Retool is a powerful low-code platform for building internal tools quickly using drag-and-drop components and pre-built database connectors. It’s popular among engineering teams who need to rapidly build admin dashboards, CRUD apps, and operations panels.

However, Retool’s pricing model, limited design flexibility, and vendor lock-in lead many teams to explore alternatives—especially if they want open-source options, more visual freedom, or better scalability.

Here are the 10 best Retool alternatives in 2025, including both open-source and commercial tools for developers and non-technical teams alike.

1. Appsmith – Open-Source, Developer-Friendly Alternative

Appsmith is one of the most popular open-source Retool alternatives, offering a drag-and-drop interface, built-in widgets, REST/GraphQL/SQL integrations, and Git-based version control.

It can be self-hosted or used via its managed cloud service.

Best for: Dev teams looking for open-source internal tool platforms.
Why it’s great: Free to self-host, active community, real-time collaboration.

2. Budibase – Build Internal Tools with Automation and Custom Data

Budibase lets you build low-code CRUD apps fast with support for external databases, REST APIs, and automation rules. You can host it yourself or use Budibase Cloud.

It also allows for role-based access control and app theming.

Best for: Teams wanting flexibility in data sources and user permissions.
Highlight: Built-in database + automation + self-hosted capabilities.

3. ToolJet – Lightweight, Extensible, and Open-Source

ToolJet is another open-source Retool competitor that supports PostgreSQL, MongoDB, REST APIs, Firebase, and more.

It features a modern UI builder, JS code editor, role management, and deployment options for both cloud and self-hosted environments.

Best for: Developers needing fast, flexible UI creation.
Why developers like it: Built-in JS editor + Docker-based deployment.

4. UI Bakery – Low-Code Platform with Angular-Powered UI

UI Bakery helps users create complex front-end UIs using drag-and-drop and integrates with SQL, REST, and GraphQL APIs. It offers dynamic logic, role-based permissions, and pixel-level design control.

Best for: Teams that need more control over front-end styling.
Key feature: Angular-powered flexibility + logic workflows.

5. Jet Admin – No-Code Internal Tool Builder

Jet Admin allows teams to build admin panels, dashboards, and business apps using a visual builder. It supports integrations with Airtable, Stripe, Firebase, and custom APIs.

It’s more suitable for business users or non-coders compared to Retool.

Best for: Business teams needing visual internal apps.
Strength: No-code + business-focused templates.

6. DronaHQ – Hybrid No-Code/Pro-Code Platform

DronaHQ offers a powerful mix of no-code UI building and custom scripting, with built-in database integrations, app publishing, and role management.

It’s often used for operational tools, approval workflows, and mobile-ready apps.

Best for: Enterprises needing scalable internal tooling.
Highlight: Ready-to-use mobile and web interfaces.

7. OutSystems – Enterprise-Grade Low-Code Platform

OutSystems is a full low-code application platform designed for building enterprise-grade apps—not just internal tools. It supports complex workflows, multi-user logic, and integrates with DevOps pipelines.

Best for: Large companies with advanced app lifecycle needs.
Why it’s different: Full-stack control with enterprise scalability.

8. Internal.io – Purpose-Built for Internal Business Apps

Internal is a commercial platform like Retool, offering drag-and-drop UI building, permissions, audit logs, and native integrations with tools like Salesforce, MySQL, and BigQuery.

It’s built with security and team management in mind.

Best for: Startups and mid-sized companies prioritizing access control.
Key feature: Field-level permissions + built-in security.

9. WeWeb – Visual Frontend Builder with Backend Flexibility

WeWeb is a frontend builder that connects to backends like Xano, Supabase, Airtable, or custom APIs. It offers beautiful UI controls, logic workflows, and full CSS support.

It’s great for building client-facing dashboards or custom web apps, unlike Retool’s internal focus.

Best for: Frontend-heavy dashboards and SaaS interfaces.
Strength: Professional UI design + backend-agnostic.

10. Noloco – Client Portals and Internal Tools Without Code

Noloco lets teams build client portals, internal tools, and apps visually from Airtable or Google Sheets. It includes auth, roles, file uploads, and simple automation logic.

It’s no-code, so business teams can build tools without dev help.

Best for: Agencies or SaaS businesses needing client dashboards.
Why it works: Rapid UI delivery + strong Airtable integration.

 Conclusion:

Whether you’re a solo founder, a startup, or an enterprise IT team, there’s a Retool alternative built for your specific stack and workflow:

• Use Appsmith, Budibase, or ToolJet for open-source, self-hosted options.

• Choose Jet Admin, UI Bakery, or DronaHQ for flexible visual builders.

• Go with OutSystems or Internal.io for enterprise-ready, secure environments.

• Try WeWeb or Noloco for external-facing apps and client portals.