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.
Established platforms
#1. OutSystems
For large enterprises needing scalable, full-stack app development
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:
- Reduces development timelines, outpacing Retool in environments where full-stack solutions are needed.
- Manages large-scale deployments more robustly than Retool.
- Offers a large, active community for support.
Cons:
- Complex pricing model.
- Learning curve to fully leverage the platform.
- Platform-centric development approach.
Pricing
Free Plan: Offers access to all development features with limitations on deployment and usage.
Developer Cloud: Includes a wide range of professional features with a price from $32,500 per year.
Advanced add-ons: Offers custom set of additional features for any business’ needs.
#2. Appian
For sectors requiring robust process automation
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:
- Significantly reduces the time to market.
- Easily integrates with enterprise systems.
- More adept at scaling to meet enterprise demands.
Cons:
- Complex pricing structure.
- Steep learning curve.
- The customized nature of apps can lead to dependency on the platform.
Pricing
Free Trial: Offers a free trial to explore the platform's capabilities.
Professional: Custom pricing based on the specific needs and scale of the organization. There are three modes available: Standard, Advanced and Premium.
#3. Mendix
For medium and large enterprises needing comprehensive development with strong collaboration features
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:
- Streamlines the prototyping and deployment process.
- Bridges the IT-business divide.
- Excellently suited for handling the demands of large organizational structures and complex projects.
Cons:
- Complexity for small projects.
- The cost can be significant, especially for small to medium-sized enterprises.
- Can require a considerable amount of training.
Pricing
Free Edition: For new users and small teams to explore the platform’s basic capabilities.
Basic Plan: Allows to create simple workgroup applications. Subscription starts at €52,50 per month.
Standard Plan: Designed for professional developers and teams, offering full platform functionality with scalable pricing based on usage. starts at €900 per month.
Premium Plan: Provides custom advanced features, security, and support tailored to large enterprises with specific requirements.
#4. PowerApps
For organizations deeply embedded in the Microsoft ecosystem
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:
- Known for its intuitive interface, making it accessible for non-developers.
- Strong Integration with Microsoft Products.
- Offers an extensive range of templates and components.
Cons:
- Dependence on Microsoft Ecosystem.
- Complexity in more advanced uses.
- Performance issues with more complex applications, especially on mobile devices.
Pricing
Developer Plan: Allows to build and test unlimited apps across three environments to experiment before moving to production – all for free.
Power Apps Premium: Enables licensed users to build, modernize, deploy, and run unlimited applications with a subscription fee $20 per month.
---
Emerging Platforms
#5. Appsmith
For developers seeking a flexible, open-source platform for building custom tools
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:
- No cost to use the core features.
- Active community.
- Extensive integrations with major databases and API services.
Cons:
- The vast range of capabilities may require a learning curve.
- Enterprises might find the lack of dedicated professional support.
Pricing
Free: The core platform is free to use, including most features necessary for building and running applications.
Business Plan: For teams seeking more customisation and collaboration, the option requires a subscription that starts at $40 per month.
Enterprise Plan: For large teams with more security, scale, and support needs. To get the price you need to contact sales department.
#6. Budibase
For businesses requiring automated workflows and internal tools
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:
- Extensive integration options without premium costs.
- Cost-effective solutions.
Cons:
- Limited customization in UI in early stages.
- Learning curve.
Pricing
Free: Budibase offers a free tier that includes most features needed for building and managing applications.
Premium Plan: For advanced features and enhanced support, the Premium plan starts at $50 per user per month.
Enterprise Plan: Tailored for large organizations, pricing is available on request.
#7. JetAdmin
For non-developers and companies needing fast setup and deployment of internal tools
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:
- Development is accessible to non-developers.
- Allows for the rapid creation and deployment of tools.
- Supports a broad array of data sources and APIs.
Cons:
- Limited customization.
- Dependence on pre-built components.
Pricing
Free Plan: Offers a basic set of features at no cost, suitable for small teams and simple projects.
Starter Plan: Priced at $24 per user per month, designed for professional teams that need more advanced functionalities and support.
Pro Plan: Allows to create custom domains and includes custom code. Starts at $48 per month.
#8. Directual
For developers requiring a platform for complex data management and scalable backend logic
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:
- Offers greater flexibility in customization compared to Retool.
- Excellently suited for projects requiring backend solutions.
- Benefits from an active community and responsive support.
Cons:
- Might be challenging for newcomers or non-technical users.
- Setting up complex applications can be time-consuming.
Pricing
Startup Plan: Ideal for launching an MVP, testing your idea, or building an internal app. Pricing starts at $29 per month.
Pro Plan: For $99 per month you’ll get advanced features for app developing and scaling, including personal on-boarding.
Business Plan: Great for high loaded, business-critical apps, enterprise-ready SLA. The price starts at $300 per month.
#9. Draftbit
For projects focused on mobile-first design and rapid prototyping
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:
- Flexibility in design and development.
- The bi-directional code generation and real-time previews significantly cut down development time and effort.
- Strong community support and a wealth of educational resources.
Cons:
- Primarily focused on mobile apps.
- Learning curve for advanced features.
Pricing
Free Plan: Allows users to explore the basic features and build apps with some limitations.
Basic Plan: Offers additional features, enough to build a fully functional internal platform. The price begins at $19 per month.
Pro Plan: Starting at $49 per month, this plan includes more integration options, and higher levels of support for professional development teams.
Team Plan: Allows to add collaborators for the project – for $199 per month.
#10. FlutterFlow
For teams looking for quick development cycles and cross-platform compatibility
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:
- Builds applications that are compatible with both Android and iOS.
- Makes development accessible to people with limited coding knowledge.
- Offers access to a growing community and responsive support channels.
Cons:
- Dependency on Flutter.
- Limited web support.
- Early stage platform that is still evolving.
Pricing
Free Tier: Allows users to explore the basic functionalities with some feature limitations.
Standard Plan: Includes additional features such as code and APK download, custom domain web publishing. The price starts from $30 per month.
Pro Plan: Offers a full access to all the features of the platform for additional $40 per month.
Team Plan: Great for the projects that need collaborative work. Monthly fee – $70.
Enterprise Plan: Optimized for enterprise compliance, security, support and operational integration. The price is available on request.
#11. Superblocks
For medium and large organizations looking to swiftly build and deploy internal tools
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:
- Significantly reduces the time required to develop and deploy tools.
- Capable of scaling to meet the demands of growing businesses.
- Offers advanced features, allowing for customizations that go beyond typical no-code limits.
Cons:
- Being relatively new, there are fewer user reviews and case studies available.
- The breadth of capabilities and some advanced features may require a learning period.
- Primarily designed for internal tools and workflows.
Pricing
Free Tier: Offers basic functionalities suitable for small teams or individual developers.
Pro Plan: For growing businesses managing internal tools across teams. Price starts at $49 per month.
Custom Plan: For businesses with advanced security, management, and support needs. The set of features is tailored to specific business.
---
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.
Lead Generation Tool to Reduce Manual Work
Our client, Afore Capital, a venture capital firm focused on pre-seed investments, aimed to automate their lead generation processes but struggled with existing out-of-the-box solutions. To tackle this challenge, they sought assistance from our team of Akveo Retool experts.
The scope of work
The client needed a tailored solution to log and track inbound deals effectively. They required an application that could facilitate the addition, viewing, and editing of company and founder information, ensuring data integrity and preventing duplicates. Additionally, Afore Capital aimed to integrate external tools like PhantomBuster and LinkedIn to streamline data collection.
The result
By developing a custom Retool application, we streamlined the lead generation process, significantly reducing manual data entry. The application enabled employees to manage inbound deals efficiently while automated workflows for email parsing, notifications, and dynamic reporting enhanced operational efficiency. This allowed Afore Capital's team to focus more on building relationships with potential founders rather than on administrative tasks.
Learn more about the case
Retool CMS Application for EdTech Startup
Our client, CutTime, a leading fine arts education management platform, needed a scalable CMS application to improve vendor product management and user experience.
The scope of work
We developed a Retool application that allows vendors to easily upload and manage product listings, handle inventory, and set shipping options. The challenge was to integrate the app with the client’s system, enabling smooth authentication and product management for program directors.
The result
Our solution streamlined product management, reducing manual work for vendors, and significantly improving operational efficiency.
Building Reconciliation Tool for e-commerce company
Our client was in need of streamlining and simplifying its monthly accounting reconciliation process – preferably automatically. But with a lack of time and low budget for a custom build, development of a comprehensive software wasn’t in the picture. After going through the case and customer’s needs, we decided to implement Retool. And that was the right choice.
The scope of work
Our team developed a custom reconciliation tool designed specifically for the needs of high-volume transaction environments. It automated the processes and provided a comprehensive dashboard for monitoring discrepancies and anomalies in real-time.
The implementation of Retool significantly reduced manual effort, as well as fostered a more efficient and time-saving reconciliation process.
Creating Retool Mobile App for a Wine Seller
A leading spirits and wine seller in Europe required the development of an internal mobile app for private client managers and administrators. The project was supposed to be done in 1,5 months. Considering urgency and the scope of work, our developers decided to use Retool for swift and effective development.
The scope of work
Our developers built a mobile application tailored to the needs of the company's sales force: with a comprehensive overview of client interactions, facilitated order processing, and enabled access to sales history and performance metrics. It was user-friendly, with real-time updates, seamlessly integrated with existing customer databases.
The result? Increase in productivity of the sales team and improved decision-making process. But most importantly, positive feedback from the customers themselves.
Developing PoC with Low Code for a Tour Operator
To efficiently gather, centralize, and manage data is a challenge for any tour operator. Our client was not an exception. The company was seeking to get an internal software that will source information from third-party APIs and automate the travel itinerary creation process. Preferably, cost- and user-friendly tool.
The scope of work
Our experts ensured the client that all the requirements could be covered by Retool. And just in 40 hours a new software was launched. The tool had a flexible and easy-to-use interface with user authentication and an access management system panel – all the company needed. At the end, Retool was considered the main tool to replace the existing system.
Testing New Generation of Lead Management Tool with Retool
Our client, a venture fund, had challenges with managing lead generation and client acquisition. As the company grew, it aimed to attract more clients and scale faster, as well as automate the processes to save time, improve efficiency and minimize human error. The idea was to craft an internal lead generation tool that will cover all the needs. We’ve agreed that Retool will be a perfect tool for this.
The scope of work
The project initially began as a proof of concept, but soon enough, with each new feature delivered, the company experienced increased engagement and value.
We developed a web tool that integrates seamlessly with Phantombuster for data extraction and LinkedIn for social outreach. Now, the company has a platform that elevates the efficiency of their lead generation activities and provides deep insights into potential client bases.
Building an Advanced Admin Portal for Streamlined Operations
Confronted with the need for more sophisticated internal tools, an owner of IP Licensing marketplace turned to Retool to utilize its administrative functions. The primary goal was to construct an advanced admin portal that could support complex, multi-layered processes efficiently.
The scope of work
Our client needed help with updating filters and tables for its internal platform. In just 30 hours we've been able to update and create about 6 pages. Following features were introduced: add complex filtering and search, delete records, styling application with custom CSS.
Together, we have increased performance on most heavy pages and fixed circular dependency issues.
Creating MVP Dashboard for Google Cloud Users
Facing the challenge of unoptimized cloud resource management, a technology firm working with Google Cloud users was looking for a solution to make its operations more efficient. The main idea of the project was to create an MVP for e-commerce shops to test some client hypotheses. Traditional cloud management tools fell short.
The scope of work
Determined to break through limitations, our team of developers turned Retool. We decided to craft an MVP Dashboard specifically for Google Cloud users. This wasn't just about bringing data into view; but about reshaping how teams interact with their cloud environment.
We designed a dashboard that turned complex cloud data into a clear, strategic asset thanks to comprehensive analytics, tailored metrics, and an intuitive interface, that Retool provides. As the results, an increase in operational efficiency, significant improvement in cost management and resource optimization.
Elevating CRM with Custom HubSpot Sales Dashboard
Our other client, a SaaS startup, that offers collaborative tools for design and engineering teams, was on a quest to supercharge their sales efforts. Traditional CRM systems were limited and not customizable enough. The company sought a solution that could tailor HubSpot to their workflow and analytics needs.
The scope of work
Charged with the task of going beyond standard CRM functions, our team turned to Retool. We wanted to redefine how sales teams interact with their CRM.
By integrating advanced analytics, custom metrics, and a user-friendly interface, our developers provided a solution that transformed data into a strategic asset.
In 40 hours, three informative dashboards were developed, containing the most sensitive data related to sales activities. These dashboards enable our customer to analyze sales and lead generation performance from a different perspective and establish the appropriate KPIs.
Building a PDF Editor with Low-Code
Our client, a leading digital credential IT startup, needed a lot of internal processes to be optimized. But the experience with low-code tools wasn’t sufficient. That’s why the company decided to hire professionals. And our team of developers joined the project.
The scope of work
The client has a program that designs and prints custom badges for customers. The badges need to be “mail-merged” with a person’s info and turned into a PDF to print. But what is the best way to do it?
Our developers decided to use Retool as a core tool. Using custom components and JavaScript, we developed a program that reduced employees' time for designing, putting the data, verifying, and printing PDF badges in one application.
As a result, the new approach significantly reduces the time required by the internal team to organize all the necessary staff for the conference, including badge creation.
