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Appsmith vs Budibase

A side-by-side comparison of two open-source tools to help you choose the right one.

Feature
SummaryBuild internal tools, fast.Low-code apps and workflows in minutes.
GitHub stars37K24K
LicenseApache 2.0GPL 3.0
LanguageTypeScriptSvelte
PricingFree & Open SourceFree & Open Source
Self-hostable
ReplacesRetool, AirtableRetool, Airtable
Rating4.5 / 54.4 / 5

Appsmith features

  • Drag-and-drop UI builder
  • Connect to databases, REST, and GraphQL
  • JavaScript anywhere for logic
  • Git-based version control
  • Role-based access and self-hosting

Budibase features

  • Built-in database or external connections
  • Drag-and-drop app designer
  • Automations and workflows
  • Forms and approval flows
  • Self-hosted with SSO

Appsmithpros & cons

Pros

  • Truly open Retool alternative
  • Connects to almost anything
  • Git workflow for apps

Cons

  • Complex apps need JS knowledge
  • Editor can feel heavy

Budibasepros & cons

Pros

  • Very fast app creation
  • Internal DB lowers setup friction
  • Clean automations builder

Cons

  • Less flexible than code-first tools
  • Some connectors are premium

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