Your Top 12 Open Source No Code Platforms: A Quick Guide

As entrepreneurs, solopreneurs, and business owners look for ways to expand their reach more quickly and efficiently, many choose to use open-source no-code platforms. Open Source No Code Platforms provide users with an environment that is incredibly versatile, user-friendly, and cost-effective for creating native apps, customized websites, web applications, and mobile apps like in app stores in a fraction of the time it would take if one had to start from scratch.

Do you have a digital product idea but not the coding experience to bring it to life? 

Your Top 12 Open Source Code Platforms are here! Our quick guide can help take your projects from concept to completion without any time spent in a code editor. Explore the best drag-and-drop builders today and discover how easy it is to launch your digital products.

Say goodbye to spending hours trying to learn complex coding languages so that you can develop your website or apps. With our quick guide, get ready for speedier development with only minimal effort on your part. You don’t need prior programming knowledge; pick up one of these open-source no-code platforms or no-code app maker or builders and start seeing results quickly!  

Check out this article now and find out which platform is right for you!

What is Open Source with no code?

A no-code platform is an easy and fast alternative to more traditional software development approaches. An open-source no-code development platform is a platform by which the source code is free and available to download and deploy by the end-user, where that user can edit and upgrade the code as they see fit.

Its authors, usually part of a community or group, make its source code available to others who would like to view that code, copy it, learn from it, alter it, or share it. It includes a family of tools that will take you from end to end on the development and deployment of applications using a visual interface.

Most of the time, it’s drag-and-drop and sometimes even node-based, which allows you to program actions and functions using flow charts and other diagrams.

Here are the Top 12 Most Popular Open Source No-code Platforms:

You may have a specific use case for your no-code requirement, so we have reviewed a few different platforms that specialize in their respective areas, including application development, automation, enterprise rivals, websites, and the Internet of Things:

1. Bubble.io – The best way to build web apps without coding. Click here!
2. Budibase – OS for the best application development
3. Joget – Simple and effective open-source platforms
4. GoLess – No-Code Browser Automation
5. Convertigo – The First Open Source Enterprise no-code platform
6. Huginn – Create and manage Zaps, just like Zapier
7. StackStorm – Enterprise Platform Without The Costs
8. WordPress – Trusted by the Best
9. REI3 – Best for Small to Medium Businesses
10. Base row – Manage and Create online databases with this app
11. Node-Red – IoT OS System
12. PyCaret – Machine Learning Platform

Through utilizing a user interface, it appeals and caters to not only developers but also citizen non-developers who are interested in creating either an MVP or a fully developed and deployed application.

No-code does allow for minimal hand-coding if it is desired. However, the application’s underlying functionality depends upon the infrastructure laid down underneath the user interface.

The statistics below provide an overview of the scale of the no-code market:

• Accelerated adoption of no-code platforms will change how teams organize, and Forrester predicts that in 2021, 75% of application development will use no-code platforms (source).
• Gartner Forecasts Worldwide Low-Code Development Technologies Market will increase 2020 by 22.6% in 2021 (source).
• According to the market research study published by P&S Intelligence, the global no-code market will witness a 31.1% CAGR during 2020–2030 to reach $187.0 billion by 2030 (source).

The industry and the ecosystem are growing at an increasing pace. The prevalence of citizen development and the reduced cost of no-code platforms to deploy will support this growth right into the late 2020s.

What is an Open-Source No-Code Development Platform?

A typical no-code development platform environment consists of these characteristics:

1. Drag and drop interfaces allow for easy development processes.
2. A visual modeling tool that allows you to create the UIs, data models, and functionality with the option to add in hand-written code when needed.
3. Connectors that handle the data structures, retrieval, and storage.
4. Out-of-the-box functionality allows you to skip building your core modules from scratch and instead focus on building new code.
5. Automated application lifecycle manager that allows for App building, deploying, debugging, and the staging and production process. Testing is possible here as well.
6. While no code software generally follows these guidelines, no two no code software are alike and designed to cater to specific functionality.

Additionally, suppose you are wondering what is no code software. In that case, you should know that it is (no code app builder) software specifically designed for business owners and citizen developers who do not have a coding background.

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Why use Open-Source No-Code?

An open-source no-code development platform is an open-source solution that allows the user to create applications via a drag-and-drop interface, minimizing the amount of code required to write and maintain. Open-source no-code platforms are usually free. However, some platforms provide enterprise-grade features for a reasonable fee.

What’s the difference between closed and open-source software?

Some software has source code that only the person, team, or organization who created it—and maintains exclusive control—can modify. People call this kind of software “proprietary” or “closed source” software.

Only the original authors of proprietary software can legally copy, inspect, and alter that software. To use proprietary software, computer users must agree (usually by signing a license displayed the first time they run this software) that they will not do anything with the software that the software’s authors have not expressly permitted. Microsoft Office and Adobe Photoshop are examples of proprietary software.

Open-source software is different. Its authors make its source code available to others who would like to view that code, copy it, learn from it, alter it, or share it.

The Pros and Cons of an Open Source No-Code Platform

Pros of No Code	Cons of No Code
Flexibility: Flexibility is a critical feature supporting this software deployment method for open-source software. Depending on the developer resources they have access to, the end-user has ultimate customization potential without the worry of terms and conditions breached by the company.	Support and Warranty Limitations: As the open-source product is not profit or commercially-driven, user support could be managed by the community or contractors who specialize in the product. This leads to disparate and often incomplete knowledge based on the product.
Control: Proprietary software is closed source, and typically it is against the terms and conditions to reverse engineer the product. Open source flips this on its head, and the end-user can customize and control the basic code behind the product for their deployment. Companies with the resources can use this to create a product that truly fits the purpose.	Support and Warranty Limitations: As the open-source product is not profit or commercially driven, user support could be managed by the community or contractors who specialize in the product. This leads to disparate and often incomplete knowledge based on the product.
Reliability: Like orphan software, reliability can go either way with open and proprietary software. The user relies on the company updating, patching, and enhancing the codebase and the community for open-source software. Updates and patches can be managed via the community and supported this way.	Changing licensing terms: The terms and conditions for open-source software are still community-driven and require consensus but are typically open. This may lead to problems if you provide a service on top of the platform for your end-users (due to a lack of control from your side).
Transparency: The main use case for no-code platforms is that they are flexible and can be customized to the user’s requirements. Open source code supports this, where the users can review and customize the code, and as the product is usually community-driven, the roadmap and product plans are much more transparent.	Enterprise usage fees: A small negative is the cost and resources required to deploy and run your instance of the open-source product. This is minimal in the long run but can be a hurdle for the unsophisticated consumer looking for a cheap alternative.
Peer Review and Community: Open source community with passionate programmers and citizen coders means the code can be peer-reviewed and supported by well-intentioned members. This is typical of the collective and supportive nature of the development crowd to open source projects (Wikipedia, GitHub, etc).
Sustainability and Orphan software: This potential issue is typical of both a commercial product and an open-source project. The worst-case scenario is a hack, or the product becomes orphaned due to a lack of community or developer interest. But again, a company that manages its resources can support these platforms into the future.

The Top 5 Open Source No-Code Platforms

1. Bubble.io – The best way to build web apps without coding

With Bubble.io, you can rapidly prototype and deploy your ideas without writing a single line of code. It’s an excellent tool for beginners and experienced developers, providing a seamless experience for creating professional web applications in no time.

Product features include:

• No-Code Development: Bubble.io empowers users with no coding experience to create web and mobile applications using a visual interface.
• Drag-and-Drop Builder: The platform’s intuitive drag-and-drop builder simplifies the process of designing and structuring web pages and workflows.
• Backend Logic: You can create custom backend logic using workflows, allowing you to define how your application functions.
• Database Integration: Bubble.io provides a built-in database for managing and storing data, supporting various data types and relationships.
• Responsive Design: Applications built with Bubble.io are inherently responsive, ensuring they work well on various devices and screen sizes.

2. Budibase – OS for the best application development

Budibase is an open-source no-code platform and a faster way to build business apps that empower teams and improve productivity. Businesses like IBM, Deloitte, Proctor, Gamble, and Rakuten utilize the platform internally.

It utilizes internal databases but integrates into the leading DBs, including ArangoDB, DynamoDB, Mongo DB, MySQL, S3, and more.

Product features include:

• Build internal tools super fast for all team members.
• Set up and automate forms within your business.
• Create admin panels to manage data and
• Simple portals for teams and customers.

You can find out more about Budibase at https://budibase.com/ and their resources page at https://docs.budibase.com/

3. Joget – Simple and effective open-source platforms

Joget DX is the new generation open source no code platform typically built for faster, simpler digital transformation (DX). Joget combines the best of Rapid Application Development, Business Process Automation, and Workflow Management.

Joget empowers business users, non-coders, or coders with a single platform to easily build, deliver, monitor, and maintain enterprise applications. Joget DX combines the best of business process automation, workflow management, and no-code application development in a simple, flexible, and open platform.

With over 200,000 open-source downloads and over 12,000 community members since inception, the latest major release Joget DX is the next-generation successor to Joget Workflow. Jogged DX combines the best of process automation, workflow management, and no-code application development in a simple, flexible, and open platform. 

Product features include:

• Progressive Web Apps (PWA) and User Experience (UX)
• Web Push Notification and Offline Support
• Built-in Application Performance Management
• Web App Log Viewer
• Embedded Git Integration for Collaborative Development and Deployment
• Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Smart Decisions
• Bundled No Code TensorFlow AI Plugin
• Bundled No Code Rules Engine Plugin
• Extensibility via Add-On Builders, and
• Enhanced Workflow

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4. GoLess – Automate Web Browser Actions without Coding

GoLess.com is a functional, browser-based no-code platform for creating workflows and automations of any complexity. The platform emphasizes visual development of automations using blocks and links between them.

Product features include:

• No programming: The platform is based on the no-code concept, which means that users can create automations without the need for programming knowledge. This makes the platform accessible to a wide audience.
• Automation of any complexity: The platform is suitable for creating automations of varying complexity, from simple tasks to more complex workflows. Users can customize these workflows to meet their unique needs.
• Flexibility and Scalability: Users can easily customize and modify their automations as needed. The platform also provides scalability to address a variety of challenges.
• Improved Productivity: GoLess.com helps optimize business processes and increase productivity by automating routine tasks and speeding up operations.
• Built-in integrations: The platform can integrate with ChatGPT’s unique chatbot to enhance the functionality of your workflows even further.
• Community Support: GoLess.com provides access to a community of users and training resources to help you quickly learn the platform and get help from experienced professionals.
• Time and Resource Savings: The platform reduces the time spent on tasks and reduces the need for development, saving you resources and time.

5. Convertigo – Accelerate Your Projects with No Code

Imagine you can make any app you want. From simple, handy workforce apps to enterprise-grade multi-device transactional applications helping companies accelerate their business.

Get live sooner with No Code platform application development using Convertigo, which makes your Enterprise achieve business success more efficiently, delivering complete applications similar to Pro Code but faster and cheaper.

Product features include:

• Data security and User Authentication
• Offline Data and Task Scheduling
• Activity Monitoring
• Data and API Connectors
• Web and Mobile Responsive
• Back-end Business Logic and & workflows

Keep reading to discover more no-code platforms that we suggest you check out!

6. Huginn – Create and manage Zaps, just like Zapier

Just like Zapier and Integromat, Huginn is the open-source version that supports users to create no-code automation and inter-software connections. Huginn has a super active community with over 30k stars on the GitHub platform, and Huginn is an easy choice if you have to go open-source solid when choosing a no-code automation platform.https://www.youtube.com/embed/LkYPZ6xxK6U?feature=oembed

Product features include:

• Set up and scrape websites for their data and even receive an email when they change.
• Connect to Jabber, JIRA, MQTT, Next bus, Pushbullet, RSS, Slack, StubHub, translation APIs, Twilio, Twitter, etc
• Send digest emails to your audience at controlled times.
• Track counts of high-frequency events and send an SMS within moments when they spike.
• Send and receive WebHooks
• Track a location for equipment or persons over time

7. StackStorm – Enterprise Platform Without The Costs

StackStorm is part of the Linux Foundation as one of their premier projects. It offers robust features including an “If This Then That” platform where users can set up simple or complex automatons. Another brilliant feature of the platform is its powerful events-driven automation process, in which complex workflows can be automated using the following steps:

• Sensors – These are Python software-based sensors that watch out for any event required to trigger the StackStorm system into action.
• Triggers – External events that kick off a required thing to happen. There are generic triggers (e.g., timers, webhooks) and integration triggers (e.g., Sensu alert, JIRA issue updated). A new trigger type can be defined by writing a sensor plugin.
• Actions – Generic actions such as ssh, REST call, or integrations (OpenStack, Docker, Puppet) occur after the input trigger occurs. These actions can be invoked directly by the user via CLI or API or used and called as part of rules and workflows.
• Rules – Consider this like a map of the flows and how the events can run through the system. You have to match the action with the required output.
• Workflows – Workflows connect actions into flows, defining the order, transition conditions, and data passing. Most automation is typically more than one step and thus needs more than one action.
• Packs – User-created workflows can be downloaded as “packs” by grouping integrations (triggers and actions) and automation (rules and workflows). These can be downloaded on the StackStorm Exchange.
• Audits – Audit logs are perfect for tracking and managing your development logs for your platform.

8. WordPress – Trusted by the Best

Starting in 2003, WordPress was forked from a copy of the b2/catalog by two gentlemen, Mike Little, and Matt Mullenweg. This open-source project aimed to close the gap in the market where there was the need for an elegant, well-architected personal publishing system that could be managed by a user in a drag-and-drop manner.

WordPress is licensed under the General Public License (GPLv2 or later), which provides four core freedoms, purpose, change, copy, and redistribute.

WordPress Features and Benefits

Today, forty-three percent of the web uses WordPress, from hobby blogs to the biggest news sites online. Beautiful designs, powerful features, and the freedom to build anything. WordPress is both free and priceless at the same time. You can learn more at https://wordpress.org/about/

Product features include:

• Customizable designs.
• SEO friendly.
• Responsive mobile sites.
• High performance.
• Manage on the go.
• High security.
• Powerful media management.
• Easy and accessible.

9. Rei3 – Who is REI3 for?

REI3 is ideal for small- to medium-sized enterprises. Ready-to-use applications are already available for basic functionalities and can be deployed with vanilla implementation. You can check out our full review here. However, resources with basic coding skills are required for more complex functions.

The Pros and Cons of REI3:

Here are the factors that make REI3 a viable option as a development platform:

• The platform is free to use and is open-source with no user limit.
• Applications developed through the platform are lean and not resource-heavy; they are automatically compressed and cached.
• REI3’s builder is easy to set up.
• Users can benefit from regular updates and releases that extend the platform’s capabilities.
• Applications can be exported, transferred into other instances, and shared within the REI3 community.

On the flip side, here are some drawbacks of the platform:

• The interface of the no-code front-end builder can sometimes become clunky, depending on the server.
• For complex logic and business solutions, coding with PostgreSQL is needed.
• The platform is relatively new to the low-code sphere.

We have a few more platforms that you can review and sink your teeth into after reviewing the ones above. Check the following:

10. Baserow –  and Edit Databases with Ease

The base row is a database-oriented no-code platform that allows users to create, edit, and manage databases right in their web browser. What’s unique about Baserow is its focus on relational data – like foreign keys, one-to-many relationships, and many-to-many relations create and manage databases with this no-code free app.

11. Node-Red – Best for IoT apps –

Node-Red is an open-source no-code platform that is optimized for IoT projects. It provides a browser-based editor that makes it easy to wire together flows using the wide range of nodes in the palette that can be deployed to its runtime in a single click.

It has an extensive library of nodes and predefined flows to help you quickly and easily create your automated workflows. The drag-and-drop editor allows you to add, remove, or alter any node in your workflow. You can connect multiple systems such as databases or Zapier – Automate your Processes.

12. PyCaret – Best for machine learning –

PyCaret PyCaret isn’t just for data scientists – it’s a free and open-source no-code platform perfect for anyone familiar with Python who needs a machine learning tool to classify, cluster, or predict data.

PyCaret provides an interactive environment where users can quickly prototype models and create custom pipelines for ML work; there are also a few drawbacks to using PyCaret:

The platform has limited functionality compared to other no-code solutions or codeless app builder.

• PyCaret is restricted to Python users only.

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Frequently Asked Questions about Open Source No Code Platforms

The Bottom Line

Open-source no-code development provides an efficient and economical way of creating applications without learning to code. By employing platforms such as ServiceNow App Engine, Appy Pie, Glide, Airtable, and many more, developers can easily design, develop, test, and deploy their applications for their business needs. With the rise of tools, it is now possible for individuals to create apps or their applications without the need to learn complex coding languages and build app without coding agency.

No-code development platforms are becoming more popular and widely used as they provide a cost-effective solution for businesses. How organizations will leverage these open-source nocode tools to drive innovation, productivity, and profitability remains to be seen. The future of software development looks promising.

Besides that, your no-code solution will cover all the bases needed to satisfy your customer base’s demands, wants, needs, and hesitations while keeping you agile and ahead of the competition.