Bubble vs Retool: Introduction

In 2025, visual development platforms continue to transform the way businesses build applications—reducing time to market and minimizing the need for traditional coding. Two of the most prominent tools in this landscape are Bubble, known for its full-stack no-code development capabilities, and Retool, a powerful platform tailored for building internal tools.

As organizations increasingly seek agility in building both customer-facing and internal business applications, selecting the right no-code platform has become a strategic decision. The wrong choice can lead to technical limitations, higher development costs, and slower innovation.

These platforms support the creation of a wide range of web apps, catering to different user needs from internal business tools to consumer-facing interfaces.

This article presents a detailed comparison of Bubble and Retool to help decision-makers choose the best solution for their specific needs.

Introduction to no-code development

No-code development has revolutionized the way businesses and individuals create web applications, internal tools, and custom software solutions. With the rise of no-code platforms, users can now build complex applications without extensive coding knowledge. These platforms, such as Bubble and Retool, provide a visual interface for designing, developing, and deploying web applications, making it easier for non-technical users to create custom solutions. No-code development democratizes app creation, allowing anyone with an idea to bring it to life without the need for a traditional coding background. This shift not only accelerates the development process but also reduces costs and fosters innovation across various industries.

Overview of no-code platforms

No-code platforms are software solutions that enable users to create web applications, internal tools, and custom software without writing code. These platforms provide a range of tools and features, including drag-and-drop editors, visual programming interfaces, and pre-built components, to simplify the development process. No-code platforms, such as Bubble and Retool, cater to different needs and use cases, including building internal tools, web applications, and customer-facing apps. By leveraging these platforms, businesses can quickly develop and deploy applications, streamline operations, and respond to market demands with agility. The key features of no-code platforms include ease of use, rapid development, and the ability to integrate with various data sources and third-party services.

Bubble overview: a no-code platform

Core functionality

Bubble is a versatile tool that serves as a comprehensive visual programming environment, enabling users to build fully functional web applications without writing code. It supports frontend UI development, backend workflows, and database management—all in one platform.

Bubble is specifically designed for building web applications from scratch without needing to code, distinguishing it from other platforms like Retool, which focuses on creating internal tools.

Bubble’s architecture is built on a drag-and-drop interface, a built-in database, and event-driven workflows. It uses JavaScript and AWS-based infrastructure under the hood.

Key features

• UI Builder: Intuitive visual editor for responsive design
• Database tools: Custom data types, relations, and real-time updates
• Workflow engine: Powerful logic builder for events and conditions
• Plugin marketplace: Hundreds of community and official integrations
• Hosting & Deployment: Built-in CDN, auto-scaling infrastructure
• Collaboration: Version control, team access, rollback features
• Minimal coding: Simplifies the app development process for both non-technical users and developers while allowing for robust functionality
• Retool apps: Integration with Git-based version control systems to manage changes, deployments, and collaboration effectively, especially for internal tools and maintaining application stability

Pricing structure

• Free Tier: Limited features, ideal for learning
• Starter ($32/mo): Custom domain, app editor, limited capacity
• Growth ($134/mo): Better performance and collaboration, including version history
• Team/Enterprise: Custom pricing with enhanced SLA and support

Bubble’s pricing scales with server workload, so cost can rise significantly with high traffic or complex logic. Additionally, Bubble offers enterprise-grade security features to manage sensitive data, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements.

Retool overview: building internal tools

Core functionality

Retool is a rapid internal tool builder that allows teams to assemble dashboards, admin panels, and workflows using a library of ready-made components, similar to how Bubble's infrastructure supports scalable and efficient hosting solutions. It connects to nearly any data source and supports writing logic in JavaScript.

Retool is also suitable for creating applications for external users, such as customers or clients, making it a versatile option for startups and product-oriented teams.

The platform’s core design philosophy revolves around enabling developers to build internal tools with maximum flexibility and minimum boilerplate code.

Key features

• Component library: Drag-and-drop interface with editable components
• Data connectors: Native support for PostgreSQL, Firebase, REST APIs, etc.
• Query editor: SQL and JS-based query engine
• Authentication: SSO, RBAC, granular permissions, and robust security features
• Custom code: Embed JS functions within UI logic
• Hosting options: Cloud, on-premises, and VPC deployment
• Advanced security features: Includes HIPAA compliance and audit logs for sensitive applications

Pricing structure

• Free Tier: For individuals and testing (limited features)
• Team ($10/user/mo): Basic collaboration and integrations
• Business ($50/user/mo): Role-based access and audit logs
• Enterprise: Custom plans with dedicated support and compliance

Retool’s per-user pricing is affordable for small teams but grows with user count and feature needs, making it a cost-effective solution for developing business applications.

Additionally, Retool's pricing structure is designed to support the creation of internal business tools, which can streamline processes and drive efficiency within organizations.

Admin panels and application development

Building internal tools and admin panels requires a deep understanding of the development process, data sources, and integration capabilities. No-code platforms, such as Bubble and Retool, provide a range of features and tools to simplify this process. With Bubble, users can create custom internal tools, connect to external data sources, and build complex workflows without writing code. Retool, on the other hand, excels in creating admin panels and dashboards by connecting to existing databases and APIs. These platforms offer drag-and-drop editors, visual programming interfaces, and robust integration capabilities, making it easier for businesses to develop and maintain their internal tools. The benefits of using no-code platforms for admin panels include faster development times, reduced costs, and the ability to quickly adapt to changing business needs.

Technical comparison

Architecture and infrastructure

• Bubble: Full-stack environment with built-in frontend, backend, and database, featuring a visual programming interface that simplifies the process of building web applications without needing technical expertise.
• Retool: Frontend tool layer that connects to external backends
• Hosting: Bubble apps run on Bubble infrastructure; Retool supports on-prem
• Bubble offers: Various pricing plans tailored for startups and small businesses, emphasizing accessibility and suitability for diverse user needs, from beginners to growing teams.

Development experience

• Learning curve: Bubble easier for non-coders; Retool suits developers as a low-code platform
• Docs & community: Both have extensive documentation and forums
• Workflow: Bubble excels in custom app flows; Retool streamlines CRUD-heavy operations
• Pricing: Appsmith offers a cost-effective solution with its usage-based pricing, making it an affordable choice for businesses of varying sizes

Integration capabilities

• Bubble: API connector, plugins, and Zapier support
• Retool: Superior out-of-the-box integrations with databases and APIs, making it a strong contender in the 'retool vs' comparisons with other platforms
• Custom integrations: Easier with Retool’s scripting capabilities
• Web application: Ideal for building full web applications quickly and easily, especially for non-technical users and startups looking for flexibility and design control

Security features

• Bubble: SSL, data privacy tools, simple role access control
• Retool: SAML SSO, SOC 2, granular RBAC, audit logging
• Compliance: Retool more suited for enterprise security needs as a low code platform
• Low Code Platforms: These platforms, including Retool, offer robust security features like SAML SSO and SOC 2 compliance, making them ideal for developing secure internal tools and applications with minimal coding.

Use case analysis

Building internal tools

Internal tools are custom software solutions designed to streamline business operations, improve productivity, and enhance collaboration. No-code platforms, such as Retool and Bubble, provide a range of features and tools to build internal tools, including pre-built components, drag-and-drop editors, and visual programming interfaces. With these platforms, users can create custom internal tools, connect to external databases, and build complex workflows without writing code. The role of technical expertise is minimized, allowing non-technical users to contribute to the development process. However, for more advanced features and customizations, some level of coding knowledge may still be beneficial. The main challenges include ensuring data security and managing complex workflows, but the benefits of increased efficiency and flexibility often outweigh these concerns.

App development with no-code platforms

No-code platforms have revolutionized the app development process, enabling users to create web applications, internal tools, and custom software solutions without extensive coding knowledge. With platforms like Bubble and Retool, users can design, develop, and deploy web applications, including customer-facing apps, internal tools, and admin panels. These platforms offer key features such as drag-and-drop editors, visual programming interfaces, and robust integration capabilities. The benefits of using no-code platforms include faster development times, lower costs, and the ability to quickly iterate and improve applications. However, there are challenges, such as the potential for a steep learning curve and limitations in customization compared to traditional coding. Bubble and Retool each have their strengths, with Bubble being ideal for end-user applications and Retool excelling in internal tool development. Understanding the specific needs and goals of your project will help determine the best platform for your use case.

When bubble excels

• Building SaaS products or marketplaces using a no code tool
• End-user applications requiring custom UI/UX
• MVPs for startups looking to launch quickly
• Workflow-driven apps and mobile-first interfaces
• Applications where you need to create reusable components to streamline development and allow for rapid iteration on app design

When retool excels

• Internal admin panels and dashboards
• CRUD apps and business process automation
• Connecting multiple third-party systems
• Rapid tool development for operations teams with real time collaboration features
• Internal tools rather than customer facing applications

Potential for combined usage

• Use Bubble for public-facing products where users do not need to write code but should understand app logic and design fundamentals
• Use Retool for internal analytics, admin tools
• Sync data via shared APIs or middleware like Make or Zapier
• These platforms allow users to build web applications using user-friendly interfaces and pre-built components, making them versatile for various needs from simple tools to complex operations

Performance metrics

Speed and responsiveness

• Bubble: Optimized, but can slow with complex pages or workflows
• Retool: Snappy interface; depends on external DB performance and integrates seamlessly with existing infrastructure
• Retool: Connects to multiple data sources, enhancing speed and responsiveness in data-rich environments

Scalability limits

• Bubble: May require optimization for high concurrency and integration with an external database
• Retool: Scales well for internal use; depends on data source limits
• Internal business applications: When considering scalability limits, it's crucial to evaluate how well the platform supports the development of internal business applications. Retool, for instance, is designed to create internal tools that integrate seamlessly with existing systems, enhancing project objectives and overall business functionality.

Reliability and uptime

• Bubble: ~99.95% uptime, auto-scaling apps, no code platform
• Retool: ~99.9% uptime, depends on deployment choice
• Both platforms support the development of a wide range of web apps, ensuring reliability and uptime for both simple and complex applications.

Migration considerations

Moving from Bubble to Retool

• Identify internal logic to port into Retool queries
• Export Bubble database into external DB
• Rebuild interfaces with components, including those for mobile apps
• Consider building internal apps to streamline workflows and data management when moving from Bubble to Retool

Moving from Retool to Bubble

• Recreate interfaces using Bubble’s drag and drop editor
• Migrate data or connect via APIs
• Redesign workflows in Bubble logic editor
• Build apps that are scalable and optimized for various business needs using Bubble. This platform supports end-to-end development, from simple prototypes to complex business tools, ensuring that specific project requirements are met efficiently.

Case studies

Bubble success stories

• EdTech startup launched platform in 2 months with Bubble using minimal coding
• Marketplace scaled to 20k+ users with built-in workflows
• Testimonials praise flexibility and design control
• Retool apps have also been highlighted in Bubble success stories, showcasing how integration with Git-based version control systems can manage changes, deployments, and collaboration effectively

Retool success stories

• Operations team built 50+ internal apps in a quarter, leveraging version history to manage and deploy applications efficiently
• Finance department automated reporting tools
• Users report 4x development speed vs. traditional coding
• Enterprise clients trust Retool for managing sensitive data, ensuring compliance with strict regulatory requirements

Future development roadmap

Bubble's future direction

• Native mobile app support
• AI logic assistant and better performance tools
• Deeper enterprise features (SSO, audit logs, robust security features)
• Advanced security features, such as HIPAA compliance and audit logs, will be crucial for Bubble's future direction, especially for building more sensitive applications.

Retool's future direction

• More connectors and out-of-the-box templates
• Expanded AI-assisted tool generation
• Enhanced deployment and governance tools
• Development of more business applications
• Focus on internal business tools to streamline processes and drive efficiency within organizations

Expert recommendations

For startups and small businesses

• Choose Bubble if your product faces end-users and you need a user-friendly visual programming interface to build complex functionalities without technical expertise
• Choose Retool for managing operations internally
• Consider both for full product + ops coverage
• Explore Bubble offers for competitive pricing plans tailored to startups and small businesses, making it an accessible option for diverse user needs

For enterprise organizations

• Use Retool for compliance-ready internal tools as it is a low-code platform aimed at developers who need to build internal tools quickly
• Use Bubble for innovation labs and quick prototyping as it is a no-code platform designed for users with little to no coding experience who want to create fully functional web applications
• Integrate both with existing cloud infrastructure
• Consider Appsmith for a cost-effective solution with its usage-based pricing, making it an affordable choice for businesses of varying sizes

For development teams

• Bubble fits no-code and product-focused teams
• Retool ideal for devops and data-savvy teams
• Plan for onboarding based on technical background
• Consider the 'retool vs' comparisons to understand the unique features and benefits of Retool in contrast to other platforms like Airtable and Bubble
• Focus on web application development as it offers flexibility, design control, and an approachable avenue for startups and teams, especially with tools like Bubble catering to non-technical users

Conclusion

Bubble and Retool are both powerful, but fundamentally different, visual development platforms. Bubble is best for building end-user experiences, while Retool shines for internal workflows and dashboards. Understanding your goals and constraints will guide the right choice.

Building your next app with Bubble or a hybrid stack? We help businesses launch faster using the best no-code and low-code tools available. 👉 Contact us to work with experts in the field.

‍