Bubble vs Flutterflow: Which No-Code Platform is Best for Building Apps in 2025

Bubble vs Flutterflow: Which No-Code Platform is Best for Building Apps in 2025

Introduction

The expansion of no code platform has transformed the software development segment, enabling businesses to build feature-rich apps without creating a robust database and writing long codes. According to statista, the global low code segment is estimated to reach US $65 billion by 2027. Considering this expansion, no-code platforms like FlutterFlow and Bubble are increasingly utilized by developers to build industry-leading applications. While Bubble is mainly focussing on web application development and FlutterFlow help in cross-platform app development without compromising on quality and ensuring optimized performance.

Both Bubble app development and Flutterflow platform fulfill specific business needs. But which platform is most suitable for your business needs? With this detailed comparison, you can understand the advanced capabilities of the no code app development platforms.

What is Bubble?

Bubble.io is a no-code web app development platform that helps in building high performing solutions without writing a code. It offers a reliable and no-code approach to build dynamic and fully functional websites with visually appealing design and smooth UI.

Pros of Bubble App Development

1. No-code Friendly

Bubble building complex apps become easy, and it saves time in writing code. It is ideal for non-tech founders, MVPs, and interactive prototypes. With its visual editor, users can easily drag and drop elements to create workflows and build database structure without using HTML, CSS and JavaScript.

2. All-in-one Platform

It helps in managing multiple tools and services by utilizing built in database capabilities, backend logic, API integration, and smooth hosting. This reduces the need for various tools and services, enabling a faster development cycle.

3. Flexible Workflow

It helps build complex business logic and implement condition-based actions visually. It helps in triggering actions based on user inputs and helps in setting up conditions to modify the app flow dynamically. With the Bubble framework, you can customize an app and establish its workflow based on user interactions.

4. Large Plugin Marketplace

Bubble has a rich plugin ecosystem with both free and paid options that leads to time saving by using pre-built components. These plugins help you in boosting app functionality like payment processing, maps and data management. It also allows integration of popular tools like Stripe, Google Maps, Airtable and others.

5. Strong Community and Learning Resources

Bubble has a supportive community and has extensive documentation including forums, templates and tutorials that assist beginners to start the development process quickly. The user base constantly shares tips, templates, feedback and potential solutions. Bubble academy and YouTube tutorials provide structured learning solutions that help beginners in building high performing solutions.

Cons of Bubble App Development

1. No Native Mobile App Support

Bubble primarily builds responsive web apps but not native mobile apps (those built with Swift or Kotlin). But you can build your Bubble app using third-party tools (example, BDK or Natively) or design it to perform like a mobile application in the browser. But currently it is in Beta version, in coming time developers will be able to build native apps smoothly using Bubble.

2. Performance and Scalability Issue

Bubble is a great approach for MVPs and simple apps with limited functionalities and features, as it might not support large databases and complex apps. Apps with complex workflows or large databases can slow down, and scaling requires upgrading it to more expansive pricing plans. Additionally, backend logic and database queries are not easily optimized as it is done with traditional coded applications.

3. Lack of Responsiveness

Designing responsive and user-friendly apps in Bubble can be challenging and time consuming because its visual editor uses drag and drop layout that is not always adaptable across various devices. Optimizing it for mobile, tablet and desktop often requires manual adjustments and edits. But Bubble has improved this with a new responsive engine, but it requires expertise to utilize it to the fullest.

4. No Code Export

Bubble apps run on Bubble’s cloud infrastructure, and you cannot export the code (HTML, CSS or JS) to host on another platform. Additionally, if there is any change in Bubble pricing structure, your solution also gets affected, and you cannot migrate the Bubble app on another platform without rebuilding the app from scratch.

What is FlutterFlow?

Flutter Flow is a visual development platform by the Flutter framework of Google, created specifically to build cross-platform apps. Flutter is used for its advanced capabilities like high performance and native like performance for both Android and iOS platforms.  With the advanced capabilities of FlutterFlow,  developers can use its no-code approach that help them to deliver complex and feature-rich apps easily.

The most standout features of Flutter Flow involve exporting clean and structured code structures that allow easy customization. This enables developers to leverage the advantage of no-code and traditional development approach. Flutter Flow also provides enhanced integration with Google services which help in maintaining real time database, security and authentication.

Pros of FlutterFlow

Cross-Platform Native Apps

FlutterFlow allows for native app development for both iOS and Android with a single codebase. Since it is built on Flutter, apps developed from FlutterFlow perform smoothly and are responsive across platforms.

Smooth Code Export

Unlike other low code tools that doesnt allow to export code, FlutterFlow allows smooth and secured export of code structure. This indicates that Flutter developers can continue their development process outside the platform when required and integrate it to a larger project.

User-Friendly UI Design

The drag-and-drop approach provides an intuitive and visually appealing design with real time previews. This helps designers and non-coders to build a responsive user interface by following Flutter’s design principles.

Firebase Integration

FlutterFlow offers built-in support for Firebase and enables advanced features like real-time databases, authentication, Firestore, and cloud functions without making extensive configurations.

Custom Functions & Logic

Despite being a low code platform, FlutterFlow supports custom Dart code which help developers in implementing complex logics. This makes it more flexible compared to any other no-code tool.

Cons of FlutterFlow App Development

More technical than Bubble

Compared to Bubble, which is fully no-code, FlutterFlow can be more technical and requires an understanding of development approaches. Developers require basic understanding of some Dart and app architecture concepts, specifically

Limited Backend Tools

FlutterFlow has a robust frontend and Firebase integration but it is not a full backend solution. It lacks extensive tools and approaches for backend logic, complex APIs and data modeling as compared to other platforms like Appgyver or Xano.

Restricted Plugin Ecosystem

The plugin library of FlutterFlow is limited, which restricts the implementation of comprehensive functionalities smoothly. But developers can manually integrate third party apps and tools to implement the required features.

Paid Features Like Code Export

FlutterFlow provides code export, custom domain selection and GitHub integration but it requires a paid plan which restricts small businesses with limited budgets.

Essential Features of Bubble and FlutterFlow

Essential Features of Bubble and FlutterFlow

Both FlutterFlow and Bubble app development platforms are the most popular no-code app builders that enable developers to use drag and drop features and build high performing apps. The essential features of Bubble and FlutterFlow are mentioned below:

Features of FlutterFlow

Responsive Design

It helps in designing UIs that adjust well on mobile, tablet and desktop using simple drag-and-drop tools and constraint features.

Template Screens

With pre-made screens and built in templates, developers can create a high-quality solution faster and keep the UI the same for different platforms.

Firebase Integration

By offering support for Firestore and Firebase, backend configuration becomes fast and can easily scale up for real-time apps.

Deployment Options

Developers can deploy apps on iOS, Android and Web platforms. Web apps also provide an opportunity to implement custom domains.

Custom Functions

Developers can use Dart programming, ready-made elements or community modules to add their own logic to the app and implement required features.

History Logs

With the advanced feature of maintaining logs, FlutterFlow developers can check what updates have been made to a project and restore earlier revisions whenever they’re helpful.

Third-party Integrations

FlutterFlow developers can leverage tools such as Algolia (search), PayPal/Braintree (payment), Google AdMob (ads) and others through the REST API (GET and POST).

Code Export

Copy the complete Flutter project and keep coding in natively supported IDEs such as Android Studio or VS Code.

Cross-Platform Development

Build an app only once with a single architecture and design for different platforms. And then, you can easily deploy it to iOS, Android, the Web or Desktop.

Features of Bubble.io

Easy to Build Message Boards

Bubble provides tools where developers can build message boards that help users or team members to message each other or hold discussions straight from the app.

eCommerce Features

With Bubble, developers can implement e-commerce features like providing shopping carts, listings of products and checkout processes, suitable for online shops and online marketplaces.

User Management

Handling login, authentication, user roles and password management happen right within the app, not through external services.

Collaboration

Groups consisting of up to 40 people are able to edit the same project at the same time by using access control and versioning tools.

Dynamic Content

Allows information to be updated as you use it and customized. Apps are designed to adjust their content as the user’s actions change, and new data becomes available.

Database Scalability

Bubble features an optimized database which can handle apps with lots of users or many features.

Comparison of FlutterFlow vs Bubble

There are diverse No code app development platforms available in the market. FlutterFlow and Bubble are the most widely utilized platforms to build feature-rich apps quickly with real time data management. But it is important to understand the capabilities and features of both to determine which one is better for business, startups and emerging enterprises.

1. Overview of FlutterFlow and Bubble

Bubble

Bubble.io is the best no code web app builder launched for public use in 2012. Despite being a web-based development platform, Bubble provides extensive functionalities and tools to build full-proof web applications. When developing with Bubble, the application can be hosted on Bubble platform and doesn’t support code export functionalities which leads to redevelopment of the application when you need to migrate the Bubble app.

FlutterFlow

FlutterFlow is a low-code app development platform by Flutter to provide a more convenient solution to build an app smoothly. It allows users to access source code for the app to customize the coding structure beyond the capabilities of visual editors.

2. Design and UI Capabilities

Bubble

The visual editor of Bubble helps developers to build full proof and feature-rich web applications with drag and drop facilities, eliminating coding requirements. It is an ideal approach to build fully functional prototypes quickly, run testing of prototypes, and launch the first version of the app smoothly.

FlutterFlow

The UI capabilities of FlutterFlow provide drag and drop functionalities to design and build visually appealing web and mobile apps. It offers a wide range of pre-built templates, components, UI widgets, and advanced designing approaches to build custom platforms. FlutterFlow app builder also provides interactive prototyping with animations, transitions and gestures.

3. Performance and Scalability

Bubble

When choosing an ideal app development platform, performance is a necessary factor.  Bubble applications are robust and provide high-tech security but have performance limitations as apps scale with changes in internal workflows and an increase in data flow. Bubble has a huge community of experts and a wide range of templates and plugins that assist in implementing required features and functionalities easily.

FlutterFlow

FlutterFlow excels in providing enhanced performance in native mobile apps and cross-platform applications due to its integration with the Flutter development framework. It offers native-like performance and seamless user experience by utilizing Flutter capabilities. Additionally, it is suitable to build high performing mobile apps by ensuring scalability to handle growing user base.

4. Use Case

Bubble

Bubble web app builder is ideal for internal tools, SaaS apps, and marketplaces to provide streamlined solutions. It provides built-in database development and secured API connectors with strong logic, clear workflow, and conditions.

FlutterFlow

FlutterFlow is ideal for the development of cross-platform apps for iOS, Android, or web platforms. It has diverse Firebase integrations and robust actions with custom backend capabilities.

5. Selection

When to Choose FlutterFlow

1. Require Native Mobile App

FlutterFlow compiles native code for both Android and iOS to build performance intensive apps for real time chat, animations and using camera. It also helps in building apps for native device access like GPS, sensors, Bluetooth, etc by establishing smooth integration solutions.

Additionally, FlutterFlow provides easy deployment on Apple App Store or Google Play based on the requirement. This helps developers in building native apps and cross platform apps depending upon the project requirements.

2. Enhanced Developer Control and Code Export Functionality

FlutterFlow provides enhanced access to Flutter/Dart code which allows freedom to migrate from one platform to another without any redevelopment efforts. In addition to that, FlutterFlow web builder also provides easy integration with custom APIs, SDKs, and third-party services, enabling flexibility to implement extended functionalities into the app.

When to Choose Bubble

1. MVP for Web App Development

Bubble is designed for MVP development without writing lengthy code. It is ideal to validate startup ideas with minimal investment. Additionally, it helps in creating user portals, dashboards, internal tools and marketplaces.

2. Internal Tools and Dashboard

Startups and emerging businesses use Bubble app development for custom internal tools like CRMs, inventory systems, or analytics dashboards. These tools mainly require tailored features with growing data needs. Bubble delivers high quality solutions quickly with required integrations.

3. Cost Conscious Business

Hiring Bubble developers provides cost efficiency and reduced operational costs for startups and budget constrained businesses. With Bubble, it becomes easy to drastically reduce development costs by minimizing the need to build a large development team.

Quick Comparisons of FlutterFlow and Bubble App Development Platforms

Feature FlutterFlow Bubble
Type Low code (visual builder + Dart/Flutter code) No-code (visual builder + workflows)
Platform Focus Mobile-first (iOS/Android); also supports web Web-first (responsive web apps); mobile via third-party wrappers
Primary Use Case Mobile app development Web application development
Technology Stack Built on Flutter for cross-platform apps Built on its own proprietary architecture
Target Users Developers, technical founders, and dev teams Entrepreneurs, non-tech founders, MVP builders
Visual Interface Drag-and-drop UI builder Visual editor with drag and drop workflows and design tools
Customization High customization with code options and source code export Extensive customization via workflows and plugins
Performance High performance with native-like speed Performance can vary; slower with complex apps
Code Export Yes (full Flutter/Dart source code) No (platform-locked, closed-source)
Hosting Optional (can host on your own or external backend) Mandatory (Bubble handles hosting internally)
Database Integration Firebase, Supabase, MySQL, REST APIs Built-in database and external API integrations
Deployment Direct deployment to app stores and web Web deployment with custom domain support
Learning Curve Moderate (requires some dev knowledge for advanced use) Low (easy for beginners and non-technical users)
Community Support Growing community with solid documentation Larger, mature community with extensive resources
Templates & Plugins Moderate selection, better for technical users Wide variety, very user-friendly for non-technical users
Responsive Design Strong support for mobile responsiveness (native design) Good responsive design, but setup is more manual
Real-Time Collaboration Limited collaboration tools Robust collaboration tools and team management features
Pricing Model Freemium with paid plans starting at $12/month Freemium with paid plans starting at $29/month
User Roles & Permissions Basic role management Advanced user roles and permissions built-in
SEO Capabilities Limited SEO (focused on app store presence) Strong SEO capabilities for web visibility
Version Control Basic version tracking Advanced version control with deployment workflows
Testing Tools Basic in-app testing tools Built-in debugging, preview, server logs and testing features
Offline Functionality Limited (requires additional setup for offline access) No native offline support (web-based, requires internet)
Scalability Depends on backend choice (e.g., Firebase/Supabase scaling) Scales well with Bubble’s built-in infrastructure and tuning options

Conclusion

Selecting an ideal development platform from Bubble vs FlutterFlow becomes hard when you are unable to adapt to their capabilities, features and basics. It is important to understand which no-code development platform is most suitable for your business. Recently, one of the clients from the USA approached us for a feature rich and optimized web app for their e-commerce business. Our experienced Bubble developers have delivered top-notch web apps that align with their business. You can also hire dedicated Bubble developers to build web apps with an engaging user interface.

FAQs

FlutterFlow is better for mobile app development. It generates native code for both iOS and Android platforms, supports platform-specific features and offers smooth UI/UX compared to Bubble, which is primarily web focused.

Bubble is considered beginner-friendly for non-technical founders specifically who want to build web apps. FlutterFlow has a steeper learning curve due to its UI structure and mobile app logic, but it’s more accessible to designers and those familiar with Figma or Flutter.

Bubble app development is ideal to build MVPs quickly. This helps developers to offer rapid development and iteration without building coding structures.

Bubble is more suitable for internal web tools, admin panels, and dashboards due to its native web responsiveness and built-in backend capabilities.