Building custom software from scratch is no longer a complex task, thanks to low code platforms. There was a time when only large, well-established enterprises could afford to hire big developer teams and spend months developing custom software for their brand. But today’s modern world offers low code platforms as innovative solutions that empower businesses of all sizes—from small startups to large enterprises—to build software quickly and efficiently.
So, if you wait for months to traditionally build your custom software, then you will be crushed by your competition. But no worries, we have got you covered!
This is where a low-code development platform comes in. These low-code platforms are tools that any business can use to build robust and feature-rich software applications for their brand with very minimal coding.
In fact, a recent study shows that using low-code platforms helps businesses reduce software application development time up to 90%. It is a huge difference these platforms have made for development.
That is why most of the new businesses are now choosing low-code platforms for their custom software development due to their numerous benefits.
But the real challenge is that thousands of low-code platforms are available in the market. Which one is right for you?
In this guide, we will break down:
- What is a low-code development platform
- How do they compare to traditional development
- Essential features you should look for
- Explore 12+ top low-code platforms
- Factors to choose the right one
So, without any further delay, let us dive in!
What is a Low-Code Platform?
Low-code development platform is a tool that allows companies to build their software application with low or no coding using a drag-and-drop builder and pre-built templates.
It is an easy-to-use platform, especially created for those companies that lack technical skills but want to develop a software application for their brand. These low-code platforms allow the development process to become faster and simpler like never before.
Whether you need to develop internal tools, dashboards, customer portals, and automation of workflow, these low-code platforms enable you to do it without even writing a single line of code.
With low-code platforms, the application development process is accelerated, and the cost is minimized, as well as enabling your team to work on other important things.
Plus, it is a more beneficial tool for those with some coding knowledge because these platforms also allow you to write custom code when needed, as per your business needs for advanced customization.
Low Code vs Traditional Code Development Comparison
Here is the key difference between low-code and traditional code development processes:
| Factor | Low-Code Development | Traditional Code Development |
| Development Time | Apps can be built in days or weeks using visual tools. | Apps usually take months to build from the ground up. |
| Technical Skills Needed | Business teams or non-developers can build apps with little training. | Only experienced developers can build and maintain the apps. |
| Customization & Flexibility | You can customize apps, but only within the platform’s limits. | You can build anything exactly the way you want. |
| Cost of Development | Lower cost due to faster development and smaller teams. | Higher cost due to longer timelines and larger, skilled teams. |
| Time to Launch | Great for quickly testing or launching business tools. | Slower to launch due to detailed coding and testing. |
| Scalability | Suitable for small to mid-sized needs; some platforms scale further. | Fully scalable and customizable for large business needs. |
| Security & Compliance | Most platforms include basic built-in security features. | Security is custom-built for your exact business requirements. |
| Maintenance & Updates | Easy to update with drag-and-drop tools and minimal coding. | Updates are complex and require developer time and testing. |
| Best For | Companies that need fast, budget-friendly tools for daily operations. | Companies that need complex, custom-built systems for long-term use. |
12+ Best Low-Code Platforms – A Detailed Comparison in 2025
Let us explore the top 12+ low-code development platforms, including their features, pros, and cons.
1. Zoho Creator
Zoho Creator is one of the most budget-friendly but advanced feature-based low-code platforms. It allows users to build custom web and mobile applications using a drag-and-drop builder without relying heavily on technical teams.
It is part of the larger Zoho suite, so it works well with other Zoho products like CRM, Books, and Mail, making it especially useful for small to mid-sized businesses already using that ecosystem.
You can build all kinds of apps with this platform, from OS-specific apps to custom CRM. Plus, it offers AI-powered capabilities to build app functionalities with a few clicks.
Some big brands like BigBasket, BharatPe, ITC Limited, and Whirlpool have used Zoho Creator to build custom apps.
Key Features:
- Workflow Automation
- Drag-and-drop builder
- UI Customization
- Seamless Integration with Zoho Ecosystem
- Pre-built Templates
- Multi-device apps
Best For: Small to mid-sized businesses needing affordable, easy-to-build web and mobile apps with strong integration into the Zoho ecosystem.
2. Appian
Appian is a powerful low-code platform designed for large enterprises with complex processes.
With Appian, you can build apps, streamline end-to-end workflows, and automate repetitive, complex tasks without heavy coding while maintaining strict control over data, security, and compliance.
A wide range of pre-built templates and drag-and-drop editors are available to build apps. It is built for serious back-end automation, internal tools, and data-intensive systems that must run efficiently and securely.
It is used chiefly in regulated industries like healthcare, finance, and government. Appian is all you need for your scalable enterprise if you want more in less.
Key Features:
- Drag-and-drop interface
- Workflow and process automation
- Real-time Reporting and analytics
- Third-party integration
- High-security standards
- AI and ML capabilities
- Collaboration tools
Best For: Best for large enterprises in regulated industries like healthcare or finance, looking to automate complex processes with strict compliance and security.
3. OutSystems
OutSystems is an enterprise-level full-stack, low-code platform popularly known for its robust capabilities and functionalities.
It allows businesses to build both the front-end and back-end of any applike order management systems, mobile banking apps, or self-service portals—all from one platform.
For enterprises, OutSystems can replace old systems, automate manual tasks, or build apps with beautiful, responsive designs for any device.
It is designed for speed, flexibility, and complete control over your application’s front-end and back-end. Also, it is used in manufacturing, banking, and insurance industries to build complex, business-critical applications faster.
Key Features:
- Rapid Application Development
- Extensive Integration Capabilities
- Enterprise-Level Security
- One-click deployment
- AI-assisted development
- Advanced process automation
- Pre-built templates and UI components
- Real-time monitoring and analytics
- Offline capabilities
- Seamless third-party integrations
Best For: Best for enterprises needing to build scalable, full-stack web and mobile applications with advanced backend and integration capabilities.
4. Mendix
If you want to turn your software ideas into reality, Mendix is a well-known platform with low-code no-code development capabilities.
It provides everything a business needs to build a feature-rich app without coding. It is designed for teams that want to launch apps fast while still having the flexibility to customize them as needed.
Plus, it supports cloud deployment, real-time collaboration, and offline mobile functionality.
From building a customer portal, internal dashboard, or an IoT application, Mendix offers tools for the full development lifecycle.
Some big organizations like Siemens, Fugro, and KOC University have used Mendix for app development. It is one of the top choices for large-scale enterprises.
Key Features:
- AI-Powered Development
- Cloud & On-Premises Flexibility
- Reusable Components
- Drag and drop builder
- Seamless Integration with various data sources and APIs
- Visual modeling tools
- Automated testing and deployment options
- Scalable architecture
Best For: Best for teams that want to collaborate across business and IT to build flexible, cloud-native apps quickly—ideal for large-scale digital initiatives.
5. Microsoft Power Apps
Microsoft Power Apps is the easiest and most popular low-code development platform, which is designed to quickly build modern applications with its drag-and-drop tools, prebuilt connectors, and AI-powered features.
It can seamlessly integrate with Microsoft products like Office 365, SharePoint, Dynamics 365, and Power BI. So, it is the best choice for those businesses that operate within the Microsoft ecosystem.
From building internal apps and streamlining data management to automating workflows, Microsoft Power Apps is a one-stop solution for areas like sales, HR, finance, operations, or field teams.
However, this platform has restricted complex customization and lacks advanced backend capabilities making it suitable for only small to midsize businesses.
Overall, it is a cost-effective and practical solution for companies already using the Microsoft ecosystem and looking to extend their internal capabilities.
Key Features:
- Drag-and-drop builder
- AI capabilities
- Mobile-First Design
- Pre-built templates and AI models
- Workflow automation
- Strong integration with Microsoft products
- Cross-platform support
- Extensive Connectors
- Analytics and reporting dashboard
Best For: Best for businesses already using Microsoft 365 looking to build simple internal apps, automate workflows, and extend productivity tools.
6. Retool
When the main aim for businesses is to build internal tools quickly, retooling is considered the best solution.
This low-code app development platform comes with over 100 prebuilt elements like tables, charts, forms, and buttons and a complete developer environment, so they can create powerful apps without starting from scratch.
Retool helps teams build internal software in just days instead of weeks. Businesses from startups to Fortune 500 companies use Retool to create tools like admin panels, CRUD apps, API front-ends, support dashboards, and customer portals—often within just a few days.
You can also connect to APIs and databases and even build on your existing systems with complete control over how your tools work.
Retool is not built for public-facing apps. It focuses purely on internal use, making it perfect for companies that need internal dashboards, data entry tools, or approval systems.
Some big companies like Amazon, DoorDash, FOX, and Brex use Retool for internal tools development with minimal coding efforts.
Key Features:
- Drag-and-Drop Builder
- Extensive Component Library
- Robust integration with databases and APIs
- Pre-built components
- Workflow automation
- Multiple documentation
Best For: For developer teams needing to rapidly build powerful internal tools like admin panels and dashboards with complete control over code and data.
7. Appsmith
Another popular low-code development platform for building internal business tools is Appsmith.
It is designed to help teams quickly build internal business tools like dashboards, admin panels, database apps, approval systems, and customer support interfaces without starting from scratch.
It offers 45+ drag-and-drop widgets, 18+ built-in integrations, and a JavaScript editor for adding custom logic. One of Appsmith’s most significant advantages is flexibility. You can self-host it on your servers, access the complete source code, and avoid vendor lock-in.
Some big companies like Dropbox, GSK, AWS, and ByteDance trust Appsmith for internal business tools development.
More than 10,000+ development teams use Appsmith for free, flexible, and developer-first solutions without extensive coding.
Key Features:
- Free and open-source
- Visual UI Builder
- Extensive Data Source Integrations
- Built-in Role-Based Access Control (RBAC)
- Git-based version control
- Built-in JS editor
- AI-assistance
- Pre-built customizable templates
- Active community support
- Customizable widgets
Best For: Best for technical teams who want to build open-source internal tools with full customization, self-hosting, and zero vendor lock-in.
8. DronaHQ
DronaHQ is a low-code development platform that helps users quickly build modern, responsive applications with minimal coding. It offers a drag-and-drop builder for both developers and non-developers to build apps.
Whether you need internal tools, workflows, forms, or dashboards, DronaHQ makes developing and launching them easy. The apps built with DronaHQ work smoothly across mobile and tablet and are fully optimized for users.
It also offers a secure cloud environment, role-based access control, and ready-to-use components, making it a strong option for companies that launch apps fast while maintaining control over data and user access.
Key Features:
- Seamless third-party API integrations
- Pre-built templates and layouts
- AI assistance
- Enterprise-grade security
- Workflows and process automation
- Custom Code Flexibility
- One-Click Deployment
- Universal Access
Best For: Best for companies wanting to launch responsive internal apps and dashboards quickly across mobile and desktop with minimal coding.
9. Superblocks
Superblocks is an enterprise-level focused low-code platform. It is designed to build internal apps that improve the efficiency of their operations.
It offers drag-and-drop components, JavaScript support, and easy integration with databases, APIs, and third-party services, which gives businesses complete control over app functionality.
Some big organizations like Alchemy, HiBob, Moveworks, and Payhawk used Superblocks to build secure and efficient internal apps.
Superblocks can build custom internal apps much faster and tailored for business needs, from dashboards and approval tools to back-office apps.
Key Features:
- Visual Drag-and-Drop Interface
- Customizable Components
- Role-Based Access Control
- Extensive Integrations
- Git-version control
- Cross-platform accessibility
- Automated testing
Best For: Best for enterprise developers building secure, scalable internal apps that require profound backend logic, API integrations, and observability.
10. Salesforce Lightning
Salesforce Lightning is a low-code platform that lets Salesforce users build custom apps for desktop and mobile—without writing code.
Unlike other low-code platforms that run on any cloud or environment, this platform works specifically inside the Salesforce ecosystem.
It is designed to extend and personalize your Salesforce setup with tools like drag-and-drop builders, prebuilt components, and easy integrations.
With Lightning, you can create apps to manage customer data, automate sales processes, and improve team workflows. It also supports fast, secure app deployment with tools like Force.com and Heroku.
It is best suited for companies already using Salesforce that want more control and flexibility without needing a whole development team.
Key Features:
- Lightning Page Builder
- Quick App Development
- AI and Automation
- Customizable Dashboards
- Prebuilt CRM integrations
- Seamless integration with Salesforce products and third-party apps
- Active user community and resources
Best For: For Salesforce users who want to build custom CRM apps and automate sales or support workflows directly within the Salesforce environment.
11. Oracle APEX
Oracle APEX is a low-code platform that helps developers quickly build secure, scalable web, mobile, and desktop apps—on the cloud or on-premises- with minimal coding.
It is mainly for businesses already using Oracle databases. From building new cloud apps, turning spreadsheets into apps, creating reports, or building internal tools, Oracle APEX makes the process efficient and straightforward.
With its drag-and-drop builder, ready-to-use templates, and visual components, APEX can eliminate up to 98% of manual coding. Oracle, a global leader in enterprise technology, backs it.
Some well-known companies like Siemens Mobility, Vodafone, and Syneos Health use Oracle APEX to build custom apps.
Key Features:
- World-Class UI
- AI-Powered Assistance
- Integration with Oracle Services
- Fully Customizable Themes
- Workflow automation
- Rapid Application Development
- Data Visualization and Reporting
Best For: Best for businesses already using Oracle databases that need to build secure, data-driven internal apps or convert spreadsheets into full apps.
12. Nintex
Nintex is a cloud-based low-code platform that helps businesses automate, streamline, and improve time-consuming tasks like document generation and approvals.
It connects easily with tools like Office 365, Salesforce, SharePoint, and Google Drive, making it an excellent fit for companies already using those systems.
With its drag-and-drop tools, users can create workflows and digital forms, automate documents, and even develop simple mobile apps without writing code.
Nintex is a strong choice for businesses looking to save time, reduce manual work, and improve operational efficiency without heavy coding.
Key Features:
- Drag-and-drop development
- Integration with Existing Systems
- Advanced Reporting and Analytics
- Extensive Use-Case Library
- Strong Security Measures
- Over 400 pre-built connectors
- Document Generation
Best For: Best for teams aiming to automate repetitive tasks and document workflows—ideal for HR, finance, and operations with no coding required.
13. Bubble
Bubble.io is a low-code platform that allows businesses for custom web app development with writing prompts.
Using a simple drag-and-drop interface, users can design pages, set up workflows, and manage data—all through a visual builder.
From beginner to advanced developers, Bubble has no-code tools and custom coding options so that you can create anything from basic apps to advanced feature-rich applications in one place.
It is excellent for quickly designing and launching apps like marketplaces, dashboards, or SaaS products.
While Bubble offers excellent flexibility, it can become slower with very complex apps, and some users may face challenges when scaling to a larger audience.
Key Features:
- Drag-and-Drop Interface
- Responsive Design
- Extensibility with Plugins and API Integrations
- No-Code Development
- Real-Time Data Interactivity
- Collaboration tools
- Rapid Prototyping and Deployment
Best For: Best for startups and solo founders looking to launch full-featured web apps like marketplaces or SaaS platforms without hiring a dev team.
Must-have Low-Code Platform Features
Here are some must-have features of low-code platforms:
Drag-and-Drop Builder
This feature lets you build apps by dragging items—like buttons, forms, charts—onto a canvas. You do not need to write code. It is a visual, easy way to design your app how you want.
Pre-Built Templates
Many platforms have ready-made templates for everyday use cases like CRMs, dashboards, or approval systems. These save you time and give you a head start, especially helpful if you are unsure where to begin.
Workflow and Process Automation
You can automate routine tasks, like sending email notifications, updating records, or assigning approvals. It helps reduce manual work, speeds things up, and ensures fewer errors.
Easy Integrations with Other Tools
A good low-code platform should easily connect to the tools you already use—like Salesforce, Google Sheets, or your internal database. This way, your app can pull in or push out real-time data without manual updates.
Cross-Platform Compatibility
Your app should work seamlessly on all devices—desktops, tablets, and mobile phones—without building separate versions. This ensures a smooth experience for your team and customers, wherever they are.
Advanced Reporting & Analytics
Built-in reporting tools let you track app usage, monitor performance, and understand how users interact with your app. This helps you make smarter decisions and improve over time.
Built-in Collaboration Tools
Teamwork is easier when everyone can work on the same app, share access, and track changes. Features like version control and user roles make collaboration smooth, secure and organized.
Security and Compliance
Protecting your data is critical. Look for features like user authentication, data encryption, role-based access, and compliance support (like GDPR or HIPAA). These keep your business and customer data safe.
Benefits of Using Low-Code Platforms
Here are some key benefits of using low-code platforms:
- Faster Development: Low-code platforms let you build apps quickly using drag-and-drop tools and ready-made templates. This helps businesses launch solutions much quicker than traditional coding.
- Greater Flexibility: You can easily make changes or updates to your app as your business grows or user needs change—no need to rebuild from scratch every time.
- Lower Development Costs: Because you spend less time coding and need fewer developers, your overall development costs are reduced. Maintenance is also easier and more affordable.
- Improved Team Collaboration: Business teams and IT can work together on the same platform. This helps ensure the app meets both technical requirements and real business goals.
- Better User Experience: Low-code tools let you quickly test and improve the app’s interface. This helps deliver apps that are easier to use and more aligned with users’ needs.
- Empowers Non-Developers: Non-technical employees (citizen developers) can create simple apps independently. This reduces IT backlog and speeds up digital transformation.
- Built-in Security and Compliance: Most platforms include features like user roles, authentication, and data protection to help keep your apps secure and compliant with regulations.
- Scalable and Easy to Maintain: Low-code apps can grow with your business. The platforms make updating features or fixing bugs easy without complex processes.
How to Pick the Right Low-Code Platform For Your Business?
Here are some key factors you can consider to choosing the right low-code platform:
- Understand Your Business Needs: Know what kind of apps you want to build, who will use them, and what problems you are solving. This helps you choose a platform that fits your goals.
- Look for Customization Options: Make sure the platform lets you tweak features, connect with your current tools, and build apps that match how your business works.
- Compare Features: Check if the platform has the tools you need—like drag-and-drop builders, automation, templates, integrations, and security controls.
- Evaluate Support & Community: A strong support team and active user community can save you time. Look for platforms with tutorials, help docs, and responsive customer service.
- Check Scalability: Pick a platform that can grow with your business, whether that means more users, bigger apps, or more data.
- Budget: Look at the full cost, including plans, add-ons, and support fees. Choose something that gives value without stretching your budget.
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Conclusion
A low-code development platform is changing the way businesses build software. Whether you are a startup trying to launch fast or a large enterprise looking to automate internal processes, there is a low-code solution that fits your needs. However, businesses find it challenging to choose the right platform from thousands of options. We hope this guide helps you understand the role of low-code and 12+ low-code platforms that are picked based on popularity, features, and benefits. Now, it is your turn to compare all these tools and find the right one for your business.
Still any confusion? Let our DreamSoft4U AI experts provide guidance and help you make the right decision for your business growth and scalability. Contact Us today!
FAQs
Q.1. Who should use low-code platforms?
Businesses of all sizes—from startups to enterprises—can use low-code platforms. They are great for teams that want to build apps quickly without relying entirely on developers.
Q2. Can I build complex apps using low-code tools?
Low-code platforms like OutSystems, Mendix, and Appian support advanced features, custom logic, and deep integrations—perfect for building complex, enterprise-level apps.
Q3. What types of apps can I build with low-code platforms?
You can build internal tools, mobile apps, dashboards, CRMs, customer portals, approval workflows, and even complete web applications.
Q4. Do I need a developer to use a low-code platform?
Not always. Many platforms are designed for non-developers, too. But for building more advanced or customized apps, having a developer can be helpful.
Q5. What is the future of low-code platforms?
Low-code platforms are growing fast. As businesses need apps quicker and at a lower cost, these tools will become more powerful, flexible, and widely used, especially in digital transformation efforts.
