In the rapidly evolving landscape of no-code tools for web application development, two platforms stand out for their unique offerings: FlutterFlow and Bubble.

This blog post delves into the key differences between these tools to help you decide which one best fits your next project.

Integrated Database: A Key Differentiator

Bubble: All-in-One Solution

Bubble stands out with its integrated database feature.

This integration means that when building in Bubble, you handle the front end, logic, and data storage all within the same environment.

This unified approach simplifies the development process, making it easier to get started and build your application.

FlutterFlow: Separate Backend

FlutterFlow, on the other hand, requires a separate backend for data management, such as Superbase or Firebase.

This separation means that while building your application, you'll need to connect FlutterFlow to an external database.

Although this adds complexity to the development process, it has the advantage of keeping your database separate from your app. This separation can be beneficial if you decide to migrate your app to a different service in the future.

App Publishing Capabilities

FlutterFlow: Direct App Store Publishing

As of January 2024, FlutterFlow allows you to publish your app directly to the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.

This capability is a significant advantage if your goal is to create a mobile app that users can download.

Bubble: Web App Focus with Future Plans

Bubble is primarily optimized for building web apps accessible through web browsers.

However, they have announced plans to integrate App Store publishing into their platform.

Until then, third-party solutions exist to wrap and publish Bubble apps in app stores, though these may not perform as well as native solutions like FlutterFlow.

Community and Support

Both FlutterFlow and Bubble boast strong user communities, essential for troubleshooting and support.

Whether you encounter issues or have questions, both platforms offer active forums where you can seek answers.

Bubble, being older, may have a broader range of pre-answered queries, but FlutterFlow's community is equally robust.

Pricing Models

Understanding the pricing models of these platforms is crucial, especially for projects with budget constraints.

Bubble's Integrated Pricing

Bubble's pricing reflects its integrated database, with plans starting at $29. However, it also charges for workload units, which could add to the cost depending on your app's backend requirements.

FlutterFlow: Separate Database Costs

FlutterFlow's pricing ranges from $30 to $70 for different tiers, excluding the separate cost for external databases like Firebase or Superbase.

Typically, these external database costs are lower than Bubble's workload unit charges, making FlutterFlow potentially more cost-effective for scaling apps.

Code Export and Flexibility

A significant difference lies in each platform's approach to code export.

FlutterFlow: Exportable Code

FlutterFlow allows you to download all the code it generates, offering the flexibility to hand it over to developers for further coding and enhancements.

Bubble: Platform-bound Development

Bubble does not offer code export functionality, meaning your development is tied to their proprietary platform. This limitation could be a drawback if you plan to move away from Bubble in the future.

Conclusion: Which Platform Suits You Best?

Both FlutterFlow and Bubble have their strengths and are equipped with robust features for no-code development. Your choice depends on your project needs and preferences. If you prioritize an integrated environment with ease of use, Bubble might be your go-to. On the other hand, if you need flexibility in terms of database management and app publishing, or if you anticipate moving to coded solutions later, FlutterFlow could be a better fit.