platform, being developed on Node.js, provides the browser-based flow editor aimed for building JavaScript functions. Node-RED now since version 0.14 has MQTT nodes that are TLS enabled. In 2016, IBM started the project named Node-RED as an open source project and gave it to OpenJS. With a noticeable adoption in industrial Internet of things (IIoT) and edge computing follow-up, tool is able to provide the desired capacity in real-time operations.

Node-RED Features

• Browser-based flow editing
• JavaScript functions creation
• Built-in library for saving functions, templates, or flows
• Social development with JSON storage and online flow library
• Various deployment options including locally, on devices, and in the cloud
• Flow-based
• Low-code
• Visual programming

Node-RED Limitations

• Limited support for complex programming logic
• Reliance on JavaScript programming knowledge
• Potential for security vulnerabilities due to online sharing of JSON files

Node-RED on Github

⭐️ 18 300 stars on GitHub

https://github.com/node-red

Node-RED Ratings and Reviews

• G2: 4.5/5 (22+ reviews)
• Capterra: 4.8/5 (4+ reviews)
• Trustpilot: 3.7/5 (1+ reviews)

Joget

Joget is an open source technology and brings together a no code/low code approach and workflow management for both architects and developers interested in building new applications that run in the cloud and migrating existing ones.

Joget DX 8 is a low-code platform which is secure and governed, allowing quick and easy development of applications and offer value to the business. Although Joget, enables users to create their first free app by usage of composable technology for a quick app making and continuous innovating.

The platform’s strong focus security, automated testing and security procedures are implemented it to improve data security and developer productivity. Moreover, Joget provides user interface (UI) tools for designing an exceptional experience, it has also white-label options in standalone solutions and core enterprise apps integration.

Those specific features like visual dev hub, marketplace and deployment hub allow users to make and run enterprise applications in a matter of minutes and using least amount of resources. The in-built future readiness of the platform includes integrated open AI, IoT and blockchain technologies that make it a multi-article tool for digitizing decentralized development applications.

Joget Features

• Speed up App Development Even Further
• Optimizing Security, Efficiency, and Quality Assurance
• Greater End-User Personalization
• Open Source + No Code/Low Code + Workflow
• Fits in Your Environment
• Trusted by Organizations of All Sizes
• Low-Code, High-Security
• Extensible Plugin Architecture

Joget Limitations

• Limited information on specific features and capabilities
• Lack of detailed customer testimonials or case studies to validate claims
• Potential complexity in migrating existing applications to a cloud-based infrastructure

Joget Github

⭐️ 500 stars on GitHub

https://github.com/jogetworkflow/jw-community

Joget Ratings and Reviews

• G2: 4.3/5 (43+ reviews)
• Capterra: 4.2/5 (22+ reviews)
• Trustpilot: 4.1/5 (18511+ reviews)

Convertigo

Convertigo platform is an innovative, enterprise-capable open-source Low-Code & No-Code platform designed to deliver top-notch results at a reduced investment cost. The businesses have the ability to create any app that they can though, simple mobile life work apps to complex multi-device transactional software might be just examples here. Since Low Code platform offered by Convertigo not only dramatically decreases the creation time and budget of the apps for different platforms and operating systems, but also simplifies the deployment process.

As the ultimate transparency and users-contribution features convertigo grant businesses with the complete independence not obliging them to stay and use their management tool. Our "Citizen" developers, who aren't developers of software, can be the dream team to create their own apps, in The no-code studio. Features like offline data storage, enterprise data connectors, workflow automation, and data security enable this to happen. Rather than using more typical IT processes Convertigo enable businesses (firms) to develop the required controls as well as to establish and assure their apps (applications) security.

With enclosed Convertigo’s Open Source Low Code platform, the key components are Convertigo Server that facilitate the components of back-end connectors, micro-services, offline data, and serving of Mobiles as well as PWA web apps. C’est Convertigo Studio un Eclipse-based IDE que les utilisateurs peuvent utiliser pour mettre à la pièce les micro-services de MBaaS et construire les interfaces d’utilisateurs de l’application en Mode low code ouvert. Convertigo SDKs can work together not only with native development tools build into Xcode and Android Studio, but also with third party or cross-platform tools. Convertigo Forms, which is a No Code App Builder designed for people without coding skills to create simple form-based apps.

Convertigo Features

• Open Source
• Low Code
• No Code
• Enterprise grade
• Multi-device support
• Accelerated application development
• Reversible Client Code
• Vendor lock-in solution

Convertigo Limitations

• Limited customization options compared to traditional coding
• Learning curve for users unfamiliar with Low Code or No Code platforms
• Dependency on Convertigo platform updates and maintenance

Convertigo Github

⭐️ 267 stars on GitHub

https://github.com/convertigo/convertigo

Convertigo Ratings and Reviews

• G2: 4.3/5 (3+ reviews)
• Capterra: 4/5 (4+ reviews)
• Trustpilot: 2.7/5 (7+ reviews)

Saltcorn

Saltcorn is a fast-paced , free and open source low code solution  that enables users to create and manage their web and mobile applications without knowing too much coding. Toolbox  includes drag-and-drop page building, relational database management, PDF generation, and email features, Saltcorn is a straightforward method for reducing business workload and data issues. On the top of these, the platform is equipped with simple pre-made themes for customization, making it easy to use and accessible to people from different technical backgrounds.

Existing web applications can be developed by the users with the defined relational data that allows flexible views, arrangement and data types without writing a single code. Saltcorn core code is distributed for installing in multiple platforms which are documented well for self-hosting option. We leverage technologies like PostgreSQL, Node.js, and Express to ensure that your database application can work cohesively and smoothly on the platform.

Saltcorn Features

• Drag-and-drop page builder
• Manage relational database
• Web and mobile apps
• PDF generation and emails
• Easy-to-use themes
• Automate simple business processes
• Build web applications based on relational data

Saltcorn Github

⭐️ 1400 stars on GitHub

https://github.com/saltcorn/saltcorn

Saltcorn Ratings and Reviews

• G2: N/A
• Capterra: N/A
• Trustpilot: N/A

Jmix

Jmix is an open-source Java framework that uses Spring Boot and Vaadin Flow to create enterprise applications.

It provides developers with essential features for building prototypes or full-scale solutions, including data models, access control, business logic, and intuitive UI tools.

Jmix further extends functionalities through business process automation, headless CMS, new business logic infusion, and CRUD application support, and at the same time offers pro developer tools which boost productivity.

TJmix is powerful but simple and has a user-friendly interface, incredible development speed, and a huge feature set which all end-up with an improved business production of all sizes is what users most loves it about.

The platform consists of Jmix Studio, a plugin for IntelliJ IDEA, for easier configuration of the project, data schemas, the migration of DB, and interface designing.

So, developers can get the source code from GitHub, modify and add to the framework, or buy commercial tools for their own use by individuals and businesses.

Jmix essentially simplifies data-centric application development workflows with data-centric capabilities in place for data security, audit trails, reporting, and business process management applications.

Jmix Features

• Modern open-source Java framework leveraging Spring Boot and Vaadin Flow
• Visual tools built into IntelliJ IDEA Community
• Ready-to-use “enterprise” features
• Everything is connected in a robust enterprise platform to maximize developer performance
• Ideal for building prototypes, basic CRUD applications, or full-scale enterprise solutions
• Deliver applications with extensive data model, fine-grained access control, extensive business logic, and intuitive UI for multiple stakeholders
• Business process automation with integrated BPM engine and process designer
• Headless CMS and web-portal backend for admin UI with powerful data management capabilities

Jmix Limitations

• For those developers who are more comfortable working with a different set of programming language, this tool might not be the right fit.
  
  They could become too challenging in the case of the initial phase or the Java frameworks' unfamiliarity for newcomers or those developers.
  
  This might pose some steep learning curve as a result of several options and powerful features it provides.

Jmix Github

⭐️ 450 stars on GitHub

https://github.com/jmix-framework

Jmix Ratings and Reviews

• G2: 4.8/5 (19+ reviews)
• Capterra: 4.9/5 (11+ reviews)

OpenXava

OpenXava simplifies business application development, leveraging Java technology to reduce time-to-market for companies. The platform streamlines the development process by providing a framework that focuses on business logic rather than coding tasks. Developers can easily create CRUD functionality and generate user interfaces based on the data model, accelerating deployment to meet business needs. OpenXava offers flexibility for customization and integration with other technologies, making it versatile for various business applications.

OpenXava Features

• Flexibility for customization
• Generate interfaces based on the data model
• Features suitable for small applications with few users
• Features suitable for proof of concept or evaluation

OpenXava Limitations

• New XavaPro Subscription may be expensive for small applications with few users or little use
• Limited customization options
• Steep learning curve for beginners

OpenXava Github

⭐️ 5 stars on GitHub

https://github.com/OpenXavaEx

OpenXava Ratings and Reviews

• G2: 4.5/5 (2+ reviews)
• Capterra: N/A
• Trustpilot: N/A

Rintagi

Rintagi is a low-code development platform that maintains a primary focus on a doable stakeholder management and security framework. Through the provision of the app store with ready-made applications like Rintagi 1ERP Suite and Securitization System, the users can customize their apps anywhere, anytime without writing hefty code.

Users have rated Rintagi's comprehensiveness, custom roles, extensive logging, and real-time updates that in the past would delay the changes for weeks. The platform is a distinctive point with an infinite upgrade of processes which also safeguard applications against out-of-date and obsolete technologies.

Make sure you stay informed of Rintagi's news and updates by attending regular news publications to keep in pace with its growing capacities and potential future inclinations. With Rintagi, businesses can make use of the tool of ReactJS and an ERP platform that is low-code in the comfort of their offices.

Be a part of the Rintagi team today, for this is where the future of digital product developement is driven by responsibility and the perfection of agility.

Rintagi Features

• Production-Ready
• Rintagi 1ERP Suite
• Securitization System
• Stakeholder Management

Rintagi Limitations

• Limited customization options
• Potential lack of technical support
• Limited integration capabilities with existing systems

Rintagi Github

⭐️ 307 stars on GitHub

https://github.com/Rintagi/Low-Code-Development-Platform

Rintagi Ratings and Reviews

• Capterra: 5/5 (1+ reviews)

Conclusions

Lastly, the empowerment of a development in low-code/no-code trend goes about to benefit both developer and non-developers enabling them to develop and deploy the applications faster and carry out innovation across different sectors.

These resources encompass numerous features and utilities that can be fine tuned to meet a specific demand or task, from internal business applications to highly sophisticated enterprise solutions thereby making app development more time and resource friendly.