Comparing Bubble vs Glide: 14 key factors + pros & cons

Wondering which no-code platform to choose for your next big idea—Bubble.io or Glide? In the thriving world of no-code app development, making the right choice can seem like a daunting task. This comprehensive analysis dives into the distinguishing features, performance, scalability, AI integration, design capabilities, and the vibrant communities of both platforms. We'll compare and contrast every facet to help you decide which is better suited for your specific needs.

TL;DR

If you're after intricate customization, deeper control over workflows, and demand robust capabilities, Bubble.io is the platform for you. However, if your focus is on user-friendly simplicity, quick development time, seamless scalability, and effective integration with common data sources, Glide comes out on top. Each platform has its strengths and weaknesses, so your choice depends entirely on the specific requirements of your project. Dive in for a thorough analysis to guide your decision.

Bubble and Glide are two highly reputable no code app building platforms that offer businesses a more cost-effective option compared to launching directly into a native app store, and the app can be equally as functional. Both applications have similarities: 

1. They have a free plan option, though you will contend with branding issue;
2. Both allow you to build an app without coding;
3. They both offer easy-to-use templates for a variety of use cases;
4. Both allow for integration with Stripe, the de-facto internet billing software.

With drag-and-drop interfaces that make for a strong experience for users who don't know how to (or don't want to learn how to) code, Bubble and Glide are great options to get your app ready to go in a matter of weeks, not months or years, with huge savings as part of the deal. 

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Bubble vs Glide: User interface and customization

Bubble.io is notable for its potent visual editor. Although it has a steeper learning curve compared to other platforms like Adalo, users can access its extensive customization capabilities and advanced features once they master its interface. The platform's drag-and-drop interface and responsive design tools allow users to create customized web applications that adjust to various screen sizes and devices seamlessly.

Glide shines in the no-code landscape with its user-friendly and intuitive layout. Although it might not bring the extensive customization capabilities of platforms like Bubble.io to the table, it excels in terms of simplicity and ease-of-use. One of the distinguishing aspects of Glide is its real-time feedback feature—any changes you make are immediately visible, facilitating on-the-spot adjustments. Its efficiency is such that you could soon have a fully functional app up and running. However, it's important to note that while Glide's 'default' options are quite good—providing most users a decent head start in UI/UX—they might not achieve excellence. If you're in the market for more customization, consider stepping up to a business or enterprise plan. That's when CSS comes into play, enabling you to enhance Glide's default components.

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Bubble vs Glide: Database integration and functionality 

While Glide originally leaned on Google Sheets due to its straightforward CRUD (create, read, update, delete) interactions, the emphasis has since transitioned to Glide Tables. These tables have emerged as the primary data handling mechanism for Glide apps, designed within the Glideapp itself. They are recognized for their seamless operation and responsiveness within the app, particularly when it comes to swift calculations. However, it's worth noting that Glide maintains comprehensive support for various databases like GSheets, Excel, Airtable, Bigquery, and MySQL.

Bubble's approach to database management is distinctively robust. Not only does it allow developers to create and host their database within Bubble—leveraging the power of Amazon Web Services—but it also provides the flexibility to connect any external database using the API connector, including options like Xano, Firebase, AWS, Airtable, and more. The platform empowers developers to create web apps thanks to its capability to integrate full database functionalities. This includes handling real-time conditional situations and the inherent versatility to interface with any Application Programming Interface (API) system. While Glide is tailored for a 100% no/low-code experience, Bubble remains open to incorporating elements of coding within workflows, positioning it as a more versatile low-code solution.

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Bubble vs Glide: Collaboration

When it comes to team-based projects, Bubble.io's robust collaboration capabilities shine. The platform supports multiple users working on a single application, fostering effective teamwork. Additionally, Bubble.io's recently updated version control system allows admins to manage permissions based on roles, leading to streamlined collaboration and efficient resource management.

Glide's approach to collaboration is notably unique. While the platform accommodates multiple editors via Team Links, it currently only allows one active editor at a time within an app. The recent alteration in the commenting feature is another point of interest. In Classic Apps, comments can be made by anyone, but deletion is solely the admin's responsibility, executed individually. However, these comments do not affect your row count. In the newer Glide Apps, a fresh comment component allows users the flexibility to add, edit, and delete comments according to their needs. Do keep in mind, this added flexibility does count towards your row quota. Despite these varying aspects, Glide's tools effectively support teamwork and resource management.

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Bubble vs Glide: Programming languages and custom code integration

Just like Bubble.io, Glide is a no-code platform that doesn't allow for code exportation. But this shouldn't limit your possibilities. Bubble.io stands out with its robust database scalability, server capacity, and custom code integration. You can even sprinkle in some JavaScript, HTML, and CSS for that extra touch of customization and functionality, making it ideal for creating scalable apps that feel right at home on the platform.

Similarly, Glide doesn't fall behind. While you can't export its source code, that doesn't mean you're confined to basic options. You can take your app to the next level using HTML, CSS (though this is only available on business/enterprise plans), and JavaScript (but keep in mind, only on the backend for data processing). It's all part of Glide's commitment to offering comprehensive, ready-to-launch apps without the need to stray from its own ecosystem. It's a balanced approach, making sure you have the tools you need, while keeping things within reach for those who might not be coding experts.

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• Learn more: Best backends for Bubble: Xano vs Supabase vs Backendless

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Bubble vs Glide: SEO

In the realm of SEO tools, Bubble.io and Glide present quite different capabilities. Bubble.io, in particular, comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of SEO features. This platform enables users to customize a range of elements such as URLs, meta tags, and sitemaps, significantly enhancing the potential for their apps to stand out in search results.

Now, when it comes to Glide, it doesn't exactly excel in the SEO department. Details such as on-page SEO, meta tags, and head sections aren't Glide's strongest points. There are users who've found their way around, like creating SEO-friendly websites to publish and link to their Glide apps. But let's be honest, Glide isn't primarily built with SEO as a main feature. If SEO control is what you're after, consider a blend: a dedicated website or landing page on a SEO-focused platform like WordPress, coupled with your main app nested in a subdomain, all set up within Glide.

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Bubble vs Glide: Ease of use and learning curve

Both Bubble.io and Glide have unique learning trajectories. Bubble.io might initially feel like a steep climb, particularly when you're tackling custom workflows and actions. But don't fret, a plethora of resources, user-friendly tools, and an active community are readily available to guide you through the process.

On the other hand, Glide exemplifies simplicity, assuming you're well-acquainted with data structures. It supports data sourcing from a diverse range of platforms like Google Sheets, CSV files, Big Tables, Glide Tables, Airtable, or Excel. From there, Glide streamlines your journey with a visual, drag-and-drop interface. The platform's core intention is to democratize technology, aiming to minimize tech barriers and ensure a user-friendly experience, regardless of your coding skills.

The way Glide Apps shows content is through your database entries

Bubble.io is a true drag-and-drop tool similar to Adobe Photoshop

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Bubble vs Glide: Templates and design capabilities

When it comes to starting points for your app, both Bubble.io and Glide offer a helpful boost. Bubble.io dishes up a rich set of no-code templates. These not only furnish a visual interface but also come with pre-configured workflows and data types that ease the database setup. Whether you're venturing into e-commerce or dabbling in healthcare, Bubble.io has got you covered, offering a strong starting point that you can tailor to match your brand's unique flair.

Glide, on the other hand, boasts one of the largest template libraries in the no-code market. Say goodbye to blank canvases and hello to 400+ options that integrate seamlessly with your data, instantly transforming into a polished app. If your ground-breaking app idea isn’t represented in Glide's extensive library, don't fret. The team at LowCode Agency is more than ready to bring your revolutionary vision to life, building your app from scratch and tailoring it to your specific needs.

For a comprehensive understanding of Bubble amidst this comparison, you might want to check out our guide on Bubble.io's capabilities and limitations.

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Bubble vs Glide: Cross-platform support

While both Bubble.io and Glide allow for the creation of Progressive Web Apps (PWAs), their approaches differ slightly. Bubble.io's platform isn't inherently geared towards creating downloadable mobile apps. To make your app mobile-friendly, you'll need to wrap it using third-party tools. This allows for publication on iOS and Android app stores without needing separate versions. Even though there may be minor differences for platform-specific features, these can be handled easily within workflows. However, crafting a responsive app on Bubble.io isn't automatic—you'll need to design versions specifically for desktop and mobile.

On the flip side, Glide lets you effortlessly build PWAs, which you can share via a URL or QR code with anyone, anywhere. These apps run directly in the browser, bypassing the need for downloads from app stores. This means you can even save your Glide PWA onto your device without needing to visit an app store.

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• ‍Related: Can you build a mobile app with Glide?
• Related: Can you build a mobile app with Bubble?

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Bubble vs Glide: Scalability and performance

When it comes to scalability, both Bubble.io and Glide bring their own tools to the table. Bubble.io shines with robust options for database scalability and server capacity, primed for handling increases in traffic and user demands. It's about creating fully functional and scalable apps right there on the platform, so long as you nail your app structure and database architecture.

On the other side, Glide does a fantastic job of syncing massive amounts of data from sources like Google Sheets, Excel, and Airtable right into your app. This ease of data integration is a dream for anyone dealing with a sea of information. What if your project gets big? No worries—Glide has been designed to scale smoothly. Whether your app has hundreds or even millions of users, Glide ensures a consistent, hiccup-free experience for everyone.

Moreover, Glide has upped its game with the launch of "Big Tables" and Glide Tables, skyrocketing its scalability to handle up to a whopping 10 million rows. Even though this move did come with some trade-offs, like limitations on aggregated calculations, the overall boost to performance is undeniable. While Glide is making headway in its scalability, do keep an eye on the potential costs and limitations. That way, you're making the most informed decision for your project.

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• Related:  Bubble scalability: A review and best practices
• ‍Related:  Glide scalability: A review and best practices

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Bubble vs Glide: Case studies

Bubble.io apps:

• Cuure: Cuure is a business that sells personalized food supplements. They used Bubble as their primary development platform to create a fully personalized and customized experience for their customers. Cuure optimized their operations and developed a logistics center software using Bubble, enabling the personalization of orders and printing custom instructions. Their strategy led to significant revenue growth and a €1 million seed round of funding.
  
• GoodCourse: GoodCourse is a microlearning company that chose Bubble as their primary development platform to modernize EdTech. They recognized the need for better online learning tools in a mobile-dominated world. By utilizing Bubble's flexibility and API connector for integrations, GoodCourse developed a TikTok-style tool that offers innovative ways for learners to thrive. Their platform tracks engagement and learning outcomes, allowing organizations to adapt to learners' needs. GoodCourse raised over $1 million and joined Y Combinator's W23 batch.

Glide apps:

• Napps: Napps is a UK-based directory app, bridging the gap between professional hairdressers specializing in afro and curly hairstyles and clients seeking such services. Users can discover local stylists, engage with them through chat or audio/video calls, and secure bookings with a 25% non-refundable deposit. The app emphasizes punctuality, cancelling bookings if clients are over 30 minutes late unless otherwise agreed. For added convenience, Napps facilitates mobile hairdressing services, where stylists can visit clients' locations for a £2.00 per mile fee, or alternatively, clients can opt to visit the stylists' salons.

• MyShoots: MyShoots is a social networking app tailored for shooting sports enthusiasts, simplifying the organization of shooting days and events while fostering community interaction. Users start by creating a profile and undergoing a verification process, after which they can be invited to join clubs. Within these clubs, users can chat, share photos and videos, and receive details about upcoming events. Those not part of a club can still engage in public chats with other users. MyShoots offers both a free version and a premium version, which enables users to add 'places of interest' to their bios and participate in club charity decisions.

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• ‍Related: What is Glide used for?

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Bubble vs Glide: AI integration features

When it comes to embracing AI technology, both Bubble.io and Glide are in the vanguard. Bubble.io enhances its platform's efficiency by using AI for tasks like text generation and auto-tagging, all of which streamline your app workflows. Integrating OpenAI into Bubble.io, using an OpenAI API key and Bubble's API Connector plugin, supercharges your apps with even more powerful capabilities.

On the other hand, Glide's integration with OpenAI unlocks a veritable treasure trove of AI functionalities, significantly enhancing your app's performance and personalization. From generating natural language text to executing sophisticated language processing tasks, it's a game-changer. Glide lets you tap into AI for everything from personalized recommendations and engaging chatbot responses to insightful sentiment analysis of customer feedback and concise text summarization.

In summary, both Bubble.io and Glide take AI integration in stride, enabling you to make data-driven decisions, automate processes, and create dynamic, intelligent user experiences. So, no matter your choice of platform, your users will be treated to an engaging, innovative app experience.

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• Related: Explore Glide AI in action

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Bubble vs Glide: Features

Bubble.io features

• Code-Free Design: Enables app design, development, and hosting without coding.
• Built-In Message Boards: Facilitates easy communication and collaboration.
• Multilingual Support: Caters to a diverse user base with support for multiple languages.
• eCommerce Features: Offers specialized tools for online selling and checkout.
• User Management: Provides efficient management of user accounts and passwords.
• Collaboration: Supports up to 40 people working on a single app.
• Mobile-Friendly Layouts: Guarantees optimized mobile experiences.
• Dynamic Content: Allows for real-time updates and personalization.

Glide features

• Modern Themes: Empowers users to create beautiful apps without needing a designer.
• User Profiles: Enables personalized experiences through stored user data.
• Action-Packed Menus: Allows for grouped actions to control and update data.
• Efficient Overlays: Offers overlay windows for editing data without losing your place.
• Data Drilldown: Organizes apps in an easy-to-browse hierarchy.
• Collaboration: Enables team members to collaborate on apps, though it's important to note that simultaneous work on an app isn't currently supported.
• Pre-Designed Blocks: Simplifies app building without the need to fuss with pixels, colors, or spacing.
• Secure Access Control: Uses preapproved email lists and user roles for security.
• Integration: Works seamlessly with tools you already use, updating data where it lives.

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Bubble vs Glide: Integrations

Bubble.io and Glide both feature seamless integration with a wide variety of services and platforms, thus supercharging their capabilities.

Bubble.io integrates smoothly with various services and platforms, such as:

• Airtable
• Algolia
• Box
• Facebook
• Figma
• Google Maps, Optimize, and Sign-In
• Intercom
• Mailchimp
• Make
• Mixpanel
• OneSignal
• Peltarion
• Segment
• Servicebot
• Slack
• Stripe
• Twilio
• YouTube
• Zapier
• Zoom

Using Bubble.io's API Connector, developers can effortlessly communicate with external APIs. Additionally, Bubble.io offers nearly 1000 plugins that cover a wide range of functions, such as analytics, payment gateways, and transaction management.

Glide, on the other hand, boasts smooth integrations with platforms like:

• Asana
• Azure
• Clearbit
• Data Structures
• Device Info
• Discord
• DocsAutomator
• DocuSign
• Generate CSV
• Giphy
• GitHub
• Gmail
• Google Analytics
• Google Calendar
• Google Cloud
• Google Cloud Vision
• Google Maps
• Google Tag Manager
• Hubspot
• IFTTT Webhook
• Intercom
• Make (Formerly Integromat)
• Microsoft Outlook
• Microsoft Teams
• OpenAI and Glide
• PDFMonkey
• Pexels
• Push Notifications
• Slack
• Stripe
• Twilio
• urlbox
• Yelp
• Zapier
• Zendesk

Bubble vs Glide: Support, community, and resources

Both Bubble.io and Glide foster supportive and engaged communities that significantly contribute to their respective platforms. Bubble.io's community not only helps in creating new templates, plugins, and API integrations but also offers a collaborative atmosphere where guides are shared, and queries are answered. They also boast the Bubble Academy, a resource packed with educational content to help users of all skill levels thrive on the platform.
On the other hand, Glide's community is so helpful that you might not ever need to contact the support team. With their ethos of sharing and collaboration, anyone can submit app templates for others to use. To make learning more accessible, Glide offers the Glide University with step-by-step guides and Glide Docs, a growing collection of articles and videos on how to use Glide. It's all about empowering the users and fostering a spirit of community at both Bubble.io and Glide.

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Bubble vs Glide: Pros and cons

Bubble.io: Pros & cons

Bubble.io pros:

• Speeds up web application development and deployment.
• Offers diverse customization options and integrations.
• Generous free trial for comprehensive testing.
• Active, supportive community with new templates, plugins, and free assistance.
• Simplifies creating full-stack online apps with instant updates.
• Visual programming and drag-and-drop features.
• Seamless integration with plugins and third-party services.
  

Bubble.io cons:

• Limited control over code due to the hosted platform.
• Responsive design can pose challenges.
• Dependence on plugins for native functionality.
• Complex learning curve, particularly for beginners.
• Doesn't support code exporting or transitioning to another platform.
  

Glide: Pros & cons

Glide pros:

• Easy-To-Use with a tiny learning curve.
• Instant feedback and user-friendly interface.
• Cost-effective with affordable pricing plans.
• Scalable: Can grow as your business grows.
• Real-time updates: Latest data and changes are instantly visible.
• Offline capabilities: Can work even without an internet connection.
• Connects to multiple data sources, including Google Sheets, Airtable, and Salesforce.
• Wide range of widgets and components.
• 99.9% uptime guarantee and a supportive community.

Glide cons:

• Limited room for customization.
• Doesn't support publishing apps on the App Store.
• Tradeoff of aggregated columns with the 'Big Table' feature.
• Doesn't support simultaneous editing of an app by multiple team members.

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• ‍Related: Glide advantages and disadvantages
• Related: Bubble capabilities and limitations

Should you use Bubble.io or Glide?

As you understand more about Bubble vs Glide, you'll be able to determine which of the two platforms suits the needs of your business best. Are you a tech-savvy founder looking for just enough complexity? Choose Bubble. For everyone else, Glide is the de-facto choice.

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If you're comparing Glide and Bubble for your project, our dedicated teams are here to help. Don't wait any longer—book a free discovery call with us today and take the first step towards your dream project!