As digitization spreads to all corners of the globe, computer programming remains one of the most sought-after professional skills. However, there has been a significant shift from relying solely on coding languages to creating software services for non-tech-savvy clients. These “no-code” tools promise to give people without a formal coding education the freedom to develop innovative websites and apps.
Although it takes coding skills to create no-code tools, people who use these programs don’t need to know a thing about Java, HTML, or CSS. Instead, the “citizen developers” who download no-code tools enjoy highly visual interfaces, dozens of integrations, and pre-made templates to start building from day one. Even professional Web developers love the flexibility and ease of use today’s no-code tools provide.
According to recent reports, the “no-code revolution” is already in full swing. For instance, analysts at Gartner suggest 80% of non-professional developers will use no-code or low-code applications before 2030. Research & Markets also claims the no-code and low-code industry will surpass $180 billion by the same year.
So, what does no-code mean, and why has it become so influential in the contemporary tech space? Also, what are the best tools people could use to start using no-code for professional or personal projects?
What Is No-Code?
To understand where “no-code” comes from, let’s quickly run through the history of computer programming. As many already know, the only way computers communicate is through strings of 0’s and 1’s known as “binary code.” Since it’s tedious and challenging for humans to write binary code effectively, developers started creating “coding languages” that use abstract human language to express binary commands. Programmers use these languages to express and translate countless commands into binary code. While there are dozens of influential coding languages, a few prominent examples include:
- JavaScript
- Python
- C++
- Java
- Go
- Swift
- Rust
Coding languages are fantastic for creating online applications, but there’s one big problem: they have a steep learning curve. Developers must spend a lot of time studying and practicing their chosen coding languages to gain adequate proficiency. Also, since learning a coding language is such a specialized skill, any non-technical person or business that wants to build online needs to rely on a dev team’s expertise.
The “no-code” industry emerged to make it easier for non-professionals to experience all of the benefits of coding without literally coding. Instead of writing long scripts in languages like Java or Python, no-code tools give users a highly visual platform with everything they need to create countless Web-based applications. Specifically, no-code tools use a Graphical User Interface to provide a simple and beginner-friendly “drag-and-drop” approach to creating websites, applications, and other Internet-based services. Since the learning curve for no-code is far lower than perfecting coding languages, it opens Web development to countless potential clients.
What Can You Do With No-Code?
No-code tools can create any software app you could imagine. Although the no-code industry is in its early stages, there are already hundreds of tools that give users more options to create various applications.
To give you a sense of the versatility of no-code tools, here’s a sampling of potential use cases for building websites and apps:
- Shopping & eCommerce portals: Many no-code tools help people build secure marketplaces with easy integrations to payment solutions like credit cards, Stripe, and PayPal. Tools such as Wix and Shopify have become well-known for offering simple ways to create secure and stylish shopping platforms.
- Project management and organization: No-code tools can keep businesses on track with task management and workflow features. These sites allow managers to set project goals and monitor progress all in one convenient place. Many no-code tools also help teams create proprietary task management apps to help with their specific industries.
- Game development: The gaming industry is one of the hottest segments of the entertainment industry with sales of roughly $138 billion per year. As more people get interested in making video games for fun or for sale, more no-code tools can make this a reality. Platforms like Gamify and GameSalad are a few sites that help everyone let their imaginations run wild and create dazzling digital games.
- Social media: Not only can no-code tools monitor and manage a company’s online profiles, they can also create full-fledged social media sites. For instance, a team of developers made headlines in 2020 for creating a Twitter clone called “Not Real Twitter” using Bubble’s no-code software. Whether people want to expand their social media campaigns or build new messaging platforms, no-code tools can help.
- Listing directories: Whenever you scroll through a job board or a real estate website, you’re using an online directory. If you’d like to build sites or apps that look and function like Redfin, Indeed, or Zillow, there are features in many no-code tools that can help. A few no-code websites offering directory-style templates include Notion, Airtable, and eDirectory.
Who Uses No-Code Tools?
No-code tools appeal to anyone who wants an easy way to build a website or app. Since you don’t need prior coding experience to use these tools, they are the most accessible apps in Web development. However, although these software tools are “beginner-friendly,” that doesn’t mean they’re only for newcomers. There are plenty of professional programmers and developers that make use of no-code tools when building online projects. Whether someone uses a no-code tool largely depends on the type of project they’re designing, their time constraints, and whether or not they feel comfortable coding it manually.
People who want the maximum convenience and speed when building an app or website often opt for no-code tools rather than coding from scratch. Although no-code tools are still new, they are user-friendly, cost-effective, and fast.
Is No-Code The Same As Low-Code?
When researching no-code tools, it’s common to find a few platforms that offer “low-code” features. There may even be a few tools that solely offer “low-code” functionalities. Although low-code tools have many of the same use cases as no-code platforms, they require some coding expertise. However, the programming knowledge necessary for a low-code tool is far less than manually coding an app.
Instead of solely relying on your coding chops, a low-code app will have some features to help make the process more user-friendly. For instance, low-code tools often have vast libraries of coding templates and highly visual functions like a “drag-and-drop” UI/UX. Some no-code tools have optional “low-code” features to help developers add their “personal flair” if they can’t find what they’re looking for in the no-code tool.
New customers should always verify their tool specifies whether it’s “no-code,” “low-code,” or both when shopping for different brands. Although these features are very similar and complementary, they aren’t ideal for every customer. You must have at least rudimentary coding skills in whichever languages a low-code tool supports. Non-programmers should stick with no-code programs.
No-Code vs. Zero-Code: What’s The Difference?
Unlike the term “low-code,” there’s no difference between “no-code” and “zero-code.” You may run across sites that use no-code and zero-code interchangeably because they refer to the same thing. As the name suggests, a “zero-code” tool is suitable for people with zero coding experience.
Different Types Of No-Code Tools
As mentioned above, no-code tools can take on many tasks. Plus, since the no-code industry continues to grow, the list of potential uses continues to expand each year. Here are a few common categories you’ll often find no-code tools grouped into:
- Website & app building: Arguably, the most common reason people get interested in no-code tools is to build a website or application from start to finish. While each no-code tool has different specifications, plenty of “blank canvas” programs like Bubble.io give non-coders free reign to design the app of their dreams. Whether people are interested in eCommerce, social media, gaming, or online directories, there’s a good chance there are no-code tools that can create professional apps and websites.
- Automation: Businesses can use no-code automation tools to streamline their operations. Systems like Automate.io can take care of many repetitive tasks that hamper a company’s scalability without requiring the services of a professional dev team.
- Data analytics: Besides automation, modern businesses need fast and simple ways to make sense of complex data. No-code tools such as Google Analytics can help teams visualize crucial statistics and calculate mountains of data without calling dev teams to create complex tailor-made apps.
- Internal workflows & organization: Digital workflow organizers are vital for the modern workplace. No-code workflow tools make it simple for everyone within a company to stay in contact and keep track of their tasks on one clean interface. As more businesses move to remote or hybrid working models, seamless workflow software will become even more essential.
- Voice recognition software: Alexa and Siri have become the butlers of the 21st century. Thanks to advances in voice recognition technology, it’s easy for anyone to ask a question or say a command and get an instant response from these savvy software servants. Amazingly, no-code platforms can empower everyone to integrate speech recognition into their app’s design. For instance, Otter.ai and Voiceflow offer ways to take advantage of advances in voice tech without spending hours perfecting your Python skills.
- Messaging features: The Internet (and particularly social media) has forever changed how people interact, share memories, and form social bonds. While no-code tools probably can’t scale to create another Facebook or WhatsApp, they can add impressive messaging capabilities to a team’s web design. Anyone interested in adding social media to their app or website will find plenty of no-code functions that make online communication simple.
- Customer care managers: Keeping in touch with customers and searching for new leads is critical no matter what business you’re involved in. Professional customer relationship management systems (CRMs) like Salesforce have become necessary for companies that want to expand their brand and grow their customer base. To help monitor and connect with clients, no-code tools can handle multiple customer-focused tasks like email engagement, social media reactions, and lead generation.
- File storage and organization: Similar to data analytics, no-code tools can help businesses keep superb online records. Sites like Caspio have become well known for their extensive cloud-based data file storage offerings. Professional no-code file storage solutions not only organize digital documents, they can secure sensitive data with advanced encryption technologies.
- API integrations: Application programming interfaces (APIs) help countless software apps securely share info. To add extra data flows or features to your website, no-code tools like NoCodeAPI or Xano offer simple API integrations with numerous sites.
What Are The Best No-Code Tools?
Since everyone has different preferences and needs, it’s impossible to say what the “best” no-code tool is. However, a few popular platforms have gained significant attention in recent years. To make it simpler to find a no-code tool for your situation, we’ve arranged the following tools into a few different categories. In reality, there’s a lot of crossover between many of these no-coding tools. For instance, some “website builders” have advanced eCommerce applications. That being said, the categories on this list highlight the core features of each no-code tool.
Website & app building
No-code tools allow everyone to create personalized Web domains and mobile applications. From simple one-page profiles to elaborate company portals, the following tools offer teams a fast and simple way to enter the Internet.
Bubble
Bubble often ranks as one of the best all-around no-code tools for creating websites and mobile apps. Since 2012, millions have used Bubble’s visual template to craft personal or customer-focused sites. Bubble takes care of both HTML and CSS coding, so clients only have to worry about designing their optimal online portal. Plus, since Bubble has been around since 2012, it has built an impressive list of plug-ins and app integrations users can take advantage of.
To help new customers get a feel for building on Bubble, anyone can access a demo template directly on Bubble’s homepage. Feel free to test all of Bubble’s tools to see whether it fits your strategy.
Although Bubble offers a free program, there are tiered subscription plans for those who want the full benefits of this platform. Currently, Bubble’s pricing model is as follows:
- Personal: $25 per month
- Professional: $115 per month
- Production: $475 per month
Webflow
Launched in 2013, Webflow has become one of the dominant no-code platforms for building stylish websites. With a Webflow account, anyone can start arranging their ideal website using the 100% visual Webflow Designer. Webflow automatically handles coding with HTML, Javascript, and CSS as you insert images, add links, and create headers. In addition to website building, Webflow has dozens of special features to drive online growth. A few extra features Webflow users get include SEO tools, eCommerce portals, and interactive animations.
Anyone can build their first website on Webflow for free, but customers need to pay a subscription to launch their site. Currently, Webflow offers the following pricing tiers:
- Basic: $14 per month
- CMS: $23 per month
- Business: $39 per month
Squarespace
Squarespace offers many of the same no-code services as Bubble and Webflow, but it has been in the business for significantly longer. Founded in 2004, Squarespace has built a solid reputation in the no-code industry for its straightforward drag-and-drop templates. At the start, this company only focused on helping people build blogs, but it has dramatically expanded its reach throughout the years. Whether you’re interested in building eCommerce portals, professional portfolios, videos, or email campaigns, a Squarespace account has plenty of options to develop your online strategy.
While you can test Squarespace’s primary tools for free, you’ll need to pay one of the following subscriptions to take full advantage of this site:
- Personal: $16 per month
- Business: $23 per month
- Commerce (Basic): $27 per month
- Commerce (Advanced): $49 per month
Softr
Softr brands itself as a “building block” no-coding tool. In other words, Softr puts all the data and integrations you need in clearly defined “blocks” that are easy to drag and drop wherever you want them on your website. Speaking of integrations, one feature that sets Softr apart from other tools is its close affiliation with Airtable. Anyone already using Airtable can instantly integrate their workflows into Softr’s software. Besides Airtable, Softr is working on linking to Google Sheets for streamlined work organization. While building a site with Softr, clients can also use resources from other applications like PayPal, MailChimp, and Calendly to make the app of their dreams.
Softr lets anyone create one custom domain with unlimited applications for free. Those who want to continue using Softr’s platform will need to pay one of the following subscriptions:
- Starter: $29 per month
- Professional: $79 per month
- Business: $199 per month
Carrd
Carrd.co is a fantastic free no-code tool for people who want a one-page website. Although you can’t build out a fully-fleshed website with Carrd, this platform is a great way to start experimenting with no-code. Many people use Carrd’s services to create professional online profiles or landing pages on desktop and mobile devices. Carrd has plenty of pre-made templates to make it easy for fresh no-coders to build a website. Alternatively, people can customize their profile page using Carrd’s template builder.
The best part about Carrd is that it’s 100% free. Carrd also has an optional “Pro” platform that costs $19 per year for those who want bonus features like Google Analytics, encrypted custom domains, and widgets.
Without Code (WoCode)
WoCode helps citizen developers create high-quality websites with hundreds of templates, text blocks, and sections with drag-and-drop functionality. However, don’t feel beholden to WoCode’s pre-generated portfolio to get started on your website’s design. Anyone on WoCode can start fresh with a blank canvas and build a site that works for them. While you’re building with WoCode, you’ll enjoy high-security standards with Amazon Web Services (AWS) and crucial data analytics like SEO to ensure your website has the best visibility.
Anyone can get a sense of WoCode’s offerings on a no-commitment 30-day free trial. Afterward, you could join the WoCode community for $16.25 per month.
Bravo Studio
Bravo Studio is a no-code mobile app platform focused on helping citizen developers unleash their creativity. Bravo Studio achieves this goal through seamless integrations with Adobe XD and Figma, so digital designers can hit the ground running by importing images for their iOS or Android apps. Bravo Studio also has a REST API anyone could use to pull their favorite data sources during the development phase. Before publishing your mobile app on the App Store or Google Play, you’ll have plenty of time to prototype different scenarios to ensure your app runs smoothly.
To get started, Bravo Studio offers a free account with full customer support and access to 15 app screens. People who enjoy Bravo Studio’s toolkit can choose from one of the following subscriptions:
- Pro: $20 per month
- Advanced: $95 per month
- Business: $215 per month
Google AppSheet
If you already use Google’s many free services, then Google AppSheet may be the best no-code app builder. As the name suggests, Google put together its AppSheet to develop mobile and desktop applications with zero coding experience. Since Google made this service, it instantly connects with Google Workspace applications and grants users access to valuable data, APIs, and third-party integrations. Once you’ve uploaded your data into the AppSheet Editor, you’ll enjoy a plethora of tools like UX customization, automation, and security to make your app. Google makes it super simple to get the most out of AppSheet through its simple on-site video tutorials called “How to Create an App,” each of which guides new users through the AppSheet ecosystem.
Google lets anyone test AppSheet for free for up to 10 days. Afterward, the pricing tiers are as follows:
- Starter: $5 per month
- Care: $10 per month
- Enterprise or Enterprise Plus: Negotiable prices
Adalo
Adalo is a St. Louis-based company that launched a no-code app builder in 2018. Today, Adalo estimates at least one million apps online use its simple drag-and-drop software. Like Bubble and Webflow, the Adalo platform makes it easy for new coders to customize their Web and mobile app experiences to suit their brand style. Adalo also allows users to instantly publish their iOS and Android apps and monitor data analytics.
The best part is that you don’t need to pay to post your first app using Adalo’s software. For no fee, you can create and launch one app on the Web thanks to Adalo’s free trial. If you’d like to continue using Adalo’s services, you’ll need to purchase one of the following subscriptions:
- Starter: $45 per month
- Professional: $65 per month
- Team: $200 per month
- Business: $250 per month
Wix
Wix.com is a versatile no-code platform that offers over 900 customizable & research-backed templates for individuals and businesses. Whether you want to create a blog, eCommerce portal, or mobile app, Wix has the tools to create a personalized and professional-quality experience. Wix also offers growth tools like email marketing, targeted social media ads, and client management portals to drive more traffic to your new Web domains.
A convenient feature of using Wix is that it grants new users access to over 100 templates free of charge. If you’d like to upgrade your Wix experience, you can subscribe to any of the following Website Builder plans:
- Combo: $16 per month
- Unlimited: $22 per month
- Pro: $27 per month
- VIP: $45 per month
Flutterflow
Flutterflow is a no-code & low-code tool with hundreds of templates and integrations to get you started designing a beautiful app. Like many other no-code platforms, you can easily drag and drop boxes in your Flutterflow workspace to develop an app that works for your clients or co-workers. It’s also easy for people with a Flutterflow account to comment on an app-in-development, view the source code, and make updates in collaboration mode. Flutterflow has plenty of testing features, bonus widgets, and connections to sources like Google Maps to create a phenomenal final product.
To see if Flutterflow’s design “flows” with your app development needs, you can try a free account to explore Flutterflow’s core functionalities and templates. To get more out of your Flutterflow experience, consider one of the following pricing tiers:
- Standard: $30 per month
- Pro: $70 per month
- Teams: $70 per user per month
Markup.io
When you’re building an app or website with a team or for a client, there are bound to be edit requests. Instead of sending dozens of emails back and forth, why not “leave a mark” directly on the app in question? With Markup.io, users can pinpoint what needs to be changed on up to 30 different file types. Once you link your Markup.io account to your webpage, click on the exact area you want to change and leave a comment for other team members. These simple “markups” make it easier to see what needs to be addressed while designing different webpages.
If you’d like to give Markup.io a try, you can opt for a free membership and enjoy 20 markups on one workspace. Afterward, you’ll need to upgrade to one of the following subscription models:
- Pro: $49 per month
- Enterprise: Custom pricing
MakerPad
Honestly, we probably should have started this list by mentioning MakerPad’s free no-code educational course. While MakerPad isn’t a no-code tool per se, it’s one of the most comprehensive databases for no-code education. People new to no-code can click the “Get Started” tab on MakerPad’s homepage to begin their journey into the technicalities of no-code.
Although “no-code” doesn’t involve literally coding, people still need practice and knowledge to make the most of all the tools on this list. Going through the MakerPad curriculum is an excellent way for new no-coders get their feet wet in this industry. As a bonus, MakerPad offers certifications for everyone who passes one of their courses.
Appy Pie
Appy Pie’s no-code “Appmakr” is helping millions of citizen developers design and deploy apps on Google Play and the App Store. Once you set up an account on Appy Pie, you’ll enjoy a highly visual platform to arrange and insert everything you want in your app. Appy Pie offers custom domain names, free chat widgets, and a unique Google Workspace to help teams collaborate on their projects. People who use Appy Pie can also take advantage of special features, including a non-fungible token (NFT) generator, student-focused app development courses, and a business generator for logos.
Currently, Appy Pie has two payment plans people can purchase to start using this tool:
- Start: $18 per month
- Grow: $36 per month
Stage.so
Stage is a no-code app builder that puts your design sense “center stage.” Since the Stage tool handles all the coding, you can focus solely on how your app looks to end users. Stage emphasizes offering adaptable templates with highly customizable colors, fonts, and other features that tell your brand’s story. You’ll also enjoy the freedom to prototype your Stage app dozens of times and collaborate with team members before going live.
To get started with the Stage software, you can sign up for a free program with one project and up to two editors. Stage also offers paid subscriptions in the following tiers:
- Professional: $15 per month
- Team: $49 per month
eCommerce
With no-code eCommerce tools, businesses no longer need to rely on Big Tech marketplaces to sell their products. Companies of all sizes now have the power to set up convenient virtual shops and reach a global audience.
Shopify
Shopify has become a leading all-in-one no-code tool for businesses that want to break into eCommerce. From setting up a desktop and mobile app to accepting payment via its POS portal, Shopify continues to connect millions of companies with customers. In addition to setting up a professional online shopping experience, Shopify helps clients grow their business with marketing and management tools such as Shopify Flow automation, Shopify Email campaigns, and Shopify Capital for funding business operations.
You can sign up for a free three-day trial to test out Shopify’s offerings. Afterward, you’ll have to set up an account using one of the following pricing tiers:
- Basic: $29 per year
- Shopify: $79 per year
- Advanced: $299 per year
BigCommerce
BigCommerce has been a “big” name in the eCommerce space since launching in Australia in 2009. Like Shopify, BigCommerce allows clients to set up virtual storefronts with zero coding experience. In addition to setting up online shops via BigCommerce, clients can use multiple integrations with other websites like Amazon, Facebook, and Google to help drive sales through their BigCommerce portals. BigCommerce offers numerous ways to analyze data on your online storefronts and adjust metrics such as SEO or checkout procedures to drive more traffic.
Anyone interested in the BigCommerce Essentials platform can test its services for 15 days without paying a fee. Afterward, you’ll need to choose one of the following offerings to keep using BigCommerce’s software:
- Standard: $29.95 per month
- Plus: $79.95 per month
- Pro: $299.95 per month
Square Online
Now known as “Block,” Square is a fintech giant well-known for its merchant payment solutions and Cash App mobile software. Although many businesses already know about Square for simplified in-person purchases, there are ways Square can help anyone expand their shopping experience online. For instance, the no-code “Square Online” platform instantly integrates with Square POS to offer a streamlined eCommerce experience.
From bars and restaurants to salons and gyms, Square Online has tools to build a custom eCommerce app for various business categories. Anyone can use Square Online to create a personalized shopping app that allows customers to order via long-distance shipping, in-store pickup, or local delivery services. Square Online also works with competing payment platforms like Apple Pay plus “Buy Now Pay Later” programs to give customers more options.
Anyone can start using Square Online to build an eCommerce portal for free, but you’ll need to pay one of the following subscriptions for bonus benefits:
- Plus: $29 per month
- Premium: $79 per month
Weebly
On the subject of Square, Weebly is another powerful eCommerce website builder connected to the Square payment ecosystem. Similar to other no-code website tools, customers can use a drag-and-drop system to create online marketplaces that speak to their brand identity. Weebly users also get access to customizable fonts, animations, video integrations, and low-code functions to add extra flair to their digital storefronts. For convenient monitoring, Weebly also has mobile apps on iOS and Android devices so you can keep tabs on how your websites are driving traffic.
You can sign up to Weebly for free to test its no-code offering, but you will have to pay a subscription to create online domains.
- Personal: $10 per month
- Professional: $12 per month
- Performance: $26 per month
Swell
Swell is another no-code eCommerce website builder that emphasizes its API integrations and subscription services. Once you sign up for Swell, you’ll have access to dozens of templates and a visual drag-and-drop set-up to create a no-code digital storefront. Swell also advertises a “flexible” API integration experience to analyze customer behavior and connect to your business workflows for transparent monitoring. In addition to online marketplaces and subscription-based models, Swell has solutions for those interested in B2B wholesale marketing. You could even design an omnichannel portal that handles everything in your eCommerce enterprise.
For those interested in building on Swell, you can sign up for free and create one online store. However, you’ll need to upgrade to one of the following plans for more customization options:
- Standard: $299 per month
- Enterprise: $3,000 per month
Deliverr
Deliverr is dedicated to “delivering” an Amazon-like shipping experience to businesses of all shapes and sizes. This no-code tool instantly integrates with your eCommerce portal to create fast shipping badges and offer guaranteed two-day deliveries through its advanced logistics networks. Whether you offer products on a Shopify site, Facebook Marketplace, eBay, or Instagram, you can take advantage of Deliverr’s fast-shipping pledge and storage facilities.
To store your items in a Deliverr location, you will have to pay at least $0.81 per cu. ft. per month. Deliverr also charges a low-end rate of $5.67 per unit for its two-day guarantee feature.
Internal workflows, automation, and organization
After companies start using no-code workflow tools, they never look back. Although Google Sheets and Excel are still around, it’s impossible for 21st-century employees to reach their peak efficiency without custom no-code apps, analytics, and integrations. Thankfully, there are countless options in the no-code workflow space to take your business operations to the next level.
Airtable
Since launching in 2012, Airtable has become a “database disruptor.” Although Airtable uses a Google Spreads-like structure, it has far more functionality and flexibility for people interested in automating workflows, creating and monitoring tasks, and recording data. Airtable describes itself as a “relational database,” meaning it helps team members seamlessly share data points across different segments and third-party applications in one platform. Airtable also gives everyone on a team the power to create tailor-made apps with no-code tools and templates.
Anyone interested in trying Airtable can test a free account with up to five creators. For more extensive operations, Airtable has the following payment plans:
- Plus: $12 per seat per month
- Pro: $20 per seat per month
- Enterprise: Custom pricing
ClickUp
ClickUp is a project management software that promises to help teams get work done faster. Or, as ClickUp puts it, they will “save” members “one day every week.” On ClickUp, teams can create folders, assign tasks, and track progress using intuitive drag-and-drop boxes. Project managers can set up various spaces within their company to organize different business segments and interact with team members throughout the workflow process. As a perk, ClickUp offers new clients 100 MB of storage plus unlimited tasks free of charge. There are also paid subscription plans in case you want to access more of ClickUp’s services:
- Unlimited: $5 per member per month
- Business: $12 per member per month
- Business Plus: $19 per member per month
- Enterprise: Custom pricing
Slack
In the modern workforce, “Slacking” has nothing to do with “slacking off!” Now a part of Salesforce, Slack is similar to an instant messaging tool, except it’s specifically designed for the contemporary workforce. With a Slack account, users can quickly drop a line to co-workers or chat directly using a phone-like system called “Huddles.” To streamline communication and productivity, Slack integrates with thousands of other workflow apps like Google Docs, Zoom, and, of course, Salesforce.
Slack lets new customers try its service for free with up to 90 days of messaging history. For people who enjoy using Slack’s service, its pricing plans are as follows:
- Pro: $7.25 per person per month
- Business Plus: $12.50 per person per month
- Enterprise Grid: Custom pricing
Asana
Created in 2008, Asana is an established project management software dedicated to keeping everyone in your organization on task. Similar to ClickUp, Asana uses an intuitive list, timeline, and kanban models that make it simple to assign tasks, set deadlines, and monitor workflows from one screen. You can also write in subtasks within larger projects to make it easier to achieve your goals step by step. Asana also has many custom templates and automation tools like “Rules” to both personalize and streamline your operations.
Asana offers a free plan with access to all of its essential features and basic workflows, as well as the following pricing plans:
- Premium: $13.49 per month
- Business: $30.49 per month
Monday.com
Monday.com is another project management tool designed to help teams create, assign, and monitor tasks in the cloud. On the surface, Monday.com works similarly to competitors such as ClickUp, but there are variations in Monday.com’s layout some users may find more intuitive. Monday.com also has a dedicated CRM platform to help businesses organize emails, capture leads, and keep tabs on their sales pipeline. Professional coders can also try out Monday.com’s “Dev” portal for assistance with developer-focused tasks such as bug monitoring, sprint management tools, and organizing any requested app updates.
To see whether Monday.com is the better choice for your workflow goals, you can test out a free account with three boards and over 200 templates. If you feel Monday.com is the optimal choice for you, consider the following pricing tiers:
- Basic: $8 per seat per month
- Standard: $10 per seat per month
- Pro: $16 per seat per month
- Enterprise: Custom pricing
Trello
Atlassian’s Trello is one of the most famous kanban-style project organization tools. Like many other workflow apps mentioned above, Trello makes it simple to create tasks in drag-and-drop boxes, assign them, and move them through different stages of completion. Although Trello has many advanced features like plug-ins and automation, teams tend to enjoy the simplicity of this app’s design. Trello may not be the optimal fit for large enterprises and complicated business structures, but it remains a popular choice with individuals and small-to-mid-sized teams interested in a streamlined project management software.
Trello offers a free plan with unlimited work cards and storage capabilities. If people outgrow Trello’s free plan, they could investigate the following pricing tiers:
- Standard: $5 per user per month
- Premium: $10 per user per month
- Enterprise: $17.50 per user per month
Notion
Notion is a unique product management tool with a deliberately minimalist aesthetic. Although Notion has countless tools for organization and productivity, it’s a highly responsive and flexible system for creating Docs, Wikis, or Tasks. Many people also use Notion’s integrations and note-taking tabs to record personal memos, set weekly goals, and embed inspiring videos or articles.
Since Notion’s “niche” is to help clients create the workflows they want, it provides greater customizability than many other project managers. So, anyone interested in controlling every aspect of their tasks from start to finish may jive with Notion’s style.
Notion offers a free program with seven day histories and ten guests if you’d like to explore this app. For those who enjoy using Notion, there are a few payment options:
- Plus: $8 per user per month
- Business: $15 per user per month
- Enterprise: Custom pricing
Zapier
Zapier is an automation and integration platform people can use to connect over 5,000 of the world’s most popular apps. With Zapier’s extensive toolkit, you can link every app you use in your workflow and program automated “if/then” statements to take care of routine tasks. Currently, the Zapier software targets businesses involved in IT, marketing, and sales operations sectors; however, you don’t need to be a multi-million corporation to make use of Zapier’s services. Plenty of startups and small business enterprises use Zapier’s no-code tool to streamline their business processes.
For no charge, Zapier lets anyone test its no-code editor and use 100 automated tasks per month. If you’d like to upgrade your Zapier experience, consider one of the following paid plans:
- Starter: $19.99 per month
- Professional: $49 per month
- Team: $399 per month
- Company: $799 per month
Make
Formerly called “Integromat,” Make is a no-code and low-code integration platform as a service (IpaaS) provider often compared to Zapier. Although Make has fewer app integrations than Zapier, it works with over 1,000 applications and has a highly visual layout to create workflows. Anyone can drag and drop app integrations onto one of Make’s templates to develop automatic processes. Make also “makes” it easy to share data flows with co-workers via APIs and review workflows with execution history reports and real-time monitoring.
Anyone interested in Make’s service can start with a free account that includes access to over 1,000 apps. To get more out of Make’s platform, consider one of the following payment plans:
- Core: $9 per month
- Pro: $16 per month
- Teams: $29 per month
- Enterprise: Custom pricing
Kissflow
Kissflow offers a no-code/low-code software for teams and businesses to design optimal online workflows. Similar to competitors like ClickUp and Trello, Kissflow has task boards, automated processes, and collaboration tools to assign, monitor, and chat with everyone on your team. The Kissflow platform lets citizen developers create custom apps with either code-free “drag-and-drop” functions or a low-code setting. Anyone who uses Kissflow can also access analytics and case management tools to analyze their business processes and make necessary adjustments.
Kissflow welcomes new users to take a free demo of their site to see if their features are a good fit. If so, you could choose one of the following pricing models to use the Kissflow app:
- Small business: $18 per user per month
- Corporate: $20 per user per month
- Enterprise: Custom pricing
Customer relationship managers (CRMs)
As technology advances, people’s expectations for customer service are becoming incredibly high. No-code CRM tools can help you quickly tackle issues and monitor consumer sentiment. By using one of these no-code solutions, you’ll have an easier time maintaining superb customer relations without spending so much of your time, energy, and resources.
Salesforce
In the world of CRMs, Salesforce is one of the most powerful sites for storing, sharing, and making sense of consumer data. With tools like Customer 360, Genie Customer Data Cloud, and Tableau, Salesforce helps clients in various industries communicate customer data, automate work processes, and develop data-driven strategies to keep customers happy while scaling operations. Since Salesforce has grown so large since its start in 2004, it has experience helping businesses in various industries—including automotive, healthcare, and manufacturing—deliver top-notch customer care. If you’re most interested in marketing, sales, and customer relations, Salesforce likely has a solution worth considering.
Salesforce has dozens of pricing models depending on the services you’re most interested in. However, most of Salesforce’s “Essentials” plans are in the $25 per month range.
MailChimp
Owned by Intuit, MailChimp is the “king kong” of automated email marketing services. With a MailChimp account, you can design personalized templates and content that align with your brand’s identity. MailChimp also helps target the customers you want to connect with and construct the perfect shopping journey.
Although email marketing is MailChimp’s key selling point, this no-code tool offers plenty of bonus features like data analytics and built-in integrations to improve your company’s performance. As a bonus, MailChimp offers a generous free program, so anyone can start tinkering with this site’s email templates.
For those who are impressed with MailChimp’s free offerings, the company offers paid subscriptions at the following price points:
- Essentials: $13 per month
- Standard: $20 per month
- Premium: $350 per month
Chatfuel
Chatfuel is a no-code AI tool offering chat box services to help businesses retain and attract customers. In addition to working through your central domain, Chatfuel handles customer service requests on both Instagram and Facebook Messenger so you never miss an opportunity to drive traffic to your site. Clients who use Chatfuel also get access to countless free templates to personalize their chat box features. Plus, Chatfuel can help create customized ads on all of Meta’s social media sites.
Chatfuel offers a free trial service for 30 days, after which you’ll need to join for one of the following prices:
- Entrepreneur: $14.99 per month
- Startup: $24.99 per month
- Small business: $59.99 per month
Caspio
Founded in 2000, Caspio is an established no-code/low-code platform for businesses that want to build custom apps. On the Caspio platform, team members can develop and share cloud-based apps in different departments using point-and-click functions and optional low-code features with Java, HTML, and SQL. Caspio uses AWS and Microsoft SQL to provide clients with high security and scalability standards. Clients can also store thousands of records and gigabytes of data using Caspio’s cloud servers. Similar to many other no-code tools on this list, Caspio integrates with dozens of other applications and APIs to make your online workflow as smooth as possible.
Caspio offers a free “lightweight” plan for people who want to see if this service is right for them. If you enjoy using Caspio’s free program, consider one of the following paid subscriptions:
- Explore: $150 per month
- Build: $300 per month
- Grow: $600 per month
- Corporate: Custom pricing
ZenDesk
ZenDesk is a software company dedicated to helping businesses improve their customer service departments. From emails and live chats to social media and standard ticketing, ZenDesk’s solutions help sales and customer care teams achieve peak efficiency. A ZenDesk account also includes over 1,000 integrations and dozens of collaboration tools to help employees share critical data and resolve customer issues. At every step of the online journey, ZenDesk provides businesses analytics and data points to help monitor their customer service results and make necessary adjustments.
ZenDesk has different pricing plans depending on the software solutions people want. Currently, ZenDesk’s Sales programs are as follows:
- Team: $19 per month
- Growth: $49 per month
- Professional: $99 per month
HubSpot
HubSpot promises to offer the only CRM software businesses need to scale their operations while keeping their customers happy. With the company’s “HubSpot CRM,” businesses can take advantage of features such as email marketing solutions, ticketing support, drag-and-drop editors for blog content, and data syncing. HubSpot also offers many specialized CRM tools for marketing, sales, and customer service teams.
An attractive feature of working with HubSpot is its generous free plan for new businesses. If you’re impressed with HubSpot’s free program, take the time to research the company’s various services and pricing tiers. Currently, prices for HubSpot’s different products range from $360 per month to $3,600 per month for individuals and enterprises.
Memberstack
Managing, monetizing, and maximizing online memberships can give companies and content creators a migraine! Although every business wants to grow its subscriber base, there are dozens of security considerations, payment integrations, and data flows to run a successful membership service. Thankfully, Memberstack offers plenty of software solutions to help clients grow their subscriber base and generate revenue organically.
Thanks to its close integrations with Webflow, it’s simple to plug in Memberstack’s services into a no-code website. From email verifications and multiple payment plug-ins to data encryption and metadata storage, Memberstack has plenty of resources to make it simple to securely sign up and submit payments for your service. Memberstack’s data analytics and app integrations also help managers review data on their pool of memberships and develop strategies to drive future growth.
Anyone can test Memberstack’s services for free, but you’ll need to pay for one of the following programs to use this software:
- Basic: $29 per month
- Professional: $49 per month
- Established: Custom pricing
MailerLite
If setting up emails and newsletters stresses you out, MailerLite can “lighten your load.” People with a MailerLite account enjoy access to no-code tools and templates to design clean email campaigns, subscriber notices, and landing pages to retain customers and drive traffic to your site. Thanks to MailerLite’s numerous integrations, it’s easy to link these email marketing tools to apps like PayPal and Stripe for convenient online payments. Customers can also create custom subscription forms, iPad apps, and eCommerce portals with MailerLite’s software. Plus, MailerLite has security features such as email verification to ensure your registration list is well-protected.
Anyone interested in using MailerLite can use this service for free if they have less than 1,000 subscribers. As your audience grows, you can opt for one of MailerLite’s tiered pricing plans. The amount you pay for a MailerLite account depends on how many subscribers you have, so be sure to contact MailerLite’s team for specific guidance.
Jotform
Creating, managing, and analyzing digital forms just got easier with Jotform. This no-code software focuses on helping users design and submit e-forms using dozens of pre-made templates for different scenarios. For instance, you can use Jotform to collect survey data on your latest product, onboard new employees, or organize registrations for an event. But Jotform’s services don’t stop at online form design. Jotform users can take advantage of hundreds more templates to build apps and online marketplaces. It’s also easy to manage tasks using Jotform’s table workflow system and add other tools such as MailChimp, PayPal, and Stripe.
To give Jotform a test run, you can create five forms free of charge on its “Starter” plan. Other Jotform plans include the following:
- Bronze: $39 per month
- Silver: $49 per month
- Gold: $129 per month
- Enterprise: Custom pricing
Creatio
Founded in 2013, Creatio is an established all-in-one no-code platform targeting business operations and CRM. According to Creatio’s slogan, it’s the only platform businesses will need to streamline all aspects of their operations (e.g., sales, marketing, and customer service). To achieve this goal, Creatio offers software services, including a no-code studio, data analytics, and automation tools for all aspects of your business. Creatio’s advanced AI and machine learning features ensure your in-house apps and programs consistently learn and grow as your team’s needs change and you scale your operation.
Anyone interested in Creatio’s services can request a complimentary demo or sign up for the company’s free account. Creatio also offers a paid Studio Enterprise plan for $25 per user per month.
Juphy
Anyone looking for a “social media manager” should check out what Juphy offers. This no-code software is focused on automating your social media interactions so you can stay connected with customers without spreading your time and resources too thin. With Juphy, you no longer need to log into multiple social media accounts to monitor and respond to thousands of requests. Juphy integrates with the most popular social media platforms, including YouTube, Instagram, and Twitter. On each of these sites, Juphy can handle dozens of functions, such as direct messaging, reactions, and responding to comments. Juphy can also sift through reviews on your apps or professional profiles on sites such as the App Store, Google Play, and LinkedIn, so you’re always on top of your online reputation.
Juphy currently offers a no-commitment seven-day trial to see how this product works for your social media accounts. Those who enjoy Juphy’s services can choose one of the following payment plans:
- Starter: $25 per user per month
- Growth: $45 per user per month.
Obviously.ai
As its domain name suggests, “Obviously.ai” uses the latest artificial intelligence (AI) tech to make future scenarios more, well, “obvious.” Using AI learning and prediction technologies, this no-code software tool helps businesses design AI scenarios and better forecast their future projected sales and costs. You can use Obviously.ai’s service to analyze countless situations and visualize the odds of future events. The predictive possibilities Obviously.ai points out may significantly reduce your expenses and help you better plan for future events.
Obviously.ai offers the following plans for those interested in integrating with this AI tool:
- Starter: $499 per month
- Growth: $1,099 per month
- Enterprise: Custom pricing
Zoho
Zoho is a comprehensive software platform with dozens of specific tools for different business segments, such as marketing, CRM, and sales. However, one feature that makes Zoho’s suite shine is its cloud-based Zoho One system. With this program, teams can store and share data within the Zoho ecosystem. Zoho also has a “Creator” portal where developers can use low-code and no-code solutions to create professional business applications.
Because Zoho’s platform has so many offerings, there are dozens of different payment plans depending on your area of interest. However, you can try most platforms for a free limited-time trial. As an example, the pricing for Zoho Creator is as follows:
- Professional: $25 per user per month
- Ultimate: $400 per user per month
Voice recognition software
Talking robots are no longer a far-fetched idea found in sci-fi films. Indeed, with the rise of services like Alexa and Siri, more people expect voice command functions at work and home. Although the no-code voice recognition field is still young, there are a few tools that can add this desirable feature to your projects.
Voiceflow
Voiceflow offers no-code services to set up professional quality AI conversations via phone and chatbox. In fact, chances are many customers have first-hand experience with a Voiceflow automated agent! Some of the world’s largest companies (e.g., Home Depot, Google, and McDonald’s) are on Voiceflow’s roster.
With Voiceflow’s advanced speech verification technology, you can take advantage of the latest innovations in speech recognition to set up smooth & automated customer care lines. Thanks to Voiceflow’s drag-and-drop technology, integrations, and team collaboration features, it’s easy for everyone to get involved in creating a chat box experience and prototyping it before launch.
Anyone interested in using Voiceflow’s offerings can use a free account to test its software. Currently, Voiceflow also offers the following paid subscription plans:
- Team: $40 per editor per month
- Enterprise: Custom pricing
Otter.ai
Don’t you ever wish you had a “virtual scribe” to monitor and record essential points during your meetings? Well, with Otter.ai, you can “hire” an AI assistant for your company! Otter.ai is an automated note-taking service that can track critical details in video conferences such as Zoom, Google Meet, and Microsoft Teams. This “virtual assistant” can also capture images in slides and share them to help everyone focus on their tasks. But it’s not just businesses that can benefit from Otter.ai’s services. In fact, Otter.ai offers plans for educators and individuals interested in boosting their memory, productivity, and time management.
You can set up a Basic Otter.ai account for free, but users have to pay one of the following prices to take advantage of this AI program’s full features:
- Pro: $16.99 per month
- Business: $30 per month
- Enterprises: Custom pricing
Picovoice.ai
Picovoice is an advanced voice recognition tool offering dozens of features to add the spoken word to your software. From voice commands and AI recording to speech-to-search and keyword capture, the Picovoice platform provides developers and customers with a type-free experience while building or navigating websites. Picovoice also offers support via GitHub and the option to write commands in coding languages while speaking.
Those interested in Picovoice’s offerings can try dozens of features for free, including its Voice Activity Detection software, transcription capabilities, and customizable voice commands. Those interested in using Picovoice’s full features need to purchase one of the following plans:
- Voice Assistant Starter: $899 per month
- Transcription & Search Starter: $999 per month
- Enterprise & Scale: Custom pricing
Game development
You may not be able to create a AAA game on a no-code platform, but some tools help non-coders get their feet wet in this field. Whether you want to add games to your business strategy or create a side project for fun, consider exploring these no-code tools in the video game space.
Gamify
If you’re interested in company-focused gaming features, Gamify’s “Gizmo” tool may help you achieve your goals. This innovative platform allows brands to create interactive game experiences without learning a line of code. Unlike no-code website builders, Gizmo helps non-developers create engaging games for desktop and mobile applications. It’s also easy to use the Gizmo toolkit to add custom rewards, leaderboards, and loyalty points to keep customers coming back. Big brands such as Wendy’s, KFC, and the BBC have already used Gamify’s Gizmo service to create addictive games without hiring a team of devs.
Those interested in using Gamify’s services can pay for one of the following subscriptions:
- Simple: $49 per month
- Pro: $79 per month
- Elite: $99 per month
GDevelop.io
If you’ve always had the “itch” to create a game from start to finish, consider looking into GDevelop.io’s no-code tool. The GDevelop team made a completely open-source platform to design the graphics, sound effects, and dialogues in a fully-fledged game without learning languages like JavaScript. Once you’ve completed your game on GDevelop’s platform, you can publish it on major gaming sites like Google Play, the App Store, and Steam.
Although it’s free to use GDevelop’s software, there are paid subscription plans for those who want more custom features:
- Silver: $5.50 per month
- Gold: $10.75 per month
GameSalad
GameSalad is a no-code game development tool that helps developers of all skill levels create and deploy 2D video games. In addition to assisting new game creators with a visual no-code layout, the GameSalad platform has many educational opportunities for new coders. Anyone interested in strengthening their coding skills can use the GameSalad Learn@Home program to understand the intricacies of game development. GameSalad lets developers share their projects on app stores like Google Play once they’ve finished their game.
GameSalad now offers three pricing tiers for anyone interested in using their services:
- GameSalad Home Edu: $8 per month
- GameSalad Basic: $17 per month
- GameSalad Pro: $25 per month
How To Choose The Perfect No-Code Tool?
As you start reading about the exciting features of today’s no-code platforms, you may feel the urge to add every tool to your software arsenal. Although many individuals and businesses benefit from various no-code app integrations, not every software fits a team’s needs. Before diving into the no-code market, it’s essential to define your goals and what you’re looking for in a program. For instance, are you most interested in automating your workflows and improving company communication? On the other hand, are you a small business that wants powerful eCommerce-focused tools?
If you take the time to write your “non-negotiable” features, it will help you narrow down your list of no-code solutions. Once you have a shortlist of potential no-code options, it’s time to compare pricing and features before making a final decision.
Luckily for new customers, many no-code tools offer free basic memberships, demos, or a no-commitment trial period. Anyone new to no-code should take advantage of as many of these perks as possible to get a hands-on feel for different platforms. After a few weeks of testing a few no-code tools, you should have a sense of which sites are the best fit for you and your team’s preferences.
Make No-Code Tools A Part Of Your Web Strategy
It’s easy to see the attraction of no-code and low-code tools. Although these applications won’t put developers out of work, they dramatically reduce the need for businesses, individuals, and startups to rely on dev departments. No-code tools let everyone design, show off, and compete in the digital marketplace. From building one-page bios and fun 2D games to fleshing out a fully-fledged website or eCommerce portal, the possibilities for no-code app development are growing. Everyone can benefit from exploring many of today’s no-code solutions to find options that suit their strategy.