Bubble.io vs Retool: Which One Should You Choose?
Explore the key differences between Bubble and Retool to determine the best no-code platform for your project needs
TABLE OF CONTENTS
If you want to build an app without coding, you've probably heard of Bubble and Zoho Creator. Both are popular no-code/low-code platforms, but they serve different purposes. Bubble is ideal for public web apps, while Zoho Creator is perfect for streamlining business tools for internal use.
So, which one should you pick? In this article, I'll guide you through the features, pricing, and use cases for both platforms to help you choose the best option for your project.
What is Bubble?
Bubble is a no-code platform designed for creating web applications. It's perfect for entrepreneurs, startups, and developers who want complete control over their app's design and features. With Bubble's drag-and-drop editor, you can build anything from SaaS platforms to marketplaces, all while handling complex workflows and databases.
If you want to create a fully responsive app that looks and functions like a custom-built platform, Bubble is here to assist you.
What is Zoho Creator?
Zoho Creator is a low-code platform designed for businesses that want to automate workflows and improve operations. As part of Zoho’s extensive ecosystem, it is ideal for creating business apps like CRMs, inventory management tools, and employee portals.
What sets Zoho Creator apart is its smooth integration with other Zoho products. If you’re already using Zoho CRM or Zoho Books, Creator is a perfect choice for your app development needs.
Also read - Top no-code app builders
Common Features of Bubble and Zoho Creator
- Drag-and-Drop Editor: Both platforms allow you to design apps visually without needing to code.
- Workflow Automation: You can automate tasks and set up logic-based workflows on both platforms.
- API Integrations: Both tools let you connect to third-party services for extra features.
- Multi-Platform Support: Bubble is focused on web apps, while Zoho Creator supports both mobile and web apps smoothly.
- Collaboration: Both platforms let teams work together during app development.
Unique Features of Bubble
- Web Application Focus: Specifically designed for creating responsive, web-first apps and progressive web apps (PWAs).
- Advanced Customization: Provides great flexibility to design unique user interfaces and workflows.
- Scalability: Easily scales for SaaS platforms, marketplaces, and customer-facing applications.
- Plugin Ecosystem: Provides access to thousands of third-party plugins to enhance app functionality. Zeroqode alone offers over 700 plugins to expand the capabilities of your Bubble app.
Also read - Best no-code AI app builders
Unique Features of Zoho Creator
- Business Ecosystem Integration: Easily connects with Zoho’s suite of tools like CRM, Books, and Analytics.
- Pre-Built Templates: Offers templates for common business needs, making development faster.
- Data Management: Includes tools for managing both structured and unstructured data effectively.
- Mobile App Support: Automatically generates mobile versions of apps without extra setup.
Ease of Use
- Bubble: If you enjoy experimenting and learning as you go, you'll appreciate Bubble's drag-and-drop editor. However, advanced features like workflows and database management might take some time to master.
- Zoho Creator: Zoho Creator is straightforward from the start, especially if you're building a business app. The templates and guided workflows help you get started quickly, even if you're new to app building.
Also read - Best no-code web app builders
Performance and Scalability
- Bubble: Bubble is designed to scale as your business expands. It performs well for everything from small prototypes to large SaaS platforms, but you’ll need to optimize workflows and database usage.
- Zoho Creator: Zoho Creator is made for business apps, but it might not handle high-traffic, customer-facing applications as well. It’s best for internal tools and process automation.
Pricing for Bubble
Plan | Monthly Price | Key Features |
Free | $0 | Basic features for prototyping, API connector, 1 app editor |
Starter | $32 | Custom domain, live app, basic version control, recurring workflows |
Growth | $134 | Premium version control, two-factor authentication, 2 app editors |
Team | $399 | Advanced workflows, sub-apps, 5 app editors, 25 custom branches |
Enterprise | Custom Pricing | Dedicated server, enhanced security, priority support |
Plan Recommendations for Bubble
- Free Plan: Ideal for learning the platform and testing basic prototypes.
- Starter Plan: Best for small projects or MVPs with essential workflows.
- Growth Plan: Perfect for scaling apps with complex workflows and an expanding user base.
- Team Plan: Suitable for collaborative teams managing multiple apps.
- Enterprise Plan: Designed for large-scale projects needing high security and customization.
Also read - How much does it cost to build an app on Bubble?
Pricing for Zoho Creator
Plan | Monthly Price (Billed Annually) | Key Features |
Free | $0 | Build up to 1 app, 250 MB storage, 1 user |
Standard | $8 per user | 3 apps, 1 GB storage, 25,000 records, workflow automations |
Professional | $20 per user | 5 apps, 3 GB storage, 50,000 records, custom branding, advanced integrations |
Enterprise | $25 per user | Unlimited apps, 10 GB storage, 100,000 records, AI features, advanced security |
Flex | Custom Pricing | Tailored for large organizations, enhanced security, compliance features |
Plan Recommendations for Zoho Creator
- Free Plan: Ideal for individuals exploring app development or testing simple ideas.
- Standard Plan: Suitable for small teams building a few apps to automate business processes.
- Professional Plan: Designed for medium-sized businesses with advanced integrations and more app capacity.
- Enterprise Plan: Perfect for businesses needing unlimited apps, advanced AI features, and increased storage.
- Flex Plan: Customized for large organizations focusing on high security and compliance.
Feature Comparison: Bubble vs Zoho Creator
Feature | Bubble | Zoho Creator |
Platform Focus | Web-first applications with responsive PWA support. | Business-focused apps with seamless integration into the Zoho ecosystem. |
Backend & Database | Built-in backend with advanced database management and workflows. | Strong data management tools with built-in analytics and AI capabilities. |
Customization | High flexibility for designing unique interfaces and workflows. | Limited to standard business templates and predefined structures. |
Mobile Support | Native mobile editor is currently in beta mode. | Automatically generates mobile versions of apps. |
Integration | Custom API integrations supported through plugins. | Native integration with Zoho’s ecosystem and other business tools. |
That’s a Wrap
In the end, Bubble and Zoho Creator serve different audiences and use cases. Bubble is the right choice if you need a fully customized app for external users, like a marketplace or SaaS product.
On the other hand, Zoho Creator is ideal for businesses focused on internal tools and processes, especially if you’re already using Zoho’s suite of products. Your choice depends on whether you need flexibility for public apps or efficiency for internal business tools.
Still unsure? At Zeroqode, we specialize in building apps on Bubble and have built over 500 successful projects. We can turn your idea into a fully functional app using best practices. Check out our case studies and explore our 700+ Bubble plugins.
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