Picking the right database for your no-code app is key to ensuring smooth performance, scalability, and efficient data management. This guide breaks down seven popular options, each suited for specific needs, from simple prototypes to enterprise-level apps. Here's a snapshot:
- Adalo Internal Database: Best for small apps and prototypes; included with Adalo plans but limited to 100,000 rows.
- Airtable: Great for team collaboration with spreadsheet-like interfaces; supports up to 50,000 records per base.
- Google Sheets: A familiar and budget-friendly option for early-stage projects; handles up to 10 million cells.
- Xano: A powerful backend for large-scale apps; no strict limits on records or traffic.
- MS SQL Server: Ideal for enterprise apps with robust security and scalability.
- PostgreSQL: Free, open-source, and designed for handling millions of records efficiently.
- Firebase: Perfect for real-time apps with automatic scaling and offline support.
Quick Comparison
| Database | Best For | Scalability | Pricing | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Adalo | Prototypes, small apps | Up to 100,000 rows | $45–$250/month | Native integration, no API latency |
| Airtable | Collaboration, small teams | Up to 50,000 records | Free; $20/user/month | Relational links, automations |
| Google Sheets | Startups, MVPs | Up to 10 million cells | Free; $6–$18/user/month | Real-time collaboration, easy setup |
| Xano | Data-heavy, enterprise apps | Millions of records | Free; starts at $29/month | API logic, enterprise-grade backend |
| MS SQL Server | Enterprise IT systems | High | $29+/month | Advanced queries, strong security |
| PostgreSQL | High-complexity systems | Millions of rows | Free; scale-to-zero plans | Open-source, flexible data handling |
| Firebase | Real-time, mobile apps | Unlimited connections | Free; pay-as-you-go | Real-time sync, offline support |
Each option caters to different stages of app development. Start small with tools like Adalo or Google Sheets, then scale up to robust solutions like Xano or PostgreSQL as your app grows. Always test database integration thoroughly to avoid performance issues down the road.
Database Integration Options for No-Code Apps: Feature and Pricing Comparison
Top 5 No Code Database Integrations | Xano
1. Adalo's Internal Database
Adalo's internal database is ready to go the moment your project starts. There's no need for a complicated setup - you can create collections (tables) and properties (fields) directly in the visual builder. It supports common data types like text, numbers, dates, images, and files, while also enabling complex relationships between tables to simplify data management. This seamless setup helps keep your workflow smooth and efficient.
Easy to Use and Integrate
Adalo's internal database removes technical hurdles. Its drag-and-drop interface makes designing your data structure straightforward. You can also import CSV files and quickly connect data to UI components. Think of collections as spreadsheets with rows and columns. For beginners, Adalo offers AI-driven tools like MagicStart and MagicAdd, which can automatically create database structures when you create an app using AI, saving time and effort.
Affordable Options for Different Needs
The internal database is included with every Adalo plan, making it accessible for a range of projects. The free plan supports up to 200 records, while the Starter plan, priced at $45 per month, allows for 1,500 rows. For larger needs, the Business plan, at $250 per month, accommodates up to 100,000 rows and offers storage of up to 500GB.
Built for Growth
As your app grows, having a scalable database is crucial. Adalo's internal database can handle up to 100,000 rows efficiently, with no API delays since the data is stored directly within the app's ecosystem. This setup speeds up prototyping by up to 40%. However, performance may begin to dip once you surpass 2,000–5,000 records. For apps with over 10,000 records or more than 1,000 daily active users, transitioning to an external backend may be necessary. Overall, this internal database is ideal for prototypes, MVP app development, and small to medium-sized apps, offering a streamlined solution that reduces complexity and helps you launch faster.
2. Airtable
Airtable blends the simplicity of spreadsheets with the power of relational databases. It’s perfect for teams managing complex data without needing to write SQL queries or hire developers. The platform relies on a REST API that encodes data in JSON, making it easy to integrate with no-code tools through External Collections. Since February 2024, Airtable has implemented Personal Access Tokens (PATs) with scoped permissions, such as data.records:read and data.records:write, for tighter control and improved data security.
Ease of Integration and Setup
Setting up Airtable is quick and straightforward, typically taking just 45–60 minutes - much faster than building a custom backend. It comes with pre-built connectors for popular tools like Slack, Gmail, and Typeform, along with strong integration capabilities for no-code web application development platforms. However, keep in mind that Airtable’s API skips empty columns, so ensure every column contains data. When updating records, use the PATCH method to avoid overwriting entire entries.
These integration features make Airtable a solid choice, especially for teams looking to scale their apps efficiently.
Scalability for App Growth
Airtable’s Team plan supports up to 50,000 records per base, making it a great option for small to medium-sized businesses. However, the platform enforces a rate limit of 5 requests per second per base and allows a maximum of 100 records per request. To maintain performance and avoid hitting these limits, use filtered "Views" (e.g., "Active Tasks" or "Low Stock Items") to retrieve only the data you need, instead of pulling thousands of records and filtering them in your app. While Airtable can handle substantial datasets, some users report performance issues when a base grows beyond 2,000 records unless optimized views are in place.
Cost-Effectiveness for Various Use Cases
Airtable offers a free plan that includes unlimited bases, up to 5 editors, and 1,000 records per base. For larger teams, the Team plan costs $20 per user per month (billed annually), increasing the capacity to 50,000 records per base and 25,000 automations. Compared to custom development, Airtable can cut costs by up to 65% and save teams around 15 hours per week through automatic syncing. It’s particularly effective for team collaboration - business users can manage tasks like inventory updates, content changes, or pricing adjustments directly in Airtable, freeing developers to focus on frontend work. Together with no-code platforms, Airtable handles more than 20 million data requests daily.
This balance of affordability, speed, and functionality makes Airtable a strong contender for teams seeking efficiency without sacrificing flexibility.
3. Google Sheets
Google Sheets stands out as a practical and familiar option for integrating scalable databases into no-code apps. With millions of users already comfortable navigating its interface, it’s an accessible choice. Personal accounts are free, while Google Workspace subscriptions range from $6 to $18 per user per month. These plans include storage for up to 10 million cells without additional database or storage fees, making it an affordable solution for teams experimenting with ideas or creating internal tools without hefty upfront costs.
Ease of Integration and Setup
Google Sheets integrates seamlessly with no-code platforms through various methods. For instance, Adalo's SheetBridge provides real-time, two-way syncing without the hassle of manual API configuration. To ensure smooth API parsing, use unique headers and avoid merged cells. Adding a dedicated unique ID column is also crucial for maintaining stable data relationships. A compelling example comes from a regional HVAC company that, in 2025, used Adalo's SheetBridge to manage over 200 weekly calls. By converting their data into a mobile app, they eliminated 15 hours of manual data entry each week and boosted inventory accuracy from 75% to 95%.
Scalability for App Growth
While Google Sheets can handle up to 10 million cells, performance tends to dip when datasets grow beyond 50,000–100,000 rows, especially if complex formulas are involved. Additionally, the API has a limit of 300 reads per minute. For larger datasets, techniques like paginated loading (loading data as users scroll) can help maintain app responsiveness. However, if load times exceed five seconds or calculations take minutes to process, it might be time to consider migrating to a dedicated database.
Cost-Effectiveness for Various Use Cases
Google Sheets delivers considerable savings. Automating processes by converting spreadsheets into apps can cut data entry errors by 40–60%. For example, a boutique retailer with multiple locations used a no-code app with barcode scanning to track inventory across five stores. This approach reduced stockout incidents by 40% and improved inventory accuracy to 95%. Google Sheets is particularly suited for rapid prototyping, small-scale operations (fewer than 1,000 records), and projects where a user-friendly interface is key for non-technical users. Its affordability and ease of use make it an excellent choice for early-stage projects before transitioning to more robust database solutions.
4. Xano
Xano is a PostgreSQL-powered backend platform designed for no-code developers who need enterprise-level performance. It currently supports over 300,000 databases, stores more than 1.3 billion records, and serves 100,000+ customers worldwide. With a dedicated server environment, Xano imposes no strict limits on users, traffic, or data storage.
Compatibility with No-Code Platforms
Xano’s API-first design ensures smooth integration with any no-code frontend via REST API. For Adalo users, the setup is particularly straightforward - just paste your API Base URL, and Adalo’s "Connect" wizard automatically identifies authentication and user endpoints. Xano centralizes user signups and logins, maintaining robust data security. Its visual Function Stack allows you to build complex backend logic without writing a single line of code. This seamless integration makes it a strong choice for scalable app development.
Scalability for App Growth
Xano’s infrastructure is built to handle growth, whether you're developing a prototype or managing billions of records. Powered by Docker, Kubernetes, and Google Cloud, it supports both horizontal and vertical scaling. The platform processes over 300 million API calls each month and offers a single-tenant architecture, ensuring dedicated CPU, RAM, and storage resources.
Paul Gill, Partner at Unico Connect, shared: "Whether we have 100 subscribers or 100,000 subscribers, our Xano backend will be able to handle it".
Additionally, Xano allows deployment in 14 geographic regions, enabling faster response times and GDPR compliance. Its load balancers automatically distribute traffic during high-demand periods.
Ease of Integration and Setup
While Xano is often categorized as an "Intermediate" platform, its AI-powered Database Assistant simplifies the process by generating custom schemas based on a single prompt. You can also import data directly from CSV files, Airtable, or migrate existing SQL/PostgreSQL databases with ease. A noteworthy example from 2023 is BivwAk! by BNP Paribas, which launched an MVP in just six weeks using Xano, cutting development costs by 30%.
Stephane Garnier, Manager at BivwAk!, remarked: "In 6 weeks, we released an MVP… and with a 30% reduction in cost. Xano's ability to adapt to governance is truly remarkable".
Cost-Effectiveness for Various Use Cases
For those starting out, Xano offers a free "Build" plan ideal for prototyping. Paid plans begin at approximately $29 per month, providing additional API requests and scaling capabilities. To integrate Xano with Adalo, you'll need an Adalo Team Plan ($200/month) or higher, but eligible users can access the Xano Starter plan for free. The platform also includes advanced features like scheduled push notifications, automated loops, and complex data transformations - capabilities that would typically require extensive custom development.
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5. MS SQL Server
MS SQL Server provides robust security and scalability, making it a strong choice for no-code app development. It connects seamlessly with Power Apps through dedicated connectors and integrates with Adalo using External Collections via REST APIs (often managed through no-code API builders) or middleware like n8n. As with other databases, it balances security, performance, and integration, making it a dependable option for scaling no-code apps.
Compatibility with No-Code Platforms
MS SQL Server is built to handle complex queries - like filtering, sorting, and aggregations - directly on the server, which is especially useful for datasets exceeding 2,000 records. Recently, Microsoft introduced a SaaS-based SQL database within Microsoft Fabric, tailored for low-code developers. This offering eliminates the need for manual provisioning and leverages AI to fine-tune performance. On the security front, MS SQL Server supports multiple authentication methods, including Microsoft Entra ID (formerly Azure AD), SQL Server Authentication, and Windows Authentication. These features align with the efficiency seen in other no-code database solutions, making it a reliable option for enterprise-grade applications.
Scalability for App Growth
Scalability is one of MS SQL Server's strengths. It processes filtering and sorting operations on the backend, ensuring only essential data is sent to the app. The platform also supports stored procedures to streamline operations. For instance, the SQL Server connector allows up to 125 concurrent calls per connection in Power Apps and up to 200 in Logic Apps, enabling multiple users to interact with the database simultaneously. Companies using no-code platforms report significant cost savings - averaging $1.7 million annually compared to traditional development. By 2025, 70% of new applications are expected to use low-code or no-code technologies. Additionally, Adalo’s integration with SQL Server handles over 20 million data requests daily, showcasing its capacity to manage high-demand environments.
Ease of Integration and Setup
Integrating MS SQL Server with no-code platforms is quick and straightforward. Tools like Zapier can establish automated workflows with SQL Server in less than 6 minutes. In Power Apps, the "Start with data" wizard simplifies the process by generating app screens directly from SQL tables.
To ensure smooth setup, consider the following:
- Use a primary key for each SQL table.
-
Opt for
varchar/nvarcharoverchar/nchar. - Implement stored procedures for Create, Update, and Delete actions.
- Design procedures to return fewer than 2,000 records for efficient UI data retrieval.
Cost-Effectiveness for Various Use Cases
For Adalo integration, MS SQL Server requires at least the Professional plan, costing around $52–$65 per month. Power Apps users typically need a Premium license to access SQL Server. While these costs may be higher than simpler database options, the platform’s ability to handle complex data operations and maintain performance with millions of records makes it a cost-efficient choice for enterprise-level applications. Compared to building a custom backend, this solution offers substantial savings without compromising on functionality.
6. PostgreSQL
PostgreSQL is a free, open-source database known for delivering enterprise-level performance, making it a popular choice for no-code app development. As an object-relational database, it combines reliability and high performance, often surpassing the capabilities of many native no-code databases. Modern no-code platforms connect directly to PostgreSQL, enabling the creation of custom business tools with full read and write capabilities - no need to migrate your data. This seamless integration makes PostgreSQL a strong foundation for building robust applications.
Compatibility with No-Code Platforms
PostgreSQL works effortlessly with no-code platforms, offering multiple integration paths. For instance, platforms like Glide provide direct connections, while automation tools such as n8n facilitate efficient data transfers and task automation. Unlike spreadsheet-based solutions like Google Sheets - which struggle with performance beyond 100,000 rows - PostgreSQL is built to handle millions of rows with ease. Many no-code platforms now feature "Native Backends" powered by PostgreSQL, offering visual table designers that address around 90% of app use cases without requiring extra configuration. This adaptability ensures PostgreSQL remains a reliable choice for growing app demands.
Scalability for App Growth
PostgreSQL's ability to scale is one of its standout features. Tools like Supavisor and PgBouncer optimize performance by reusing existing connections, reducing the overhead of serverless functions. Query performance can also improve dramatically with indexing - filtering or sorting operations on large datasets can see speed boosts of 40-60x. For example, a query on 100,000 records can drop from 2-3 seconds to just 0.05 seconds. With support for unlimited records on most paid plans and features like row-level security, PostgreSQL is an excellent choice for multi-tenant SaaS applications, ensuring data isolation for individual customers.
Ease of Integration and Setup
Getting PostgreSQL up and running with no-code platforms is straightforward. Services like Supabase simplify the process by offering visual setups that use database URLs and API keys. To maximize performance, you can index key columns, enforce row-level security, and implement pagination. Using Foreign Keys to link tables - such as connecting an "Orders" table to a "Customers" table through a customer_id - helps maintain data integrity and prevents duplication.
Cost-Effectiveness for Various Use Cases
PostgreSQL isn’t just powerful - it’s budget-friendly too. The database itself is free, and managed services like Supabase offer generous free tiers. These services often use a scale-to-zero pricing model, meaning you only pay for what you use. Integration platforms like n8n also keep costs predictable by charging based on complete workflow executions rather than individual operations. This pricing structure makes PostgreSQL an attractive option for startups while still being robust enough to support enterprise-level applications with millions of users.
7. Firebase
Firebase, a serverless database platform backed by Google, is trusted by over 600,000 developers worldwide. It simplifies data access for no-code apps through SDKs or REST APIs, removing the need for custom server setups. Firebase offers two database options: Cloud Firestore, which uses a collections-and-documents model, and the Realtime Database, which stores data as a single large JSON tree. For most modern no-code projects, Cloud Firestore is the go-to choice due to its advanced querying capabilities and automatic scaling. This ease of access is crucial for no-code platforms aiming for fast development and efficient data management.
Compatibility with No-Code Platforms
Firebase integrates effortlessly with no-code platforms via native connections and external collections. For example, platforms like Adalo provide built-in support, allowing developers to visually design their app's interface while hosting data on Firebase. No programming is required on the Firebase side, and data syncs across all connected clients in real-time - within milliseconds. This enables collaborative features without the need for networking code. Firebase's SDKs also store data locally, ensuring apps remain responsive offline and sync changes automatically once the connection is restored. Security is managed through expression-based Security Rules, enabling developers to define access permissions without writing backend code.
Scalability for App Growth
Firebase is built to handle growth effortlessly. Cloud Firestore automatically scales to accommodate unlimited concurrent connections and writes, making it ideal for rapidly expanding apps. It boasts an impressive uptime of 99.999% and response times typically under 30 milliseconds. Firebase stores data across multiple data centers in different regions, ensuring global reliability. For instance, the Galarm team, which serves millions of users across 175 countries, reported a 25% faster development process using Firebase’s infrastructure. Similarly, Hawkin Dynamics transitioned from the Realtime Database to Cloud Firestore, enabling them to deliver new products in "weeks instead of months".
Ease of Integration and Setup
Getting started with Firebase for no-code apps is surprisingly quick - setup can take as little as six minutes. Tools like Data Connect simplify the process by generating schemas, queries, and mutations from natural language. The basic steps include creating a project in the Firebase Console, enabling Cloud Firestore, registering a web app to obtain an API key, and setting up Security Rules. After that, you can connect your no-code platform by adding an external collection and entering the Firestore API endpoint URL. To ensure everything works smoothly, use the Firebase Local Emulator Suite to test database logic and security rules in a sandbox environment before going live.
Cost-Effectiveness for Various Use Cases
Firebase offers an appealing pricing structure for projects of all sizes. The Spark Plan (free tier) includes 50,000 reads, 20,000 writes, and 20,000 deletes per day, making it perfect for small projects or early-stage development. For larger projects, the Blaze Plan operates on a pay-as-you-go model, charging $0.03 per 100,000 reads, $0.18 per 100,000 writes, and $0.02 per 100,000 deletes. Storage costs start at $0.18 per GB per month. While Cloud Firestore primarily charges for operations, the Realtime Database focuses on bandwidth and storage, often at higher rates. This flexibility makes Firebase a practical choice for startups and enterprises alike.
Database Comparison Table
Choosing the right database hinges on your app's complexity, anticipated growth, and technical requirements. Below is a table summarizing the key features, scalability, pricing, and best use cases for popular database options.
| Database Option | Best For | Scalability | Pricing | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Adalo Internal Database | Simple mobile apps | Low (up to 5,000 records) | Included in plans starting at $36/month | Native integration, zero API latency, optimized app performance, built-in relationships |
| Airtable | Team collaboration and project management | Medium (processes 20M+ daily requests) | Starts at $24/user/month | Relational links, multiple views (Kanban, Grid, Calendar), automations |
| Google Sheets | Startups, MVPs, budget projects | Low to Medium | Free; Google Workspace from $6/user/month | Real-time collaboration, Google Workspace integration, widely accessible |
| Xano | Data-heavy apps and enterprise backends | High (millions of records) | Starts at $29/month | Complex API logic, HIPAA/SOC 2 compliance, enterprise-grade power |
| MS SQL Server | Enterprise IT systems | High | Accessed via connectors starting at $29/month | Standard for corporate data, strict data integrity, robust security |
| PostgreSQL | High-complexity business systems | High | Accessed via connectors starting at $29/month | Open-source, advanced relationships, flexible data types |
| Firebase | Real-time apps, chat tools, mobile-first projects | High | Free tier available; pay-as-you-go pricing | Real-time syncing, offline support, automatic scaling, NoSQL structure |
This table provides a snapshot of the options to help you make an informed decision for your no-code web app.
When weighing your options, consider how ease of use compares to scalability. Tools like Google Sheets and Airtable are simple to set up but may hit performance or record limits as your data grows. On the other hand, advanced solutions like Xano and traditional SQL databases offer robust scalability but require a deeper understanding of database logic and API configurations. Firebase strikes a middle ground, offering ease of use alongside enterprise-level scaling for real-time apps.
For e-commerce projects, platforms with native payment integrations, such as Adalo with built-in Stripe support, can save time and effort. If compliance is a concern, particularly for HIPAA or SOC 2 standards, Xano is a solid choice, as most no-code databases lack these protections. Additionally, teams using Airtable can save up to 15 hours per week on manual data entry thanks to its automatic sync capabilities.
Pro Tip: When working with external databases, optimize API performance by using filtered views and the PATCH method to avoid overwriting data unnecessarily.
Conclusion
Selecting the best database for your no-code app boils down to three key considerations: data volume, technical comfort, and budget. If you're working on a simple MVP with fewer than 5,000 records, Adalo's internal database is a solid choice, offering quick updates without requiring complex API setups. For teams needing real-time collaboration on spreadsheet-like data, Airtable or Google Sheets provide intuitive interfaces that don’t demand in-depth database knowledge. On the other hand, apps that need to handle millions of records or require advanced backend logic can benefit from enterprise-grade solutions like Xano, PostgreSQL, or MS SQL Server. And if your focus is on real-time mobile apps, Firebase ensures reliable data syncing across devices. Each of these options caters to different stages of growth, from MVPs to large-scale applications.
Start small and test thoroughly. Before committing to an external database, run full "Create, Read, Update, and Delete" (CRUD) tests to confirm that data flows seamlessly in both directions. Use dummy records in every field during your initial API setup - empty columns can often cause integration issues. These early testing steps will help you avoid costly errors and make informed budgeting decisions.
Speaking of budget, it’s an essential factor to weigh. For basic needs, Google Sheets is free, while enterprise solutions like Xano start at $29/month, scaling with your app’s requirements. If you're accessing external databases through Adalo, you'll need their Professional plan, priced at $65/month. Also, keep an eye on API request limits - Airtable, for example, caps usage at 5 requests per second, which can be quickly exceeded with just 100 active users.
Don’t rush into a database commitment. Many successful no-code app builders begin with Adalo’s internal database and only transition to external solutions after surpassing 5,000–10,000 records. This method allows you to validate your app’s concept without unnecessary complexity. To maintain data integrity, use best practices like filtered views and PATCH updates.
FAQs
What should I consider when selecting a database for my no-code app?
When deciding on a database for your no-code app, it's crucial to consider scalability and cost limitations. Many databases offer free or entry-level plans, but these often come with restrictions on the number of records, which might not align with your app's future requirements. Choose a database that can handle your anticipated data volume without causing performance bottlenecks or leading to unexpected expenses.
Another key factor is how well the database integrates with your no-code platform. Databases that offer native connectors or straightforward API support make it easier to sync data, eliminating the need for complex custom coding. If your app is more advanced, prioritize databases with relational features - like linking tables, defining field types, and managing permissions to control who can access or modify data.
Lastly, consider the database's data flexibility. Features such as importing and exporting CSV files, compatibility with spreadsheet tools, and automation integrations (think Zapier) can streamline workflows and prepare your app for future changes. Weighing these aspects carefully will help you select a database that can grow alongside your app while maintaining efficiency and security.
How do the database options for Adalo apps compare in terms of scalability?
Scalability among database options for Adalo apps can differ widely based on their architecture and features. If you're working on a smaller app or prototype, Airtable offers a straightforward, user-friendly solution. However, its free tier caps out at 1,200 records, and even its paid plans might struggle with larger datasets, typically in the range of 50,000 to 100,000 rows.
On the other hand, SQL databases like PostgreSQL or MySQL are built to handle millions of records. They achieve this through horizontal scaling methods, such as using read replicas or sharding. While powerful, these databases do require more effort for setup and ongoing maintenance.
For apps expecting rapid growth or handling unpredictable traffic spikes, NoSQL options like DynamoDB or Firebase shine. These databases are designed for automatic horizontal scaling, making them a solid choice for high-demand scenarios. If you prefer full control, self-hosted, open-source platforms let you scale by upgrading server resources as needed. For large-scale applications, enterprise-grade solutions come with advanced features like clustering and indexing to maintain performance under heavy workloads.
Ultimately, the right database depends on your app's growth trajectory and data needs. For smaller, simpler setups, Airtable works well. But if you're planning for heavy usage or rapid expansion, SQL, NoSQL, or enterprise-grade databases will deliver the scalability required to keep your app running smoothly as it grows.
What are the costs involved in integrating a database with a no-code app?
The cost of linking a database to your no-code app largely hinges on the approach you take. If you opt for Adalo’s built-in collections, the database comes included with your subscription. Plans start at $45 per month, which also lifts free-plan restrictions, such as the 200-record limit. For those needing custom API connections to external services, expect a one-time development fee ranging from $500 to $5,000, covering tasks like endpoint mapping and authentication setup.
When it comes to external databases or third-party integrations, costs can vary widely. Basic in-app connectors might be free or start at about $50 per month, while standard integrations typically fall between $100 and $500 per month. For more intricate setups - like automated workflows or custom integrations for high-volume apps - prices can range anywhere from $500 to $50,000 or more, depending on your app’s complexity and requirements. It’s essential to weigh your budget against your app’s scalability needs to find the right solution.
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