Low-code app builder definition: Advantages + comparisons

A low-code app builder is a user-friendly software tool that simplifies app development, allowing you to create custom applications with minimal coding. You use a visual interface to drag-and-drop components, reducing the need for in-depth programming knowledge.

Low-code development accelerates the app development process, making it accessible for individuals with limited coding skills, also known as “citizen developers”, while still offering flexibility for more experienced developers.

Choosing low-code development platforms to build your app has many advantages over the process traditionally followed by app developers.

1 - Faster development

Low-code development platforms speed up the application development process significantly. You can create mobile applications in a fraction of the time compared to traditional coding methods. This means quicker time-to-market and faster responses to business needs.

2 - Reduced coding expertise

With low-code development, you don't need to be a coding expert. The visual interface simplifies the process, allowing you to design apps using a drag-and-drop interface and pre-built templates.

3 - Cost savings

You can save on app development costs by using low-code app builders. Since you need fewer skilled developers and less time, it reduces expenses related to the development team.

4 - Flexibility

Despite its simplicity, low-code development is flexible. You can still customise apps to suit your specific requirements by adding custom code when needed, maintaining the balance between ease of use and customisation.

5 - Scalability

As your business grows, low-code apps can scale with you. They're designed to handle increased data, users and functionalities without requiring a complete rebuild.

6 - Enhanced user experience

Low-code applications prioritise user-friendly design, improving the overall user experience and ensuring that your applications are intuitive and accessible.

7 - Agility

Low-code application development platforms make your business more agile since multiple team members can work together within the same low-code environment, making it easier to share ideas, design concepts and give feedback.

The difference between low-code and no-code platforms mainly lies in the level of coding expertise required.

No-code app builders demand zero coding knowledge as they use only visual interfaces for app creation. Whereas low-code platforms, while still user-friendly, involve some coding, offering more customization and complexity. This makes them suitable for those with basic programming skills.

However, there is more to them than meets the eye. Let's discuss them in detail 👇

1 - Customization

Low-code platforms allow for a higher degree of customisation through code. You can integrate custom code to create custom apps when necessary, giving you more control over the application's functionality and appearance.

No-code platforms are generally less customisable since they rely solely on pre-built components. Custom coding is usually not an option, which can limit the complexity of applications you can create.

2 - Complexity

Low-code application platforms are suitable for creating a wide range of applications, including those with moderate to high complexity. They can handle advanced app features and integrations.

No-code platforms can’t handle complex applications and are better for relatively simple applications. They’re well-suited for straightforward tasks like forms, basic data management and simple workflows.

3 - Development speed

Low-code tools offer rapid application development compared to traditional coding but may still require more time than no-code platforms due to the coding involved.

No-code platforms are the fastest for building simple applications since they avoid coding entirely. They're excellent for rapidly prototyping or creating straightforward apps.

4 - User base

Low-code platforms are typically used by a mix of business users and professional developers, as they bridge the gap between the two. They’re suitable for enterprise-grade apps with varying levels of technical expertise.

No-code platforms are primarily intended for non-technical users with little or no coding skills. They empower "citizen developers" to create basic business applications without IT involvement.

By now, you know that low-code and no-code app builders both have their pros and cons. While low-code offers a high level of customisation, you still need to have basic technical skills. On the other hand, no-code doesn’t offer much customisation and is ideal for simple apps.

Builder.ai helps to bridge the gap between these two platforms.

We’re neither a low-code app builder nor a low-code app builder. Instead, we combine the benefits of the two, giving you the ability to make unlimited customisations even if you don’t have any coding skills.

To see how our process works, check out our app builder 👈