No-code and low-code tools are on the rise, and you may have heard of Bubble and Flutterflow, two of the most popular tools. This article compares Flutterflow vs. Bubble, helping you choose which one is the best tool for your specific needs.
What is FlutterFlow?
FlutterFlow is a no-code platform focused on building native mobile apps using a cross-platform language under the hood called Flutter. Flutter is a framework built by Google that allows you to build apps on both iOS and Android, with only one codebase, instead of separately developing for Android and IOS.
One of the great features of FlutterFlow is that it lets you export code, which opens doors if you want to further customize your app and go beyond what the platform currently allows you to do.
Another great feature is the ability to easily publish your app, which can be a huge headache if you are doing it for the first time without the help of an expert.
What is Bubble?
Now, Bubble is another powerhouse in the no-code space, but it has a very different vibe from FlutterFlow. While FlutterFlow is geared toward mobile app development, Bubble is primarily for creating web applications. If you have an idea for a web app or an MVP for a SaaS product, Bubble gives you the tools to bring that idea to life. What’s amazing about Bubble is that it offers an almost limitless canvas – you can design and customize just about any feature you’d need, especially when it comes to web application development.
Here’s my take, though: Bubble can be a dream and a headache, all rolled into one. On the one hand, it offers so much customization and functionality; on the other hand, the flexibility comes with a learning curve (and more on that later!). Bubble’s visual editor isn’t as quick-to-grasp as some other no-code platforms, but it’s worth it if you’re in this for a scalable, highly customized web product. You also get backend functionality and database capabilities built-in, so you’re not relying on third-party services to store and manage your data. But keep in mind, Bubble’s more like “low-code” in disguise – to really make the most out of it, you’ll need a decent grasp of app logic and data structure.
Learning curve: ease of use for no-code developers
Now let’s talk about the learning curve. Bubble has a reputation for being challenging at first, and, honestly, it lives up to that. The sheer amount of customization available in Bubble can feel overwhelming at first, especially that you can can feel the platform wasn’t especially built to to be beginner-friendly. You can feel it was built by French engineers, who are known to be great engineers but might not care about the packaging; meaning a good UX here. However, if you’re willing to spend the time necessary to properly familiarize with the platform, it’s incredibly rewarding. Once you understand how to work with the database, manage workflows and backend settings, you’re basically unstoppable in terms of what you can build.
On the other hand, FlutterFlow is quicker to pick up. The interface is intuitive, and the drag-and-drop functionality is straightforward. But as soon as you want to develop a unique feature that forces you to add custom code, the challenge level rises. It’s easier for simpler apps but you may need the help of a Flutter developer if you want to go far. So, my take? If you want something up and running fast with a simple learning curve, you can forget both platforms and use simpler tools, but if you want to choose a platform that allows you to go far in terms of customization, choose FlutterFlow if you want to build an app, and Bubble if you want to build a web application.
By the way, we are Realistack, a product design and low-code development studio that exclusively works with tech startups. If you want to launch your startup and need help with building your MVP, don’t hesitate to reach out. We usually take a 5% share upon delivery in exchange for a lower hourly rate. That way, our interests are aligned with yours in the long run.
One worry that I always had when I wanted to outsource the development of my startup’s MVP was all the things in the code that I would not see, but if done wrong, could cause major issues and slow us down later on. That’s why I like the idea of taking share and truly think that’s the way to go if you decide to outsource the development of your MVP. We also offer product design services which is a great if you want to do things properly and already have some early validation.
UI customization and functionality
When it comes to UI customization, Bubble and FlutterFlow each bring something unique to the table, but let’s get real – they have totally different strengths. Bubble shines for web apps. If you’re building a web-based product and need to control every pixel on the screen, Bubble offers a level of flexibility that’s honestly hard to beat. You get a ton of control over your design, from layout to styling, and you’re not stuck with a cookie-cutter feel. But there’s a catch: making a truly responsive design on Bubble can sometimes be a headache, especially for beginners. If you want to design an app that looks good on desktops, tablets, and mobile devices, prepare to spend extra time tweaking the responsiveness.
Now, FlutterFlow has a different story. It’s all about mobile applications – specifically native apps that feel smooth on both iOS and Android. FlutterFlow allows you to use pre-built widgets that look great out of the box, and its drag-and-drop interface makes it easy to create an app that looks professional. But here’s the thing: while these pre-built components save time, they come with limits. If you want a UI that’s super unique, there’s less flexibility than you’d find in Bubble. However, if you need to get a mobile app off the ground fast, FlutterFlow provides what you need without bogging you down in endless customization options.
Platform focus: mobile app vs web application
This is probably the key difference when comparing FlutterFlow and Bubble. Bubble is the clear choice if you’re focused on web development. It’s mainly a no-code web app builder, and it’s designed to create apps that are hosted online and accessible from any web browser. If you’re looking to build something like a no-code app for eCommerce, social media, or a SaaS product that customers will use on their desktops, Bubble is mainly where you’ll want to focus your attention.
On the flip side, FlutterFlow excels in the mobile app world. It’s built on Flutter, which means you’re creating native apps that can be deployed to the Apple App Store and Google Play with ease. This is huge if you want users to download your app on their phones. But here’s a word of advice: if you’re primarily building a mobile experience, don’t try to force Bubble into that role – it’s just not built for mobile-first development.
So, which one should you choose? I’d say, if your audience lives on their mobile devices and expects that native app feel, FlutterFlow is the right no-code platform. But if you’re aiming to launch a web application and need all the customization and functionality that comes with a browser-based app, Bubble offers more flexibility on the web.
Code export and custom code integration
This is one area where FlutterFlow has a surprising edge. FlutterFlow allows you to export your project’s code as custom Flutter code. This is powerful because it means that if, down the line, you want to take things further with custom features or hire a developer to expand your app, you can. For many no-coders, being able to export the code provides a safety net. You’re not entirely locked into the platform, and you can “graduate” to more advanced development if needed.
Bubble, however, doesn’t offer code export. Once you build in Bubble, your app is pretty much married to its platform. This isn’t necessarily a deal-breaker if you’re focused solely on web applications and don’t anticipate a need for complex customizations. But if you’re thinking long-term and you’d like the option to tweak your app at the code level, FlutterFlow’s code export is a feature that might sway you.
Custom code integration is another big deal. FlutterFlow supports custom Flutter code in-app, so if you want to add advanced functionalities, you can bring in Flutter packages or write custom code snippets. It’s a nice touch, but bear in mind – some coding knowledge is required to fully leverage this. On the other hand, Bubble allows limited custom code using JavaScript and HTML. While not as flexible as a complete export option, it’s still helpful if you need specific tweaks within the Bubble environment. So, if future-proofing your app with custom code is a top priority, FlutterFlow is probably the right call.
Backend and database options
Choosing the right backend setup can make or break your app, and this is where Bubble and FlutterFlow approach things quite differently. Bubble has its own backend and database features built into the platform, which is convenient if you don’t want the hassle of managing third-party services. Bubble offers a comprehensive database and workflow setup within its ecosystem, which means you don’t need to integrate with another provider – it’s all there, ready to use. For someone just starting with no-code development, this setup simplifies the process and makes it easier to control database interactions and user permissions without leaving Bubble’s environment.
However, FlutterFlow integrates with Firebase and Supabase for its backend, which has its perks. Firebase is fast, scalable, and popular among mobile app developers. This setup is incredibly helpful if you’re aiming for high scalability or real-time data sync – think chat apps or live notifications. But remember, working with Firebase or Supabase means you’re managing two platforms: FlutterFlow for the frontend and your chosen backend provider. For some, this added complexity is worth it, especially if you’re aiming for a high-performance mobile app.
So, what’s the takeaway here? If you’re looking for an all-in-one backend solution where you don’t have to worry about backend setup, Bubble is easier to manage. But if you need powerful backend features and don’t mind working across platforms, FlutterFlow and Firebase make a solid team for scalable mobile applications.
Integrations and API
In a world where every app needs to “talk” to other apps, integrations and API flexibility are big. Let’s start with Bubble. It comes with an API Connector that’s like a gateway to almost any service you can think of. You can connect your Bubble app to third-party platforms like Google Sheets, Stripe, or even a custom API. The integration options are nearly limitless, and honestly, this API flexibility is one of Bubble’s standout features. Bubble also has plugins for popular tools, so you’re not reinventing the wheel – you just plug in and go.
FlutterFlow, while solid on integrations, is slightly more limited. FlutterFlow allows you to connect to APIs, but there’s a bit more manual setup involved compared to Bubble’s API Connector. Still, it’s compatible with major services like Google Analytics, Stripe, and Firebase for advanced functionalities. If you’re looking to add a more specialized integration, FlutterFlow will get you there, but it takes a bit more effort.
So, if your no-code app relies heavily on third-party integrations or advanced workflows, Bubble offers a smoother experience. But if you’re focused on building a mobile app with essential integrations and don’t mind a bit of configuration, FlutterFlow can hold its own. The difference here is really about how hands-on you’re willing to be and how essential those integrations are to your overall app development process.
SEO and web optimization capabilities
When it comes to SEO and web optimization, Bubble and FlutterFlow couldn’t be more different. Bubble is built for web applications, and as such, it offers a range of basic SEO tools right out of the box. You can set meta titles, descriptions, and keywords, and it even allows custom URLs and sitemaps – essentials for anyone serious about driving organic traffic. But here’s a bit of a reality check: Bubble’s SEO capabilities are functional but limited. For example, if you’re building a highly content-focused site, like a blog, you’ll likely hit some SEO roadblocks. Customization options for things like Open Graph tags or structured data can be tricky and require a bit of workaround.
FlutterFlow, on the other hand, wasn’t designed with SEO in mind at all. FlutterFlow apps are primarily native mobile applications, and as a result, SEO is pretty much irrelevant unless you’re building a web app version (and even then, it’s not its strong suit). If SEO is critical to your project – like if you’re building a no-code app that’s meant to rank on Google – Bubble is the better choice, hands down. But if you’re focused on mobile and plan to drive traffic through app stores rather than organic search, then FlutterFlow’s lack of SEO options won’t impact your project. The bottom line? If SEO is non-negotiable, choose Bubble. If your users are primarily on mobile, FlutterFlow is still in the game.
Scalability and performance for growing applications
Scalability is one of those buzzwords that everyone loves to throw around, but let’s get practical: it’s about handling more users, more data, and more complexity as your app grows. Between Bubble and FlutterFlow, there are important distinctions. Bubble makes it easy to start small and scale within its environment. For most no-code app development needs – especially early-stage MVPs and small to medium-sized projects – Bubble’s scalability is solid. You can start on a lower-tier plan and, as your user base grows, upgrade to handle more traffic and data without needing to migrate.
But here’s the catch: Bubble’s performance can lag if you push it too far. Complex workflows, heavy data loads, or high user volumes can sometimes lead to slower response times. I’ve seen this firsthand; when your app’s logic gets complicated, it can feel like the platform is dragging its feet. If you’re expecting explosive growth, keep this in mind – Bubble is a no-code platform with limits, and it doesn’t scale infinitely.
FlutterFlow, paired with Firebase or Supabase, takes a different approach. Because FlutterFlow integrates with Firebase, your backend is built to scale almost automatically. Firebase’s infrastructure is designed to handle massive loads, real-time data, and a huge number of concurrent users – perfect for a mobile app with rapid growth potential. But remember, Firebase scalability can also mean higher costs, so if you’re planning on scaling big, budget accordingly. If performance is a top priority and your app needs to scale without hiccups, FlutterFlow offers a more flexible and scalable approach, especially for mobile.
Pricing and plans
Both Bubble and FlutterFlow have free plans, which is a great starting point if you want to test the waters. But once you’re ready to go live, costs kick in. Bubble offers several pricing tiers, starting with a Starter plan at $29 per month, which is enough to launch simple MVPs. However, as soon as you need more functionality – like faster performance or increased storage – you’ll be looking at the Growth plan at $119/month or even the Team plan at $349/month. Bubble’s pricing ramps up quickly, so if you’re bootstrapping, you might find it a bit steep as your app matures.
FlutterFlow, on the other hand, starts with a free plan for basic builds, but you’ll need the Standard plan ($30/month) to download your code and publish. The Pro plan at $70/month unlocks features like localization, app store deployment, and integration with source control. And here’s where FlutterFlow provides a unique advantage: the Teams plan at $70/user/month adds collaboration features, which are handy if you’re working with a team. If you’re solo, though, that’s not necessarily a must.
So, which one is the right tool for your budget? If you’re building something simple on a shoestring, Bubble’s free plan lets you tinker without financial stress. But as you grow, those prices can add up fast. FlutterFlow offers more cost-effective scaling for mobile apps, especially with the option to export code and move to a code-based framework if you outgrow the no-code approach.
Community support and resources
One of the often overlooked aspects of choosing the right tool is the community. If you’re like me, you’ll quickly realize that having an active community is a game-changer. Bubble’s community is large and well-established. Their forums are packed with developers, resources, and free tutorials. There are also third-party educators and bloggers producing tons of content around Bubble, so you’re rarely without an answer to your questions. I’ve found Bubble’s community invaluable when troubleshooting – there’s almost always someone who’s tackled the exact issue you’re facing, so you’re not left in the dark.
FlutterFlow, meanwhile, has a smaller but rapidly growing community. The Flutter community itself is highly engaged, and because FlutterFlow is built on Flutter, you can tap into broader resources for Flutter if you need deeper help. FlutterFlow’s support includes a Discord group, forums, and even the occasional hackathon, which is a fun way to connect with other devs and spark new ideas. I’d say that if community support is a priority and you want a ton of resources at your fingertips, Bubble offers more maturity in this area. But if you’re all-in on mobile development, FlutterFlow’s community is tight-knit and focused, which can be a huge plus if you’re looking to learn specifically about mobile app development.
Pros and cons: choosing Flutterflow or Bubble
So let’s get down to it: which platform is right for you? Choosing between FlutterFlow or Bubble boils down to a few key factors. If you’re looking to build a web application with heavy customization, rich integrations, and need strong SEO capabilities, Bubble is mainly the tool you’re looking for. It’s built for the web, and its wide-ranging plugins and customization make it a go-to for web-focused projects. But with that flexibility comes a steeper learning curve, and if you’re scaling big, performance could become a limiting factor.
On the other hand, FlutterFlow excels in mobile app development. It’s optimized for creating native-like experiences on iOS and Android without requiring a line of code. The ability to export code and integrate Firebase makes it a fantastic choice if you plan on scaling a mobile app. But be aware: FlutterFlow’s lack of SEO and web optimization means it’s not ideal for web apps, and customization can be challenging if you need a unique UI. If you want to build a mobile app MVP, FlutterFlow is probably the way to go. Also, you may need the help of a developer at some point so you may want to check out our guide on outsourcing software development for startups.
So, which one should you choose? Here’s my honest advice: think long-term. Bubble is great if you’re focused on building a powerful no-code web app that doesn’t necessarily need to scale to massive levels. FlutterFlow, on the other hand, is more future-proof for mobile apps and gives you a smooth path to transition to custom development if needed.
Both tools are powerful, but they cater to different needs. Ultimately, the right no-code platform depends on whether you’re aiming for web or mobile dominance and how much flexibility you need in the future.
