5 Best Low Code No Code Platforms for Fast App Development
What’s the key to startup success? Is it timing, a great marketing strategy, or massive investments? While all these factors play their roles, none of them matter without a product.
Traditional development methods often fall short in the competition for user attention and resource optimization. They demand time, technical expertise, and upfront investment in resources, licenses, and other luxuries most startups can’t afford. This is why a low code and no code (LCNC) approach takes over, changing not only the cost and time of development but also the instruments companies can use to build their solutions.
With intuitive drag-and-drop interfaces, visual workflow builders, and pre-built templates, low code/no code platforms eliminate the barriers between having an idea and bringing it to life. No wonder the global low-code application development platform market, valued at $10.46 billion in 2024, is projected to skyrocket to $82.37 billion by 2034, according to Precedence Research.
Obviously, the market is booming. There are many platforms available, and it may be challenging to understand the differences and select the right one.
As a low-code no-code solutions provider, we offer expert guidance in choosing the best platform for specific business needs. Ready to discover the ideal fit for your startup? Let’s get started!
Top Low Code/No Code Platforms for Startups
Low code no code app development is not new in the industry and has won over the hearts and minds of many successful business leaders. How? By offering straightforward, ready-made, and reusable components for application development. So, let’s review the top 5 low code no code platforms. However, to ensure an unbiased approach, we will use not only our expertise but also feedback from actual users published on trusted sites like Capterra and G2.
We will evaluate each platform based on its pros and cons, strengths and weaknesses, ease of use, and security considerations. This comparison will guide you in choosing the right platform for your startup product development, whether you plan to develop your software in-house or outsource the development process.
Liferay
Liferay is an open-source enterprise platform for creating, managing, and optimizing digital experiences across web, mobile, and connected devices. With its low-code no-code approach, Liferay enables both technical and non-technical teams to develop and deploy applications rapidly. It includes tools for automating workflows, such as a drag-and-drop workflow designer for defining approval processes, assigning tasks, and managing service-level agreements (SLAs). Additionally, it enables you to customize data displays, integrate third-party applications, and enhance user experience with features like fragments, master pages, and style books.
Use Liferay Objects to model custom business data, workflows, and Client Extensions to deploy new features, UI components, or integrations without impacting core system stability. With Liferay DXP tools like Search Blueprints users can tailor search behaviors, enabling them to modify search queries without writing code. Liferay provides the flexibility and scalability needed to build and manage robust digital experiences that meet the needs of any organization. In our experience, Liferay‘s low code no code development platform enables startups to bring their digital products to market much faster, in up to 2 months.
Core Strengths:
Content & Experience Management:
- Multi-channel content publishing.
- AI-powered tools for generating text, images, and descriptions.
- Personalization: Tailor layouts, content, and assets to user segments with preview capabilities.
- Built-in A/B testing and audience segmentation.
Business Features:
- Tools for modern B2B commerce.
- Advanced workflow automation for improved team efficiency.
- Multi-language and multi-site support for global scalability.
Development Experience:
- Supporting low-code tools like Blade CLI for quick project setup and Gogo Shell for managing and debugging services, enabling fast and efficient customization .
- Full coding flexibility for advanced requirements.
- Rich API ecosystem and enterprise integrations.
Tech Foundation:
- Scalable Java-based architecture designed for enterprise needs.
- Compliance with GDPR, HIPAA, SOC2, and other security standards.
- Comprehensive feature set out-of-the-box.
Works Best For:
- Building portals for customers or employees to collaborate or manage services.
- Creating intranets to improve internal communication and productivity.
- Managing multi-site ecosystems with complex digital requirements.
- Centralized supplier portals for streamlined management and collaboration in a single workspace.
- Delivering tailored B2B and B2C commerce experiences with seamless integration.
Cost Structure:
- Community Edition: Free, suitable for small-scale use or testing.
- Enterprise Edition: Subscription-based with robust enterprise-grade features.
Support & Resources:
- An active developer community for peer-to-peer learning and troubleshooting.
- Comprehensive documentation and training resources.
- Liferay support for clients, including dedicated technical assistance.
Skill Set Needs:
- Java expertise and familiarity with API-based integrations.
- Web development fundamentals, including front-end and back-end basic knowledge.
Learning Curve: Moderate to High
- While low-code tools simplify basic tasks, technical expertise is required for advanced customization and deployment.
- Suitable for technical teams or startups with developers experienced in Java or enterprise systems.
Perfect for Startups That:
- Need to build complex, multi-site solutions.
- Require enterprise-grade security from day one.
- Plan for significant scaling over time.
Why Choose Liferay?
Liferay stands out as a robust low code and no code platform, ideal for startups aiming to tackle large-scale, complex digital ecosystems. Its flexibility, scalability, and security combination ensure long-term reliability and growth potential, making it particularly suitable for businesses planning to expand into global markets or enterprise-level solutions.
Jahia
Jahia is a modular, open-source digital experience platform. It helps businesses unify content management and customer data to deliver personalized, multichannel digital experiences. The platform offers a hybrid architecture, combining traditional CMS capabilities with headless CMS features. This flexibility makes Jahia suitable for various business needs, especially for companies prioritizing customer data integration and personalization.
Jahia is particularly strong for startups in industries like retail, healthcare, and education that require advanced personalization and multichannel management. It provides a scalable solution for businesses seeking to enhance customer engagement while maintaining flexibility and control, leveraging the power of no code low code app development.
Core Strengths:
Modular Architecture:
- Flexible headless CMS for scalable, API-first solutions.
- Built-in tools for analytics, lead nurturing, and marketing workflows.
- Real-time behavioral insights for optimizing campaigns.
Business Features:
- Integrated customer data platform (CDP) for advanced personalization.
- A/B testing, lead nurturing, and seamless e-commerce integrations.
Development Experience:
- Intuitive low-code tools for quick deployment.
- Jinja-based scripting for advanced customization.
- API-first design for flexible integrations.
Tech Foundation:
- Modular Java-based architecture.
- GDPR compliance and enterprise-grade security (ISO 27001, HIPAA, AWS FTR certified).
- Scalable design tailored for large organizations.
Works Best For:
- Creating personalized experiences across web and mobile apps.
- Managing multi-brand or multi-site setups.
- Startups in retail, healthcare, and education seeking advanced personalization.
Cost Structure:
- Quote-based pricing tailored to business needs.
- Free trial available for hands-on exploration.
Support & Resources:
- Vast training resources, including documentation, online training, and presence at Stack Overflow.
- Dedicated enterprise support with proactive assistance.
Skill Set Needs:
- Basic web development skills.
- Familiarity with Jinja scripting for advanced customization.
- Understanding of API integration.
Learning Curve: Moderate
- Easy to start with basic features.
- Advanced personalization requires technical expertise.
Perfect for Startups That:
- Need a scalable platform for managing customer data and personalization.
- Operate across multiple sites or languages.
- Require seamless integration with existing tools and systems.
Why Choose Jahia?
Jahia is an example of a powerful low code no code platform for startups that want to prioritize customer data integration and personalized digital experiences. Its modular architecture, scalability, and hybrid CMS capabilities make it an excellent choice for businesses managing multi-brand setups and multilingual content or operating in the retail, healthcare, and education industries.
Bloomreach
Bloomreach is a low-code/no-code platform designed for startups in e-commerce and retail. It focuses on marketing automation, personalized customer engagement, and seamless omnichannel experiences. Its API-first architecture and pre-built integrations with leading e-commerce platforms provide scalability and flexibility for growing businesses. It combines a headless CMS, an AI-powered customer data platform (CDP), and real-time personalization tools. Startups can quickly leverage the power of low-code/no-code app development to create tailored customer experiences without requiring extensive technical expertise.
Bloomreach offers targeted email marketing, SMS and chatbot engagement, personalized website and mobile app experiences, and advanced tools for running and optimizing ad campaigns.
Core Strengths:
E-Commerce Optimization:
- AI-driven personalization for tailored shopping experiences.
- Seamless integration with popular e-commerce platforms.
- Tools for A/B testing and audience segmentation.
Business Features:
- Advanced analytics and real-time engagement insights.
- Integrated CRM and marketing automation.
- E-commerce integrations for tailored shopping experiences.
Development Experience:
- Low-code tools for building workflows and scenarios.
- Strong API integration for third-party tools.
- Well-documented configuration options.
Tech Foundation:
- AI-powered backend for personalization and recommendations.
- GDPR-compliant, scalable architecture (ISO 9001, ISO 27001, SOC 2).
- Robust API ecosystem for seamless integrations.
Works Best For:
- E-commerce startups need personalized shopping experiences.
- Running multi-channel marketing campaigns and scaling customer engagement.
- Startups aiming to scale quickly in competitive markets.
Cost Structure:
- Usage-based pricing with premium tiers for advanced features.
- Additional costs for training and enterprise support.
Support & Resources:
- Bloomreach Academy.
- Regular reports, podcasts, and webinars.
- Comprehensive support for enterprise clients.
Skill Set Needs:
- Basic knowledge of e-commerce and marketing principles.
- Familiarity with APIs for advanced integrations.
- Understanding of personalization tools for full feature utilization.
Learning Curve: Low to Moderate
- User-friendly interface for basic operations.
- AI features require additional learning.
Perfect for Startups That:
- Operate in e-commerce or retail.
- Prioritize personalized customer experiences.
- Need an all-in-one platform for content, marketing, and analytics.
Why Choose Bloomreach?
Bloomreach can be a valuable LCNC platform for specific types of startup software development. It is particularly suited for businesses focused on e-commerce, retail, and customer-facing applications. Its strengths lie in AI-driven personalization, marketing automation, and e-commerce capabilities. Bloomreach also empowers startups to drive customer engagement and foster business growth through personalized experiences. This can be achieved through in-house development or by partnering with a reliable provider for outsourcing software development for startups.
Pimcore
Pimcore is a low-code/no-code (LCNC) platform designed for unified data and experience management. It integrates Product Information Management (PIM), Digital Asset Management (DAM), Master Data Management (MDM), and Content Management System (CMS) capabilities, providing a centralized solution for managing complex data ecosystems.
Built on a flexible, API-first architecture, Pimcore empowers businesses to streamline omnichannel content delivery, customize workflows, and scale operations efficiently. Its modular design, extensive data modeling tools, and cost-effective open-source foundation make it an ideal choice for startups in industries like retail, manufacturing, and logistics seeking powerful yet customizable no code low code development.
Core Strengths:
Unified Data Management:
- Integrated Product Information Management (PIM), Digital Asset Management (DAM), and CMS.
- Comprehensive tools for managing data and assets across multiple channels.
Business Features:
- Advanced data modeling and workflows.
- Integration-ready with ERP and CRM systems.
- Omnichannel commerce capabilities.
Development Experience:
- Modular architecture with Symfony framework.
- Flexible, customizable development options.
- API-first approach for seamless integration.
Tech Foundation:
- PHP-based open-source platform.
- Relies on third-party hosting; NIS2 directive compliance.
- Scalable for complex data ecosystems.
Works Best For:
- Product-heavy industries like retail, manufacturing, and logistics.
- Managing extensive product data across channels.
- Startups seeking flexible, open-source solutions.
Cost Structure:
- Free core.
- Enterprise features start at $9,900/year.
Support & Resources:
- Active partner network and community forums.
- Comprehensive documentation and tutorials.
- Paid support options for enterprise implementations.
Skill Set Needs:
- PHP development skills for customization of modular framework.
- Understanding of data modeling and master data management concepts.
- API integration skills.
Learning Curve: Moderate
- Technical background needed for customization.
- Complex data management requires expertise.
Perfect for Startups That:
- Need robust product and data management capabilities.
- Operate in industries with extensive product catalogs.
- Require open-source flexibility with enterprise features.
Why Choose Pimcore?
Pimcore is perfect for startups seeking cost-effective outsourcing solutions for startups to manage extensive data ecosystems effectively with its open-source platform. With its modular architecture and API-first design, it provides the flexibility needed to scale and customize solutions for industries like retail, manufacturing, and logistics.
Kentico Xperience
Kentico Xperience is a LCNC digital experience platform (DXP) that integrates content management, digital marketing, and e-commerce functionalities into a single solution. Built on a .NET Core architecture, it empowers startups in their app development efforts by providing robust tools for creating personalized, scalable, and content-rich digital experiences.
Its drag-and-drop design features, marketing automation capabilities, and support for multi-channel content delivery make it accessible for both technical and non-technical users. Kentico Xperience is tailored for startups and enterprises looking for an all-in-one LCNC platform to accelerate time-to-market, enhance customer engagement, and efficiently manage digital assets across web, mobile, and other channels.
Core Strengths:
Integrated Marketing & Commerce:
- Combines content management, digital marketing, and e-commerce in one platform.
- Marketing automation features like email campaigns and lead scoring.
- Drag-and-drop page building with customizable templates.
Business Features:
- Built-in e-commerce functionalities.
- Lead scoring and marketing automation.
- Strong support for role-based workflows.
Development Experience:
- Flexible MVC architecture for customization.
- Easy integration with external tools (e.g., Salesforce, PayPal).
- Developer-friendly with macros and APIs.
Tech Foundation:
- .NET Core-based architecture.
- Scalable for enterprise-level deployments.
- Secure and GDPR-compliant (SOC 2, ISO 27001).
Works Best For:
- B2B or B2C websites with integrated marketing tools.
- Startups need quick deployment and scalability.
- Businesses focused on content-rich digital experiences.
Cost Structure:
- Pay-as-you-go license model.
- Based on the chosen plan and features, pricing ranges from $1,050 to $2,610/month.
Support & Resources:
- Responsive customer support.
- Comprehensive training materials and forums.
- Regular updates based on user feedback.
Skill Set Needs:
- Basic understanding of web development principles.
- Familiarity with marketing automation concepts.
- .NET development skills.
Learning Curve: Low to Moderate
- Accessible for basic content management.
- Advanced features require technical expertise.
Perfect for Startups That:
- Seek an all-in-one platform for content, marketing, and e-commerce.
- Have .NET development teams in-house.
- Need scalable solutions with strong enterprise features.
Why Choose Kentico Xperience?
Kentico Xperience is a versatile low-code/no-code platform ideal for startups seeking an all-in-one solution for content management, digital marketing, and e-commerce. Its scalable architecture, drag-and-drop customization, and robust marketing automation tools ensure quick deployment and a seamless user experience for both technical and non-technical teams, making it a valuable option for IT outsourcing startups.
Sum up
This comparison is based on actual reviews and aims to assist you in making an informed choice towards low-code/no-code platforms. To get a more visual and concise comparison of these platforms, we’ve created a PDF file you can download for free.
Meanwhile, if you’re hesitant or want to learn more about our experience in low-code/no-code app development, request a free consultation with our experts via the contact form.
