The business world was changing too quickly, moving toward digitisation. Nowadays, Businesses of all sizes are in a race to increase the visibility of their brand through an online presence across multiple channels, including launching applications, websites, and social media platforms. Developing an online presence through web and mobile applications sounds thrilling and challenging. You have to make many crucial decisions, such as choosing the right app and web development company, selecting the right technology stack, or determining the most appropriate method for coding. Low-code/no-code vs custom code development? It may result in a lot of brainstorming for you.
Low-Code/No-Code and custom code development are two different approaches for web and mobile app development. Low-Code/No-Code is a method for building applications without requiring programming skills, whereas custom code development requires skilled developers with their expertise to handle the development process smoothly.
Low-code and no-code development platforms refer to software development tools that provide environments for developers and users to build web and mobile applications without writing code, using drag-and-drop components (small pieces of code). No-code platforms are those that do not require code, using only visual interfaces that can be manipulated using drag-and-drop, and low-code platforms that offer an array of visual development, as well as the capability of customizing by code. These platforms are designed to speed up the process of development and enable it for professional developers and the citizen developer (those who do not have a lot of experience in programming).In this blog, we will break down both methods —traditional and Low-Code/No-Code —in a simple and easy-to-understand way. Whether you’re a startup founder, solopreneur, or early-stage business owner considering launching an MVP or customer-facing mobile app, this guide helps you choose the right approach that fits your project’s needs.
What Is No-Code/Low-Code Development?
Low-code and no-code development platforms refer to software development tools that provide environments to developers and users to build web and mobile apps without writing code.
These platforms use drag-and-drop features and components (small pieces of code).No-code platforms are those that do not require code, using only visual interfaces that can be manipulated using drag-and-drop, and low-code platforms that offer an array of visual development as well as the capability of customizing by code. These platforms are designed to speed up the process of development and enable it for professional developers and citizen developers (those who do not have a lot of experience in programming).
What Is Custom App Development?
Custom app development refers to the process of creating, developing, and deploying applications with the specific needs and requirements of enterprises or individuals. Custom apps are created completely from scratch with manual coding according to specific workflows, issues, and objectives, business logics like a food delivery app, a job portal app, etc.
When someone wants to develop a unique app product with an innovative idea or start their own app business and invest in developing a custom app, Low-code app platforms should not be utilized in such situations.
Key Differences Between No-Code and Custom app Development
| Feature | No-Code/Low-Code | Custom Development |
| Speed | Fast | Slower (depends on scope) |
| Cost | Affordable | Expensive |
| Flexibility | Limited | Highly customizable |
| Scalability | Medium | High |
| Tech Skills Needed | None to Low | High |
| Maintenance | Platform-dependent | Fully in your control |
Which One is Better for MVPs: No-Code or Custom Development?
If you are a solo founder or a startup looking to create an MVP (Minimum Viable Product), no-code or low-code development is typically the best option, as it is fast and easy to use. It also helps you to bring your idea to market without any need to hire expensive developers. No-code or low-code development allows you to test your idea in the real world with real users and gather feedback from customers. Platforms such as Bubble, Glide, or Adalo provide drag-and-drop applications that enhance the development of prototypes in a matter of days or even weeks. These features make them ideal for early-stage validation.
However, on the other hand, if your MVP  has innovative features that are not built with drag-and-drop or other tools, you require  Custom Development due to its highly flexible and secure nature. It takes time and costs more than Low-code and no-code, but it also allows you to have total liberty to build your product the way you’d like it to be. Custom development also helps prepare you for future growth, particularly in the event that you are planning to raise funds. For most startups in the early stages, beginning with no code can help cut down on risk, reduce cost, and speed up the process which is exactly what an MVP is all about.
Conclusion
No-Code/Low-Code or custom application development are two entirely different approaches to development, and choosing from both of them depends on your project goals, timeline, and technical requirements of your startup. No-code or low-code platforms are a great way to start if you’re at an early stage, testing an idea, or building an MVP. You can get started without having to write a line of code. This is a great way to validate your idea, gather feedback, and launch quickly.
As your business grows, and you need more advanced features or greater security for your app, or increased scalability as your app needs to grow, eventually, you will have to switch over to custom application development. This may require more investment and time, but you will have the flexibility and control to scale your app as your business requires.
