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Appsmith vs Retool: Which One is Better in 2025?

Choosing between Appsmith and Retool? Dive into our detailed analysis to make an informed decision for your design and frontend needs.

In the rapidly evolving landscape of low-code development platforms, Appsmith and Retool have emerged as two prominent contenders. This article delves into a detailed comparison of their features, pricing, and limitations.

Whether you're a developer seeking efficiency or a business aiming for agility, understanding the nuances of these platforms can guide you in making an informed decision. Let's explore how Appsmith and Retool stack up against each other.

Overview of Appsmith and Retool

What is Appsmith?

Appsmith

Appsmith is an open-source low-code application platform that enables users to build custom applications quickly and securely. It offers broad data source connectivity, drag-and-drop UI building, and complete JavaScript customization.

Key features include the ability to connect to various databases and APIs, create responsive UIs with pre-built widgets, and customize applications using JavaScript. Additionally, Appsmith supports CI/CD integration with Git and provides enterprise-level security and governance features.

What is Retool?

Retool

Retool is a platform designed to help developers build custom internal software quickly and efficiently. It enables seamless connection to databases, building with elegant components, and customization with code.

Main features include integration with REST or GraphQL APIs, over 100 extensible React components, and support for various programming languages like SQL, JavaScript, and Python. Retool also offers robust debugging tools, Git-based version control, and flexible deployment options.

Features of Appsmith & Retool

Similarities

Both Appsmith and Retool offer a range of features that cater to developers looking to build custom applications efficiently.

  • Data Source Connectivity: Both platforms support integration with various databases and APIs, enabling seamless data management.
  • Drag-and-Drop UI Building: Users can create responsive user interfaces using pre-built widgets and components.
  • Customization with Code: Both platforms allow extensive customization using JavaScript, SQL, and other programming languages.
  • Version Control: Integration with Git for version control and collaboration is available on both platforms.
  • Security and Governance: Enterprise-level security features, including SSO and role-based access controls, are provided by both Appsmith and Retool.

Differences

Here are the most significant differences in features between Appsmith and Retool:

  • AI Assistance: Appsmith offers AI-driven assistance for building applications, while Retool does not.
  • Custom Widgets: Appsmith allows the creation of custom widgets using JS/HTML/CSS, a feature not available in Retool.
  • Embeddable Apps: Appsmith can be embedded within existing applications, whereas Retool does not support this functionality.
  • Pre-Built Actions: Retool provides pre-built actions for rapid development, which Appsmith lacks.
  • Granular Permissions: Retool offers more detailed data-level permissions compared to Appsmith's role-based access controls.

Pricing of Appsmith & Retool

Appsmith Pricing

Appsmith offers a range of pricing plans designed to cater to different user needs, from individual developers to large enterprises.

  • Free Plan: $0
    • Up to 5 users for cloud
    • 5 workspaces
    • Version control with Git (3 repos)
    • Google SSO
    • 3 standard roles for access control
    • Public apps
    • Community support
  • Business Plan: $15 / Month per user
    • Everything in Free, plus:
    • Up to 99 users
    • Unlimited environments, Git repos, and workspaces
    • Workflows
    • Reusable packages
    • Custom roles and access controls
    • Audit logs
    • Remove “Powered by Appsmith” branding
    • Email/chat support
  • Enterprise Plan: $2,500 / Month for 100 users
    • Everything in Business, plus:
    • SAML / OIDC SSO
    • User provisioning and group sync through SCIM
    • CI/CD
    • Private app embedding with shared logins
    • Airgapped edition
    • Managed hosting option
    • Custom integrations
    • Dedicated support and SLAs

Retool Pricing

Retool offers a variety of pricing plans tailored to meet the needs of different users, from individual developers to large enterprises.

  • Free Plan: $0/month
    • Unlimited web & mobile apps
    • 500 workflow runs/month
    • 5GB of data storage
    • Up to 5 users
  • Team Plan: $10/month per standard user, $5/month per end user
    • Everything in Free, plus...
    • 5,000 workflow runs/month
    • Staging environment
    • App release versions
    • More than 5 users
  • Business Plan: $50/month per standard user, $15/month per end user
    • Everything in Team, plus...
    • Audit logging
    • Rich permission controls
    • Portals and embedded apps
    • Unlimited environments
    • Unlimited modules
    • Access to external user pricing
    • Custom Branding
  • Enterprise Plan: Custom pricing
    • Everything in Business, plus...
    • SAML / OpenID Connect SSO
    • Source control
    • Error monitoring and observability
    • Full white-labeling
    • Independent workspaces
    • Platform APIs and workflow triggers
    • Volume-based discounts
    • Dedicated support

Reviews of Appsmith & Retool

Appsmith Reviews

Overall, users have given Appsmith a mixed reception, with an average rating of 3.8 out of 5. While some appreciate its features, others find certain aspects frustrating.

"The platform is powerful but can be slow at times, which hampers productivity." - John D., 3/5

"Customization options are great, but the learning curve is steep for new users." - Sarah K., 3.5/5

Retool Reviews

Retool has received mixed reviews from users, with an overall rating of 3.9 out of 5. While some users appreciate its functionality, others have found it challenging to use and lacking in certain areas.

"The interface is not very intuitive, making it difficult for new users to get started." - Alex P., 3/5

"While powerful, the platform can be buggy and slow, which affects productivity." - Jamie L., 3.5/5

Subframe, a Better Alternative to Appsmith and Retool

Subframe

Subframe is a code-first design tool that enables users to build user interfaces quickly and efficiently. It features a drag-and-drop visual editor, real-time collaboration, and pixel-perfect React + Tailwind code, making it an ideal solution for designers and developers aiming to streamline their UI design process.

Pros of Subframe

Subframe is a code-first design tool that enables users to build user interfaces quickly and efficiently.

  • Design with real components: Subframe's visual UI editor allows users to drag-and-drop on an intuitive, responsive canvas, ensuring pixel-perfect UI every time.
  • Stunning UI templates: Inspired by world-class products and hand-crafted by designers, Subframe offers hundreds of reusable components, so you never start from scratch.
  • High-quality code generation: Subframe enables users to copy and paste front-end code, allowing more time for building and less time on pixel-pushing CSS.
  • Real-time collaboration: The platform supports real-time collaboration, making it easier for designers and developers to work together seamlessly.
  • Free to start: Subframe offers a free plan with no credit card required, allowing users to start building UI visually without any upfront cost.

Subframe's Pricing

At Subframe, we offer flexible pricing plans to suit your needs:

  • Free Plan: $0 per user/month
    • 1 project
    • Up to 3 page designs
    • Up to 3 team members
    • 200+ UI templates & snippets
  • Pro Plan: $29 per user/month
    • Up to 3 projects
    • Unlimited page designs
    • Unlimited team members
    • Custom components
    • 200+ UI templates & snippets
  • Custom Plan: Let's talk
    • Unlimited projects
    • Unlimited page designs
    • Custom fonts
    • Integrate your own components
    • Dedicated Slack support
    • Figma plugin

For more details, visit our pricing page. Ready to see Subframe in action? Book a demo with us today!

What Are Others Saying?

Users have given Subframe an overall rating of 5 out of 5. They particularly appreciate its ease of use, high-quality code generation, and the efficiency it brings to UI design.

  • "I love how easy this is to get started, especially with templates." - Dakota
  • "Turning ideas into code is one of the most critical tasks I've ever had. Subframe is super useful and user-friendly." - Germán Merlo
  • "Now this I like. Congratulations. Finally something that's not just a mockup." - Aris Nakos

Why Choose Appsmith, Retool or Subframe?

If you prioritize open-source flexibility and extensive customization options, Appsmith might be the better choice for you. It's ideal for developers and IT teams who need a developer-first platform with robust security features and broad data source connectivity.

On the other hand, if you need a platform with extensive integrations and a comprehensive suite of developer tools, Retool could be your go-to. It's perfect for enterprises and startups that require secure, scalable solutions and the ability to build, debug, and deploy custom internal applications quickly.

However, if you're looking for a tool that combines simplicity with high-quality code generation, Subframe stands out. It's designed for designers and developers who want to build pixel-perfect UIs efficiently, making it an excellent choice for those who value real-time collaboration and a streamlined design process.

Appsmith, Retool, or Subframe: Which is The Best Tool For You?

Choosing between Appsmith, Retool, and Subframe ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences. Each platform offers unique strengths that cater to different aspects of application and UI development. Whether you prioritize open-source flexibility, extensive integrations, or a streamlined design process, there's a tool for you.

However, if you're looking for a solution that combines ease of use with high-quality code generation, we recommend giving Subframe a try. With its intuitive drag-and-drop editor, real-time collaboration, and pixel-perfect React + Tailwind code, Subframe is designed to make UI design both efficient and enjoyable. Start building your next project with Subframe today and experience the difference.

Join thousands of happy builders.

Subframe lets you build stunning UI with beautifully crafted components and a drag-and-drop visual editor.