Many enthusiast application developers are still skeptical about the functionalities and use of no-code app builders. One of the reasons for such skepticism could be that they feel the development of no-code app builders will eventually discard the traditional coding methods.
However, those who have used the no-code app development tools and are familiar with its functions would know that every other product or platform has its own identifiable and significant aspects.
But, seeing the developments and popularity of such no-code and low-code app builders, it is safe to say that people these days prefer the quick and straightforward method for app building.
Thus, to further eliminate the skepticism of people regarding the no-code app building platform and the custom development ones, we will discuss a few critical and distinguishable points of both. And by the end of this article, I hope that you will be able to choose the one app development platform that you think fits your needs.
But, before we proceed to the main point of discussion, let us first have a little briefing on the no-code development and the custom (traditional coding) app development platform.
No-code App Development/Builder
No-Code application builders are the new generation software or websites that offer the interested users the ability to build an application without inputting any coding language. Amateur app developers can also create a business app quickly without any coding experience.
One such no-code app builder that proves to be a perfect solution for quick app-building is the Andromo. Developing an app using this platform will give you many practical benefits. On Andromo, you can create a native Android app within minutes that too free of cost. You can also export your newly built app to Google PlayStore and Apple Store. You can say goodbye to all the complicated technicalities that usually involve when building an app.
So, you see, a no-code platform is affordable, quick, and is accessible to all with robust functionalities.
Custom App development or Traditional coding
Application development using the traditional coding method cannot be done by a single person. It requires a team of different programmers and developers to plan and work accordingly to develop a custom code to meet the application requirements in hand. This approach is all good. The only downfall is that its app-building process is pretty complex, lengthy, and expensive. It involves several trial and error challenges that could make the whole process inefficient.
Nonetheless, this briefing does not discourage the use of traditional coding to create an app. Suppose you want a sophisticated application that is seemingly unique from your competitors. In that case, you can hire some professionals to build a custom and complex application for you. They will perfectly tailor the app as per your preference and purposes.
That being mentioned, let us now compare both these app development solutions before we decide which is the best platform.
No-Code App Builders VS Custom App Development
Now that you have a basic idea of how both app-building solutions work, below are some points that showcase the pros and cons of both of them. After understanding all the facts, you can decide for yourself whether no-code apps are better than custom ones or not.
- Learning curve and customization options
Like you have learned by now, no-code app builders require no coding. The drag & drop functionality and friendly interface of the no-code tools allow the developer to build a reliable application in no time. With many in-built features for the app, the customization is limited to an extent depending on the type of no-code platform that you use. Hence, the learning curve for this solution remains steep in the initial phase.
In the custom development solution, professional programmers and developers handle all the coding technicalities while building the tailored application. Thus, the learning curve for the user of the app is usually short. Also, all the necessary tweaks and customizations are done by the programmers only.
- Costs involved.
Many of the no-code app builders are affordable to build an app with all the simple yet necessary features. For instance, the Andromo app builder offers its users a free trial period to build a native Android app for free. Then, subscribe to one of their budget-friendly plans depending on the app and functionalities and other integration features you require.
Suppose you go for custom app development. In that case, you have to hire experienced programmers and form a team to successfully develop your desired app. This approach will definitely push up your expenses and increase the overall costs of the app development process. The more custom design and functionality you want for the app, the higher the cost involved.
- The functionality of the apps.
With no-code platforms, you can quickly build a simple app with an easy interface with all the essential features present. Since the customization options are limited, you cannot create a complex app for your project.
However, suppose you want an app with complex functionalities and high-end interactivity. In that case, you need to follow the traditional app development approach where you hire a team of programmers to custom-build your application. Nonetheless, the end-users prefer to use those apps that provide a smooth interface with quality functionalities.
- Maintenance and support
Like how stability and security of your app are important, the availability of maintenance & support for your app from the app-building platform is also significant. No-code app builders usually do not offer their users any maintenance & support services if there is any issue or glitch. Moreover, with limited upgrades and customizations, keeping the app up to date with the changing trends also becomes challenging.
This disadvantage of the no-code platforms is excused by the custom development solutions as the support service of the programmer’s team is readily available to cater to the requirements of the custom-built app. With their support, you can easily keep your app updated.
With all the points discussed above, the final decision still remains upon the users as both the app development solutions have their own positive and negative aspects. So, make an informed decision wisely.