In the search for efficient software development tools, businesses often turn to platforms that can simplify the creation of internal apps. One of the best options is Retool. But there are so many more suitable low-code alternatives on the market. This guide explores some of them – each is designed with specific strengths in mind that fit different business needs.

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Established platforms

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#1. OutSystems  

– For large enterprises needing scalable, full-stack app development

→ Check the platform

Key Features:

• OutSystems accelerates app development, similar to Retool, but offers a broader scope including full-stack development.
• It supports a wide range of integration, including enterprise systems.
• Ensures all applications are functional and optimized for any device.

Pros & Cons

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Pricing

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#2. Appian

– For sectors requiring robust process automation

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‍Key Features:

• Appian excels in automating complex business processes.
• Offers a user-friendly interface for designing and deploying applications, similar to Retool, but with a stronger emphasis on enterprise-level solutions.
• Provides deep integration capabilities tailored for large-scale systems.
• Ensures all applications are mobile-responsive.

Pros & Cons

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Pricing

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#3. Mendix

– For medium and large enterprises needing comprehensive development with strong collaboration features

→ Check the platform

Key Features:

• Mendix emphasizes agile methodologies, offering tools for project tracking, sprint planning, and feedback management.
• Features a user-friendly interface that facilitates collaboration between developers and business analysts.
• Supports seamless application operation across multiple devices with a focus on full application development.
• Provides out-of-the-box connectors for major systems like SAP and Salesforce.

Pros & Cons

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Pricing

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#4. PowerApps

– For organizations deeply embedded in the Microsoft ecosystem

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Key Features:

• It seamlessly integrates with the Microsoft ecosystem, including Office 365, Dynamics 365, Azure, and more.
• Connects to hundreds of external data sources using pre-built connectors, Common Data Service, or custom connectors.
• Offers a variety of templates and pre-configured components to speed up app development.
• Supports the creation of custom business logic and workflows without writing extensive code, using the Power Fx formula language.

Pros & Cons

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Pricing

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Emerging Platforms

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#5. Appsmith

– For developers seeking a flexible, open-source platform for building custom tools

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Key Features:

• Unlike Retool, Appsmith is completely open-source, which can be a significant advantage for security-conscious teams.
• It offers extensive customization options for UI components and workflows.
• The platform supports a wide range of databases and APIs, similar to Retool, but with the added flexibility that open-source provides.
• Can be self-hosted or used on Appsmith’s cloud, giving teams control over their data.

Pros & Cons

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Pricing

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#6. Budibase

– For businesses requiring automated workflows and internal tools

→ Check the platform

Key Features:

• Like Retool, Budibase offers a layer of transparency, but as an open-source platform, it also allows for deeper customization.
• Thanks to automation capabilities and dynamic data binding options, it offers a simple process of connecting UI components to data sources.
• Can be self-hosted or used via Budibase’s cloud service, giving users control over their deployment.
• Comes with a wide range of pre-built components and templates.

Pros & Cons

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Pricing

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#7. JetAdmin

– For non-developers and companies needing fast setup and deployment of internal tools

→ Check the platform

Key Features:

• JetAdmin allows you to construct applications and dashboards using a no-code, and drag-and-drop interface.
• Offers a comprehensive set of ready-to-use components, providing a simpler alternative to Retool's more flexible, code-enhanced customization.
• Enables instant data updates and display within applications.

Pros & Cons

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Pricing

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#8. Directual

– For developers requiring a platform for complex data management and scalable backend logic

→ Check the platform

Key Features:

• Directual offers data modeling tools that simplify the management of complex data structures, going beyond Retool's database management capabilities.
• Focuses on building applications with a strong API foundation, ensuring seamless integration with other systems.
• Allows users to design application logic, workflows, and data interactions without extensive coding, but with a focus on complex backend logic.
• Supports integration with a wide range of external systems and services.

Pros & Cons

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Pricing

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#9. Draftbit

– For projects focused on mobile-first design and rapid prototyping

→ Check the platform

Key Features:

• Draftbit supports a unique blend of no-code and code-centric development, allowing users to switch between visual building and coding.
• Provides real-time previews across multiple devices, a crucial feature for mobile development.
• Includes a comprehensive library of pre-built components that can be quickly implemented.
• Facilitates seamless integration with APIs, databases, and other services.

Pros & Cons

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Pricing

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#10. FlutterFlow

– For teams looking for quick development cycles and cross-platform compatibility

→ Check the platform

Key Features:

• FlutterFlow allows users to visually build apps using Flutter components, enabling native performance across iOS and Android from a single codebase.
• Offers a live preview feature during the app development process, allowing for real-time adjustments and testing.
• Supports a wide range of API and database integrations, including Firebase.

Pros & Cons

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Pricing

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#11. Superblocks

– For medium and large organizations looking to swiftly build and deploy internal tools

→ Check the platform

Key Features:

• Simplifies the development of internal tools, making it accessible even for those with limited coding expertise.
• Facilitates easy creation and management of APIs, offering capabilities that extend beyond Retool’s primary focus.
• Provides tools for automating complex workflows.
• Offers extensive integration options with databases, third-party applications, and internal systems.

Pros & Cons

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Pricing

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The bottom line

Choosing the right development platform can make a significant difference in your project's success. That’s why it’s important to look into alternatives to find the right fit.

For larger enterprises, tools like OutSystems and Mendix are ideal due to their robust integration capabilities and extensive customization options. Newer platforms like Appsmith and Budibase might be more suitable for startups and mid-size businesses due to their cost-efficiency and ease of use.

If you're unsure which of Retool competitors can cover your needs, or if you need assistance with development, our team is here to help. We offer expert consultations and development support to ensure you select the best tool for your goals.