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This is our curated list of open-source, no-code platforms to cut some of your developer-centric expenses.
Admittedly, software developers are amongst the highest-paid professionals.
According toForbes, product development is the number one expense for creating any software.
This proves a major bottleneck, especially if youre a startup.
Catering to this specific use case, there are aplenty no-code or low-code platforms to build your product.
Low-Code vs No-Code
First things first, there is nothing such as No-code in system development.
There will always be code running in the background handled by software professionals.
But with No-code software, you dont write a single line of code.
A simple drag-and-drop interface and your program will be up and running.
Conclusively, this also means limited customizations.
No-code platforms are aimed at non-coding tech-savvy users.
So, low-code software are assistive tools aimed at coding professionals to speed up software development.
And finally, a low-code platform can function like a no-code, but the opposite isnt true.
While you’re able to start with any, this article is aboutopen-source low-code platforms.
Trusting open-source applications always proves best.
And then you’re free to always fork out once you grow in numbers.
So, without any ado, lets start with the list of some of the best open-source low-code platforms.
ToolJet
ToolJetis a low-code app development platform to build internal applications.
Its compatible with numerous database management systems, including PostgreSQL, MySQL, Cloud Firestore, MongoDB, etc.
you could deploy ToolJet on the cloud or on-premises.
In both cases, ToolJets website ensures data privacy and security.
Compatible with RestAPIs, ToolJet can connect to Amazon Simple Storage Service or Google Cloud.
you’re able to also integrate it with Google Sheets, Slack, Airtable, Stripe, etc.
Applications built with ToolJet are mobile-responsive.
With 35+ user interface components, it has an excellent drag-and-drop builder for visual editing.
In addition, Tooljet has query editors for all supported database systems.
ToolJet lets you collaborate with your team and resolve conflicts anywhere on the software canvas.
In addition, you’re able to build plugins to boost up the functionality.
And yeah, there is a free tier as well.
NocoDB
NocoDBis a free Airtable alternative to build no-code applications with ease.
This works with MySQL, PostgreSQL, Microsoft SQL Server, SQLite, Amazon Aurora & MariaDB databases.
One can also program APIs to integrate it with Zapier,Make, etc.
NocoDB is an entirely free self-hosted solution.
Basically, you might use this to convert any supported database into a smart spreadsheet.
NocoDB also lets you password-protect views for better security.
In addition, it supports collaboration with different access levels.
And finally, NocoDB makes sure you wont get stuck with its rich documentation.
However, it’s possible for you to book a demo for a head start.
Baserow
Baserowis a web-internet tool-based no-code app development platform.
It assists you in building a database without any detailed technical experience.
you’re able to create unlimited rows and databases with Baserow.
It works with the PostgreSQL database with support for MySQL and SQLite coming in the future updates.
While Baserow is no-code friendly, its API-first approach lets it easily connect to external applications.
you’re able to allow role-based permission for effective collaborations.
Baserow gives the flexibility between creating custom plugins or connecting them with 3rd party ones.
Baserow has a free tier with an MIT license.
Meanwhile, cloud hosting is also free but will be priced in the future.
Read more on ourhands-on review of Baserow.
Frappe Framework
Frappe Frameworkis a DocType low-code platform to create commercial applications without much effort.
Support for MariaDB and PostgreSQL databases allows for role-based permission for varying access levels.
you’re free to also integrate with external applications using Rest API and Webhooks.
Besides, Frappe Framework has a modular system that allows you to build applications over other projects.
Further, it has built-in forms, lists, search, and navigation to boost productivity from the get-go.
This low-code offering is from Frappe Technologies, which has numerous other free and open-source projects like theERPNext.
Directus
Directusis an open-sourceheadless CMScompatible with any SQL database.
It supports data input and adaptation by REST+GraphQL API, JavaScript SDK, and Pure SQL.
However, there is always an option to start afresh.
And there is granular access control to create custom workflows for the users.
This also permits API extension with additional endpoints, webhooks, response filters, and event logic.
In addition, Directus is compatible with security protocols such as SSO, OAuth2, OpenID, and 2FA.
Besides, Directus is modular, allowing extension with custom JavaScript.
Finally, it has a no-limits self-hosted version along with free and paid cloud hosting subscriptions.
Convertigo
Convertigois a low-code/no-code app development platform to build Android and iOS apps in a single instance.
Convertigo is a standalone platform that doesnt need any third-party SDK to build smartphone applications.
However, it’s possible for you to use external SDKs for local builds.
But the no-code is aimed at what Convertigo calls citizen utility makers.
This is limited to form builder, progressive web apps, offline deployment, etc.
Convertigo has a free community version in addition to two paid tiers with monthly and annual paid plans.
Saltcorn
Saltcornshould be your go-to resource for building web applications without writing a single line of code.
you could quickly try a demo to gauge Saltcorns capabilities without any setup.
There are a host of sample applications on Saltcorns website to give an idea about the possibilities.
This is a free platform released under the MIT license.
So, you might self-host for an entire no-cost deployment.
Alternatively, you’re free to use 3rd partycloud hosting platformsas a premium alternative.
ROWY
Rowyis an open-source Airtable alternative for database management.
Exclusive to Google Firestore, Rowy permits the use of any NPM package or API for added functionality.
It supports bulk data import/export with an option to create custom data actions.
Additionally, Rowy has role-based permission for secure teamwork.
you’re able to either self-host or use a free limited-features cloud version.
However, it’s possible for you to also opt for the pro-version for all the advanced attributes.
It helps you perform CRUD actions within a user-friendly GUI.
Additionally, Motor Admin eases data analysis with custom SQL reports and charts.
One can also integrate production applications via APIs to build personalized forms.
And like others, the self-hosted version is free, while others are paid depending upon the subscription.
NocoBase
NocoBaseis a no-code development platform that allows full customizations without coding skills.
Like many others on this list, NocoBase also boasts granular access control.
The app easily integrates forms, statistical charts, tables, calendars, etc., into blocks.
you might display the information in various ways and maintain a discrete data structure to support it.
And you’ve got the option to use plugins should you need extra processing prowess.
NocoBase gives you full ownership and limitless commercial use under the MIT license.
And if you factor in open-source, then they quickly become scarce.
However, open-source is essential as it provides security and flexibility and bypasses any possibility of vendor locks.
PS: it’s possible for you to also check some of thebest online databases.
or learn about MVP apps.
