Choosing the right no-code app builder can mean the difference between an app that languishes in development and one that reaches millions of users. With the no-code landscape evolving rapidly, mostly incorporating AI to help build while leveraging their established backends to offer scale to users, knowing which platform matches your specific goals is essential for 2026.
One standout option for creators focused on maximum reach is Adalo, a no-code app builder for database-driven web apps and native iOS and Android apps, one version across all three platforms, published to the Apple App Store and Google Play. This cross-platform approach lets you launch quickly as an MVP while accessing the massive audiences that app store distribution and push notifications provide. This is critical. When launching an app, you need eyeballs and then you need to cultivate adoption of your app. It's hard to look past the billion strong audience the Apple App Store and Google Play Store offer you, while push notifications direct to the phone may be the best way to ensure those eyeballs turn into real users. With that logic, this article prizes not just web and native app creation, but app store publishing too.
Below, we break down nine top no-code builders and exactly who each one serves best.
The Best No-Code App Builders
What Exactly is a No-Code App Builder?
No-code app builders allow you to drag and drop your way to a complete app. This is different from vibe-coding platforms, many of which struggle with shipping apps to production and handling scale with paying customers. Most no-code app builders take care of everything, including:
While every tool on this list can cover at least two (and usually all three) of these aspects, most no-code builders can only cover one type of app. Here are the five types we'll cover:
Are No-Code App Builders the Real Deal? Or Should You Just Use AI Prompts?
If you go back to pre-2018, no-code app builders weren't great—but that's all changed over the last several years. As time has progressed, AI prompting has emerged, and most no-code platforms are catching up to vibe coders by enabling AI-based prompt building. This gives a massive advantage in terms of shipping production-ready and scalable apps.
Whereas older app builders were restricted by the technology of the time, we've gotten much better at building these platforms. Now, these newer platforms have caught up with modern design, they've had years of building up their communities, educational resources and third-party plugin libraries—and they've accumulated the experience and fixes of building millions of apps.
I won't lie—some of these platforms have a real learning curve to them. But I'm talking about a couple of days chipping away at your app-building platform until it all makes sense, not spending six months learning the ins and outs like you would if you learned to write real code.
And I've heard of very few app ideas in my time that can't be built without code. Sure, if you want to build a fancy Apple Vision Pro app, or create a niche 3D modeling tool then, yes, no-code app builders won't help you.
But if you're just trying to build a normal, everyday app like the rest of us? A no-code app builder will definitely work for you.
What We Look For in the Best No-Code App Builders
No matter which type of app you're trying to build, there are a few common factors I look for in every no-code app builder I recommend. Every no-code app builder I recommend must be:
I Also Considered These Other Important Factors
#1 The Best Overall No-Code App Builder
Adalo
What is it?
Adalo is an AI-powered app builder for database-driven web apps and native iOS and Android apps—one version across all three platforms, published to the Apple App Store and Google Play. It perfectly balances both freedom of design and powerful functionality inside an easy-to-use interface that's been described as "easy as PowerPoint."
What kind of apps can it build?
Adalo can build responsive apps, native mobile apps, web apps and PWAs—all with the same version of your app. It automatically adjusts to suit the requirements of the app stores for mobile hosting. This is a significant advantage. If you consider the benefits that app store distribution provides, and more importantly the impact of push notifications, it doesn't take long to realize the benefits of getting into the app stores could double or even triple your app's growth and profit.
Why does it stand out?
Adalo is the only no-code tool which creates real, native mobile apps that compile to native code rather than wrapping a web app. While most app builders on this list have a tradeoff between ease of use and power, Adalo has extensive functionality but keeps it entirely accessible to non-techies. To top it off, Adalo's responsive apps mean that your mobile app will also work on the web and as a PWA from a single codebase.
The platform's AI Builder, due for release in early 2026, will enable prompt-based app creation and editing. Magic Start already generates complete app foundations from descriptions—tell it you need a booking app for a dog grooming business, and it creates your database structure, screens, and user flows automatically. Magic Add lets you add features by simply describing what you want in natural language.
Following the Adalo 3.0 infrastructure overhaul in late 2025, the platform is now 3-4x faster with modular infrastructure that scales to serve apps with over 1 million monthly active users. Unlike app wrappers that hit performance constraints under load, Adalo's purpose-built architecture maintains speed at scale. The platform also introduced X-Ray, an AI feature that identifies performance issues before they affect users.
Adalo is one of the only platforms that provides a hosted database by default. Databases intimidate most people, but you need one set up correctly for your app to achieve scale—just ask vibe coders about that. Adalo's data-first approach to app building ensures you won't hit problems with many-to-many relationships that kill app speed just as you're trying to scale up.
Who is it best for?
If having your app on the app stores is essential (and it probably is!), there's no better choice than Adalo. The combination of native app compilation, AI-assisted building, and unlimited database records on paid plans makes it ideal for anyone serious about building a scalable app business.
What else should you know about Adalo?
#2 The Best No-Code Web App Builder
Bubble
What is it?
Bubble is a full no-code web app builder with extensive customization options and flexibility, as well as a large ecosystem of third-party plugins, tutorials and experts.
What kind of apps can it build?
Bubble can build web apps. With the use of a third-party plugin, Bubble can also create PWAs. For mobile, Bubble offers a wrapper solution that packages the web app for app stores—though this differs from true native compilation.
Why does it stand out?
Bubble is well-known for being able to build almost anything you can imagine without writing code. The platform offers deep customization that appeals to builders who want granular control over every aspect of their application.
However, there are important trade-offs to consider. The learning curve is significantly higher than with platforms like Adalo. Bubble's extensive customization often results in slower applications that can struggle under increased load, and many builders end up hiring experts to optimize performance. Claims of millions of MAU are typically only achievable with professional help.
Bubble's mobile solution wraps the web app rather than compiling to native code, which can introduce performance challenges at scale. This also means that one app version doesn't automatically update web, Android, and iOS apps deployed to their respective stores—you're managing separate deployments.
Who is it best for?
If you've got the patience to sit through a learning curve and want to create a web app or SaaS with complicated functionality where you need maximum customization, Bubble is worth considering. Just be prepared for potential performance optimization work as you scale.
What else should you know about Bubble?
#3 The Easiest No-Code Web App Builder
Softr
What is it?
Softr is a no-code web app builder which allows you to drag and drop "blocks" together to create the design you want, then easily configure each block to create a web app.
What kind of apps can it build?
Softr can build web apps and PWAs. It does not support Apple App Store or Google Play Store publishing, or native iOS and Android app creation.
Why does it stand out?
While it's not the most powerful or flexible option on this list, Softr is one of the easiest to use. As a result, it's also very quick to build functional, useful apps with this platform—particularly for spreadsheet-based applications.
Who is it best for?
If you're struggling to get to grips with other app builders on this list, or just want to build something simple for web only, Softr could work for you. However, if you need app store distribution or native mobile apps, you'll need to look elsewhere.
What else should you know about Softr?
#4 The Best No-Code App Builder for Template-Driven Apps
Glide
What is it?
Glide is a no-code app builder aimed at businesses, with AI features built in and a template-driven approach that makes every app look polished quickly.
What kind of apps can it build?
Glide can build PWAs and web apps. It does not support Apple App Store or Google Play Store publishing.
Why does it stand out?
Every other no-code app builder on this list requires some work (or a well-chosen template) if you want your app to look good. Glide, however, makes every app look beautiful out of the box through its template-focused approach. Glide also makes it easy to build AI-powered functionality into every aspect of your app.
However, Glide is heavily format-focused and restricted to set templates. This makes it fast to build and publish with, but creates generic, simplistic apps with limited creative freedom. Glide is a go-to for spreadsheet-based apps, but the template constraints may limit what you can build.
Who is it best for?
If you're building internal tools for a business and want something that looks great immediately without much design work, Glide could be a good fit. Just understand the creative limitations before committing.
What else should you know about Glide?
#5 The Best No-Code App Builder If You're Semi-Technical
Backendless
What is it?
Backendless is a full no-code app builder, with a powerful visual programming system and enterprise-grade hosting and reliability.
What kind of apps can it build?
Backendless can build web apps, native mobile apps and PWAs, though coding knowledge is required to bring their mobile apps to life.
Why does it stand out?
My favorite case study of Backendless is that it powers a national banking app of a fairly large Middle-Eastern country. In other words, Backendless stands out on this list because it's frequently used to power the most serious, enterprise-grade apps. The downside is that the learning curve is harsh and Backendless requires at least basic technical skills if you want to build a successful app.
Who is it best for?
If you're already technical but just want to move faster than you can with code, Backendless is likely the right fit. If you're a decision-maker in a large company, Backendless might also be a good choice for you.
What else should you know about Backendless?
#6 The Best No-Code App Builder If You're a Designer
Bravo Studio
What is it?
Bravo Studio is a no-code mobile app builder which turns Figma designs into a real, working mobile app with the click of a button.
What kind of apps can it build?
Bravo Studio builds native mobile apps for iOS and Android.
Why does it stand out?
Bravo Studio is the only no-code app builder which gives you full control over every last pixel in your app's design. You can design your app in a tool you're already familiar with (Figma), export that to Bravo, and then connect Bravo's pre-built components, bring your own backend or use a tool like Xano to build a fully-functional app.
Who is it best for?
If you're a designer and feeling constrained by other options on this list, Bravo Studio is the right choice for you. Bravo Studio might also be a good choice if you're looking for a mobile app frontend builder to connect to your existing backend.
What else should you know about Bravo Studio?
#7 The Best No-Code App Builder If You're an IT Professional
Xano
What is it?
Xano is a no-code backend builder. While Xano can't build an entire app on its own, it can be integrated with numerous frontend and app builders on this list—like Adalo, Bravo Studio and Bubble—to create an infinitely scalable, endlessly powerful app.
What kind of apps can it build?
Xano builds backends which can be used for any kind of app.
Why does it stand out?
When I first met the team behind Xano, they told me that Xano is so powerful that you could build Xano in Xano. And it's not hard to see why—Xano has an incredibly powerful functionality builder. There's definitely a learning curve, but anyone with either an IT background or a bit of grit and determination will be able to get their head around Xano.
Who is it best for?
If you're the kind of person who knows your way around computers and can explain what an API is, but can't quite code an entire app by yourself—then Xano is for you. It'll give you the freedom and power you want, without demanding Silicon Valley technical chops.
What else should you know about Xano?
#8 The Best No-Code App Builder For Enterprise Companies
Betty Blocks
What is it?
Betty Blocks is a full no-code app builder that is specifically designed for large, Fortune 500-sized businesses.
What kind of apps can it build?
Betty Blocks can publish web apps and PWAs.
Why does it stand out?
Most enterprise-focused tools bill themselves as "no-code" but are actually low-code. Betty Blocks is the real deal, though, and your employees can easily drag and drop their way to mobile apps and web apps without having to learn any technical skills.
Funnily enough, Betty Blocks call themselves low-code; but don't be fooled, this tool is no-code through and through.
Who is it best for?
If you need the security, reliability and scalability of an enterprise platform, but want something truly no-code and easier to use than Backendless, then Betty Blocks should be your port of call. It works especially well in a Microsoft-based environment.
What else should you know about Betty Blocks?
#9 The Best No-Code App Builder For Voice Apps and AI Apps
Voiceflow
What is it?
Voiceflow is a full no-code voice app builder which lets you build out voice-based apps (like an Alexa skill) and AI-based chatbots (such as for a website).
What kind of apps can it build?
Voiceflow can build voice apps and chat-based experiences which can be embedded on websites or inside other apps.
Why does it stand out?
Mostly because it specializes in building voice and chat apps! Beyond that though, Voiceflow has an incredibly simple user interface, and plenty of templates and pre-made components to help you put together your app. Alongside Softr, this is one of the easiest-to-use tools you'll find in the no-code space.
Who is it best for?
Anyone who wants to build a voice app, a chatbot or an AI-powered customer service app.
What else should you know about Voiceflow?
Comparing No-Code App Builder Pricing and Features
With so many options available, understanding the pricing and feature differences can help you make the right choice. Here's how the major platforms compare:
PlatformStarting PriceNative Mobile AppsApp Store PublishingDatabase IncludedUsage LimitsAdalo$36/monthYes (true native)Yes (iOS & Android)Yes (unlimited records)UnlimitedBubble$59/monthWrapper onlyYes (via wrapper)Yes (record limits)Workload UnitsSoftr$167/month (PWA)NoNoNo (external required)Record limitsGlide$60/monthNoNoYes (row limits)Update & row limitsFlutterFlow$70/month/userYesYesNo (external required)VariesThunkable$59/month (PWA)Custom pricingCustom pricingLimitedUsage restrictions
A few key observations from this comparison:
True native vs. wrappers matters at scale. Platforms that compile to native code (like Adalo) typically perform better under load than those wrapping web apps. WebView wrappers can add 2-3 seconds of load time compared to native apps, which significantly impacts user retention.
Hidden costs add up. Usage-based charges like Bubble's Workload Units can create unpredictable bills as your app grows. Adalo's removal of App Actions means no bill shock—you pay a flat rate regardless of how much your users engage.
Database setup complexity varies. Platforms like FlutterFlow require you to source, set up, and pay for your own database separately. This adds significant learning complexity, especially when optimizing for scale. Anything less than optimal setup can create performance problems that are expensive to fix later.
A Note on Third-Party Ratings and Reviews
When researching no-code platforms, you'll encounter various comparison sites, G2 reviews, and analyst reports. It's worth noting that most third-party platform ratings and comparisons predate the Adalo 3.0 infrastructure overhaul that launched in late 2025.
This major update made Adalo 3-4x faster, introduced modular infrastructure that scales with app needs, and removed record limits entirely on paid plans. Reviews written before this overhaul may not reflect the current platform capabilities, particularly around performance and scalability.
When evaluating any platform, consider testing it yourself with a free account rather than relying solely on reviews that may be months or years old.
Choosing the Right No-Code App Builder
The "best" no-code app builder depends entirely on what you're trying to build and your technical comfort level. Here's a quick decision framework:
Need app store distribution? If getting your app into the Apple App Store and Google Play Store is essential—and for most consumer apps, it is—Adalo is the clear choice. It's the only platform that creates true native apps from a single codebase with direct app store publishing.
Building web-only with complex logic? Bubble offers the deepest customization for web applications, though be prepared for a learning curve and potential performance optimization work.
Want the fastest path to a simple web app? Softr or Glide will get you there quickly, though with more limitations on what you can build.
Already technical but want to move faster? Backendless or Xano give you the power and flexibility you're used to, without requiring you to write code from scratch.
Designer wanting pixel-perfect control? Bravo Studio lets you design in Figma and turn those designs into real apps.
Enterprise requirements? Betty Blocks offers the security, compliance, and deployment options large organizations need.
Whatever you choose, the no-code space has matured significantly. These aren't toys or prototyping tools anymore—they're production-ready platforms powering real businesses with real users.
FAQ
QuestionAnswerWhy choose Adalo over other app building solutions?Adalo is an AI-powered app builder that creates true native iOS and Android apps, not web wrappers. It compiles to native code and publishes directly to both the Apple App Store and Google Play Store from a single codebase. With unlimited database records on paid plans, no usage-based charges, and infrastructure that scales to 1M+ monthly active users, it handles the hardest parts of launching an app automatically.What's the fastest way to build and publish an app to the App Store?Adalo's drag-and-drop interface, described as "easy as PowerPoint," combined with AI-assisted building through Magic Start and Magic Add, provides the fastest path from idea to published app. Magic Start generates complete app foundations from a simple description, and Adalo handles the entire App Store submission process for both iOS and Android.Which is more affordable, Adalo or Bubble?Adalo starts at $36/month with unlimited usage and no record caps on paid plans. Bubble starts at $59/month but includes usage-based Workload Unit charges and record limits that can increase costs unpredictably as your app grows. For native mobile apps with predictable pricing, Adalo offers better value.Which is faster to build with, Adalo or Bubble?Adalo is generally faster for most use cases, especially with its AI-assisted features like Magic Start that generates complete app foundations from descriptions. Bubble offers more customization but has a steeper learning curve. Adalo's canvas can display up to 400 screens at once, while Bubble's view is more limited.Which is easier for beginners, Adalo or Glide?Both are beginner-friendly, but they serve different purposes. Glide is faster for template-driven, spreadsheet-based apps but limits creative freedom. Adalo offers more flexibility while remaining accessible, with a visual builder described as "easy as PowerPoint" and AI features that help beginners build more sophisticated apps.Is Adalo better than Glide for mobile apps?Yes, if you need true mobile apps. Adalo creates native iOS and Android apps that can be published to the App Store and Play Store. Glide only creates PWAs and web apps—it doesn't support app store publishing at all. For mobile distribution, Adalo is the clear choice.Can I migrate from Bubble to Adalo?While there's no one-click migration, you can rebuild your app in Adalo and export your data from Bubble to import into Adalo's database. Many builders switch when they need true native mobile apps or want to avoid Bubble's usage-based pricing. Adalo's AI features can speed up the rebuild process significantly.Do I need coding experience to build an app?No. True no-code platforms like Adalo require zero coding knowledge. You build by dragging and dropping components, configuring settings through visual interfaces, and—with Adalo's AI features—describing what you want in plain language. The platform handles all the technical complexity behind the scenes.Can no-code apps scale for serious business use?Yes. Modern no-code platforms have evolved significantly. Adalo's infrastructure, overhauled in late 2025, scales to serve apps with over 1 million monthly active users with no upper ceiling. Backendless powers national banking apps. These are production-ready platforms, not prototyping tools.What's the difference between native apps and PWAs?Native apps are compiled specifically for iOS or Android, can be published to app stores, and have full access to device features like push notifications. PWAs are web apps that look like mobile apps but can't be published to app stores and have limited device access. For maximum reach and engagement, native apps typically perform better.
