Backendless
Backendless is a visual app development platform that combines a no-code UI builder with a real-time database and automated backend services to help you build and scale applications faster.
Bubble
Bubble is a visual programming platform that lets you build and host full-stack web applications without writing code, using a drag-and-drop editor and a powerful workflow engine.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | Backendless | Bubble |
|---|---|---|
| Website | backendless.com | bubble.io |
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| Starting Price | Free | Free |
| FREE Trial | ✓ 30 days free trial | ✘ No free trial |
| Free Plan | ✓ Has free plan | ✓ Has free plan |
| Product Demo | ✓ Request demo here | ✓ Request demo here |
| Deployment | ||
| Integrations | ||
| Target Users | ||
| Target Industries | ||
| Customer Count | 0 | 0 |
| Founded Year | 2012 | 2012 |
| Headquarters | Dallas, USA | New York, USA |
Overview
Backendless
Backendless is a visual app development platform that gives you the tools to build sophisticated applications without writing complex server-side code. You can design your frontend using a drag-and-drop UI builder and connect it to a powerful, real-time database. It eliminates the need for manual server management by providing automated backend services like user authentication, file storage, and messaging out of the box.
The platform is designed for developers and entrepreneurs who want to reduce time-to-market for web and mobile apps. You can build your logic visually using Codeless blocks or integrate custom code if you prefer a hybrid approach. Whether you are launching a simple MVP or scaling a complex enterprise system, you can manage your entire application lifecycle from a single, unified dashboard.
Bubble
Bubble gives you the power to build complex web applications like marketplaces, social networks, or CRM tools without writing a single line of code. You can design your interface with a drag-and-drop editor and define your app's logic through a visual workflow builder. Unlike simple website builders, it provides a robust hosted database, allowing you to manage user data and dynamic content effortlessly.
You can scale your application from a simple prototype to a venture-backed startup using its integrated hosting and version control. It solves the technical barrier for entrepreneurs and internal teams who need to launch custom software quickly and affordably. Whether you are building a private tool for your team or a public-facing platform for thousands of users, you have total control over the design and functionality.
Overview
Backendless Features
- Visual UI Builder Create responsive web and mobile interfaces using a drag-and-drop editor with pre-built components and real-time previewing.
- Real-time Database Store and manage your data in a high-performance NoSQL/SQL hybrid database that syncs across all users instantly.
- Codeless Logic Build complex business logic and API services visually using intuitive logic blocks instead of writing manual code.
- User Management Implement secure registration, login, and session management with built-in support for social OAuth and role-based access.
- Push Notifications Engage your users by sending targeted push notifications to iOS, Android, and web browsers directly from your backend.
- Cloud Code Extend your app functionality by deploying custom JavaScript or Java code that runs automatically in response to events.
Bubble Features
- Visual Editor. Design pixel-perfect user interfaces by dragging and dropping elements exactly where you want them on the screen.
- Workflow Engine. Create custom logic by defining exactly what happens when users click buttons or trigger specific events in your app.
- Integrated Database. Store and manage your application data with a built-in, scalable database that requires no SQL knowledge to operate.
- API Connector. Connect your app to any service with a JSON or XML API to extend your platform's capabilities.
- Responsive Design. Build layouts that automatically adjust to look great on desktops, tablets, and mobile devices using modern flexbox containers.
- Version Control. Test new features in a development environment and deploy them to your live site with a single click.
Pricing Comparison
Backendless Pricing
- Unlimited API calls
- Up to 10 database tables
- 1 GB file storage
- Visual UI Builder access
- Community support
- Everything in Free, plus:
- 100 database tables
- 5 GB file storage
- 10 GB data transfer
- Priority support
- Custom domain support
Bubble Pricing
- Core platform features
- Bubble branding
- Community support
- Basic version control
- Development version only
- Everything in Free, plus:
- Custom domain
- Recurring workflows
- Basic version control
- Email support
- 175k workload units
Pros & Cons
Backendless
Pros
- Extremely flexible database with real-time synchronization
- Comprehensive visual logic builder reduces coding time
- Generous free tier for prototyping and small apps
- Excellent documentation and active community support
Cons
- Steeper learning curve than simpler no-code tools
- Interface can feel overwhelming for absolute beginners
- Pricing can scale quickly with high data usage
Bubble
Pros
- Extremely flexible design capabilities for custom layouts
- Powerful logic engine handles complex app requirements
- Active community marketplace for plugins and templates
- Eliminates the need for separate hosting providers
- Fast deployment cycle for rapid prototyping
Cons
- Steep learning curve for complex logic
- New workload-based pricing can be unpredictable
- Platform lock-in makes exporting code difficult