How to choose the right low-code platform for you

Nowadays, low-code and no-code platforms can help build high-quality, responsive websites in a heartbeat. It’s no wonder many businesses and individuals are turning to no-code development tools to start or further their online presence. Accelerating and streamlining the development process, these platforms empower anyone to create functional and beautiful websites, apps, and even internal tools without extensive coding knowledge. However, the array of existing tools can make choosing the right platform quite overwhelming. 

Whether you are a startup founder, a freelancer, or just someone looking to streamline workflows, selecting the right tool can make or break your project. So, here’s a guide on how to make the best choice based on your unique needs.

Best no-code website builder for you

Choosing the right low-code/no-code platform depends on your specific needs, technical skills, and the type of project you're working on, and can therefore get a little tricky. This is why our team at Studio by Miygamy has created this guide to help you make the right choice.

Start with your project’s goals

The first step in choosing the right low-code or no-code platform for you is to get clarity on your project’s requirements. Ask yourself the following questions: 

• What are you building? Are you trying to launch a website, build a web application (or a mobile one), or maybe create an e-commerce platform? 
• How complex is your project? Does your idea include features like user logins, dynamic data, or third-party integrations? If this is the case, you’ll need more than a simple no-code website builder. 
• Are you prioritizing pixel-perfect design or aiming to build an application with robust functionality? 
• What level of customization and scalability do you need? 

By setting your goals upfront, you'll have a clearer idea of which platform can help bring your vision to life.

Evaluate key features

Now that you have your goals set, let’s check out what different platforms bring to the table.

• Drag-and-drop interface for rapid visual development: Platforms like Webflow offer powerful visual editors that make crafting custom websites a breeze. For those who care about design, this should be at the top of your list.

• Integration capabilities with third-party systems and services: Think about the tools your project might need—email marketing, customer relationship management (CRM), or third-party APIs. Platforms with native integrations or connections via services like Zapier are essential if you're planning on building workflows. This is something you can do using Webflow as well. 

• Handy data handling: For any project that needs to deal with data management and manipulation, Bubble and Adalo are excellent choices. They provide more advanced database options than your average website builder.

• Customization capabilities: Sometimes, even in a no-code world, a bit of extra customization can take a project to the next level. Platforms that support custom coding with JavaScript, CSS, or HTML give you that added flexibility when it's necessary.

Having a strong set of features that align with your project’s requirements can make development a lot quicker and simpler. Plus, it ensures that the platform will fulfill your project’s needs in the long run, being able to support its growth over time. 

Consider ease of use and learning curve

No code doesn’t always mean “no learning required.” Some platforms are intuitive and easy to pick up, while others may require more time to master. If you’re planning on building your website or application yourself without the help of designers, this is something to keep in mind. 

Platforms like Webflow, Wix, or Squarespace are easy to use for non-technical users who want to build a beautiful website. If you’re building something more complex, you’ll still be able to use those platforms but might need to couple them with other backend solutions. Otherwise, platforms like Buble or OutSystems can offer more power but also have a steeper learning curve. 

It's all about striking a good balance between what works and what your team can actually manage. Picking a platform that aligns with your skills will help you stay on track and get things done.

Look at scalability and performance

Your project might be small now, but how will it scale in the future? Picking a platform that grows with you is key to avoiding painful migrations later on.

Make sure the platform you select can handle your project's growth in terms of traffic and data. Webflow, for example, is known for its excellent site performance and SEO capabilities, while platforms like Bubble or OutSystems are designed to handle complex app logic and extensive datasets.

When considering growth potential, keep an eye on any restrictions regarding data storage, API calls, or traffic. Can the platform keep up as your user base increases, or will you reach a limit? Go for a platform that not only meets your current requirements but also prepares for what’s ahead.

Budget and cost considerations

While low-code and no-code platforms can help cut down on development expenses, their pricing can really differ from one to another. 

Most platforms offer tiered pricing based on features, traffic, or the number of users. In most cases, a basic website is very affordable, but as you add more advanced features (like user authentication or complex data structures, the costs can quickly rise. 

Make sure to keep an eye on any extra costs or hidden fees that come with features and plugins. Understanding the full cost breakdown will save you from any unexpected bills down the line.

Take the platform on a test drive

The best way to truly know if a platform is right for you? Use it. Many platforms, like Webflow and Bubble, offer free versions or trials. Use these to prototype your project. It’s one thing to read about features, and another to see how they work in practice.

Similarly, you can look at other people’s websites and apps made with the different platforms you are considering for your own project. You’ll be able to see if they possess any of the characteristics you’re looking for, both in terms of design and functionality. 

You can have a look at our past projects done with Webflow and see for yourself what such a platform can do. 

Choosing the right platform with Studio by Miyagami

At the end of the day, the best no-code platform is the one that matches your vision with functional, scalable technology—without drowning you in endless lines of code. And while platforms like Webflow provide an incredible foundation for creating custom websites, having an experienced team by your side can make all the difference. At Studio by Miyagami, we leverage Webflow’s powerful design capabilities to craft unique, high-performance websites that not only look great but also meet your business goals. If you’re looking for a partner to bring your vision to life with Webflow, we’re here to help you every step of the way. So, contact us today!