Comprehensive Glide App Review and Alternative Options

Have you ever wanted to create an app quickly without writing a single line of code? Glide makes that possible. It’s a no-code platform that lets you build mobile and web apps by pulling data from Google Sheets or Airtable. Whether you’re organizing a team project or launching a small business tool, Glide simplifies the process with its user-friendly interface.

The rise of no-code tools like Glide isn’t surprising. The no-code platform market was valued at $3.83 billion in 2023, and experts predict it will grow by 30.6% annually through 2030. This shows how more people are turning to platforms like Glide to bring their ideas to life without needing technical skills.

Key Takeaways

• Glide is a tool that helps you make apps fast.

• You can drag and drop to design without coding skills.

• It connects with Google Sheets or Airtable to update data live.

• This makes it great for projects that change often.

• Glide works well for small tasks like tracking items or planning events.

• But it might not work for big apps needing special features.

• For more options, try Momen, Bubble, or Softr instead.

• Glide's templates save time and make starting your app easy.

What is Glide?

Overview of Glide

Glide is a no-code platform that helps you make apps without coding. It uses a simple drag-and-drop tool, so anyone can design apps easily. Even if you're not good with tech, you can still create functional apps. Glide connects to tools like Google Sheets or Airtable to turn your data into interactive apps.

The platform is built to be simple, so you can focus on your ideas. You don’t have to worry about complicated tech stuff. Whether it’s for personal use, a small business, or a team project, Glide makes it easy to bring your app ideas to life.

Did you know? Glide is made to handle big data smoothly. It uses smart storage and retrieval systems to keep your app running fast and reliably.

Key Features of Glide

Glide has many features that make building apps super easy. Here are some of the best ones:

• Drag-and-Drop Builder: Add buttons, forms, and lists by dragging them into place.

• Real-Time Data Integration: Any changes in Google Sheets show up in your app instantly.

• Mobile-First Design: Apps look great on phones but also work on desktops.

• Templates: Start quickly with ready-made templates for different projects.

• Collaboration Tools: Share your app with others and control who can edit it.

These features make Glide a great choice for creating apps without needing to know advanced tech skills.

Common Use Cases for Glide

Glide is very flexible and works for many purposes. Here are some ways people use it:

• Inventory Management: Businesses track stock, connect data, and create reports easily. For example, StraightUp Collective switched from Excel to Glide, making their data easier to access and reducing mistakes.

• Customer Relationship Management (CRM): Small businesses build tools to manage clients and improve workflows.

• Event Management: Create apps to handle event sign-ups, schedules, and guest lists.

• Team Collaboration: Make apps to assign tasks, track progress, and manage projects.

• Personal Projects: Build apps for things like fitness tracking or budgeting to fit your needs.

Glide is easy to use and works for many ideas. Whether it’s for business or a personal project, it helps you turn your plans into real apps.

Strengths of Glide

Easy to Learn and Use

Glide makes building apps super simple. Its design is so easy that anyone can use it. You just drag and drop parts, link your data, and watch your app appear quickly.

Many people love how easy Glide is to use. They’ve shared stories of creating apps in hours, even with no experience. If coding seems hard, Glide takes that stress away. It’s great for anyone wanting to make apps fast and without trouble.

Tip: Use Glide’s templates to start faster and save time!

Fast App Development

Glide helps you create apps quickly. It’s built to save time and effort. Whether it’s a tool for tracking inventory or managing customers, Glide makes the process smooth and fast.

Its real-time data updates are amazing. When you change something in Google Sheets, your app updates instantly. This keeps your app fresh and saves you from doing extra work.

If you’re in a hurry to finish or need a quick prototype, Glide is perfect. It lets you focus on your ideas, not on tricky tech stuff.

Mobile-First Design

Glide makes sure your apps look awesome on phones. Since most people use phones daily, this design makes your app easy to use.

The platform adjusts your app for small screens automatically. You don’t need to fix the design yourself. While it works on desktops too, it’s best on mobile.

Did you know? Glide’s mobile-first design helps businesses connect with users easily, boosting interaction.

If you want a modern app that works well on phones, Glide is a great choice.

Real-Time Data Integration

Think about changing something in your spreadsheet and seeing it update in your app right away. That’s what Glide’s real-time data integration does. You don’t need to refresh or wait for updates. Glide links directly to Google Sheets or Airtable, so your app always shows the latest data.

This is great for apps that need live updates. For instance, if you’re tracking inventory, you can adjust stock numbers in your spreadsheet, and your app will instantly display the changes. It’s like carrying a live version of your data in your pocket.

Tip: Keep your spreadsheets neat and organized. Messy data can cause problems in your app.

Real-time syncing also makes teamwork easier. If several people edit the same spreadsheet, everyone sees the updates in the app right away. This keeps everyone on track without extra work. Glide’s real-time syncing saves time and helps avoid mistakes.

Collaboration and Permissions

Sharing your app with others is easy using Glide. You can invite teammates, clients, or anyone else to use it. Glide lets you decide who can view or edit the app, so you stay in control.

Setting permissions is simple. You can choose if someone gets full access or just viewing rights. For example, in a CRM app, your sales team might edit client info, while others can only view it.

Glide makes teamwork smooth. Teams can work together without needing complicated tools. You can even see who made changes, keeping everything clear and organized.

Did you know? Glide’s collaboration tools are perfect for remote teams. They help everyone stay connected and work efficiently from anywhere.

Whether you’re working with a team or sharing an app with clients, Glide’s collaboration and permission features make managing access simple and secure.

Limitations of Glide

Limited Backend Logic

Glide is good for simple apps but lacks advanced backend tools. It can't handle complex workflows or custom API setups. For example, you can't easily create multi-step automations or link datasets dynamically. Glide Tables are basic and work best for simple tasks.

This can be frustrating if your app needs more control over data processing. Glide works well for basic apps like inventory trackers or CRMs. But for advanced features, you may need a different platform.

Tip: Glide’s simplicity is great if you’re new to app building.

Data Source Constraints

Glide depends on tools like Google Sheets or Airtable for data. This makes starting easy but limits flexibility. If your app needs data from many sources or large datasets, it might slow down. Glide doesn’t have strong database tools, which makes scaling harder.

Another issue is live connections. If your data source goes offline, your app might stop working. Apps needing reliable data handling may face problems with Glide.

Did you know? Keeping your data neat helps avoid issues with Glide.

Scalability Challenges

Glide is best for small apps but struggles with bigger projects. As your app grows, performance may slow, and customization options are limited. Glide isn’t made for apps with many users or complex features.

For example, large organizations or public tools may outgrow Glide’s abilities. It’s ideal for lightweight apps but not for enterprise-level needs. If your app needs to grow fast, you’ll need a stronger platform.

Takeaway: Glide is great for small projects but not for big ones.

Limited AI and Extensibility

Glide has some limits with AI and flexibility. If you need smart features like chatbots or predictions, Glide may not work. It doesn’t have built-in AI tools or easy links to services like OpenAI. This can be a problem if your app depends on smart automation.

Adding custom features is also hard with Glide. You can’t easily use plugins or connect to unique APIs. For example, creating special workflows or linking to outside tools isn’t simple. Glide focuses on being easy, but this means less flexibility.

Tip: Need advanced AI or custom tools? Try Bubble or FlutterFlow. They offer more options for smart features and flexibility.

Glide works well for simple apps. But if your project needs advanced tools or heavy customization, Glide might not be enough.

Restricted Frontend Customization

Glide’s design tools are basic and limited. You can pick layouts and change colors or fonts, but not much else. If you want a unique look for your app, Glide won’t give you full control.

For example, you can’t fully change the layout or add cool animations. The drag-and-drop tool is simple but doesn’t allow detailed designs. This can be disappointing if you want your app to look special.

Did you know? Platforms like Webflow or FlutterFlow let you design apps exactly how you want.

Glide’s simplicity makes it easy to use, but it limits creativity. If you need more design freedom, another platform might be better.

Who Should Use Glide?

Best Users and Situations

Glide is great for people who want to make apps fast. You don’t need to know coding or spend weeks learning it. If you’re a small business owner, teacher, or have a creative idea, Glide can help.

For instance, small businesses can use Glide to track inventory or orders. Teachers might create apps for class schedules or sharing materials. Even for personal projects like wedding planning or fitness tracking, Glide makes it easy.

Tip: Use Glide’s templates to start quickly. They save time and give you a good base.

Glide is perfect for those who want simple and quick solutions. If you don’t like dealing with tricky tech setups, this platform is a great choice.

Projects That Work Well with Glide

Glide is best for small projects that use spreadsheets or basic data. Here are examples of what Glide can do:

• Team Tools: Make apps to assign tasks or track progress.

• Event Apps: Build tools for sign-ups, guest lists, or schedules.

• Customer Tracking: Create simple CRMs for managing clients and leads.

• Inventory Apps: Track stock and create reports easily.

• Personal Apps: Use Glide for budgeting or habit tracking.

Did you know? Glide’s real-time syncing is great for projects with changing data.

If you need a simple, mobile-friendly app, Glide is a great pick. It’s not made for huge systems, but for smaller ideas, it works really well.

Who Should Avoid Glide?

When Glide Isn’t the Right Fit

Glide isn’t ideal for every app. If your project needs complex backend workflows or lots of customization, Glide may not work well. It’s great for simple apps but struggles with advanced features like multi-step automations or dynamic API links.

Apps using large datasets or many data sources might face problems. Glide depends on tools like Google Sheets or Airtable, which aren’t great for handling huge amounts of data. If your app needs to grow fast or support thousands of users, Glide’s performance could slow down.

Glide also has limited design options. If you want a unique look or cool animations, its basic tools won’t be enough. For example, businesses wanting a polished, branded app might find Glide’s design too simple.

Tip: For scalability, advanced workflows, or custom designs, try Bubble or FlutterFlow.

Signs Glide May Not Be Enough

How can you tell if Glide isn’t right for your app? Here are some clues:

• Your app feels restricted: If you keep needing features Glide doesn’t have, it’s time to look elsewhere.

• You need smarter tools: Apps needing AI features like chatbots or predictions won’t work well with Glide.

• Your user base is growing quickly: Glide struggles with scaling. Apps with thousands of users need stronger platforms.

• You want detailed design control: Glide’s drag-and-drop tool is simple but lacks advanced customization.

Did you know? Platforms like Webflow or Adalo offer better design and scalability for growing apps.

If these issues sound familiar, switching to a more advanced platform can save time and effort.

Best Alternatives to Glide

If Glide doesn’t meet your needs, don’t worry. There are other no-code platforms to try. Three great options are Momen, Softr, and Bubble. Each has special features that might suit your goals better.

Momen: Powerful No-Code Platform with AI

Momen is a modern tool that mixes ease with advanced features. It’s great for making apps and using AI to automate tasks. Think of it as Glide’s simplicity combined with Bubble’s backend power, plus built-in AI tools.

With Momen, you can design apps, create AI assistants, and set up automations. It lets you control both the frontend and backend easily. Unlike Glide, which uses templates, Momen allows full customization. You can adjust workflows, connect APIs, and tweak every detail.

Here’s how Momen compares to Glide:

Why Pick Momen?
Choose Momen if you want advanced features and AI tools. It’s perfect for scalable apps with dynamic options while staying user-friendly.

Softr: Easy App Building with AI

Softr is another great choice, especially for simplicity. It helps you make apps and websites fast without needing tech skills. Softr works well with Airtable, making it ideal for data-based projects.

Softr stands out for its focus on AI. You can use AI tools to improve workflows or personalize user experiences. While Glide is best for mobile apps, Softr shines in creating polished web apps.

Here’s a quick comparison:

Pro Tip:
Softr is perfect for client portals or web apps that need a professional look. Its drag-and-drop builder makes it easy for anyone to use.

Bubble: Advanced Backend Features

Bubble is the platform for complex projects. It’s one of the most powerful no-code tools available. Bubble lets you create detailed workflows, connect APIs, and build scalable apps.

Unlike Glide, which is best for simple apps, Bubble handles advanced tasks. You get full control over your app’s design, logic, and features. However, it takes more time to learn. If you’re ready to invest effort, Bubble can help you build almost anything.

Here’s how Bubble compares to Glide:

Why Pick Bubble?
Bubble is great for apps needing advanced workflows or scaling. It’s ideal for startups, businesses, or anyone building feature-rich apps.

These platforms offer unique strengths. Whether you need simplicity, AI integration, or advanced backend tools, there’s a no-code platform for you.

Adalo: Build Mobile Apps Easily

Adalo is great for making mobile apps without coding. It’s a no-code platform focused on apps for phones. With Adalo, your app will feel smooth and work well on mobile devices.

Adalo’s visual builder is simple to use. You can drag buttons, forms, or lists onto your app screen. This lets you see how your app will look as you create it. Adalo also connects to outside data sources, so your app can show live information.

Why choose Adalo?

• Mobile-Friendly Design: Apps look like they’re made for iOS or Android.

• Easy Customization: Change layouts, colors, and features to match your ideas.

• Data Connections: Link your app to databases for flexible data use.

• Simple Publishing: Send your app to the App Store or Google Play easily.

Adalo works well for small businesses or startups needing quick apps. Whether for customers or teams, Adalo makes app building fast and simple.

Tip: Start with Adalo’s templates to save time. They’re easy to adjust for your needs.

Webflow + Memberstack/Zapier: Design Your Way

Want full control over your app’s look? Webflow with Memberstack and Zapier is a strong choice. Webflow is a no-code builder for detailed designs. Memberstack adds user accounts, and Zapier automates tasks. Together, they make a flexible system for advanced apps.

Webflow lets you design every detail, like fonts, colors, and animations. Memberstack helps manage users, while Zapier connects your app to other tools for automation.

Why this combo works:

• Custom Designs: Webflow lets you create unique, polished apps.

• User Management: Memberstack handles accounts and permissions easily.

• Automation Tools: Zapier saves time by automating tasks.

• Growth-Friendly: This setup works well for apps that need to expand.

Webflow + Memberstack/Zapier is great for businesses wanting branded apps. It’s more complex than other platforms but offers unmatched design freedom.

Did you know? Webflow’s editor lets you design apps without coding, perfect for creative projects.

AppSheet: Business Apps Made Simple

AppSheet helps businesses create apps to solve problems. It’s a no-code platform that turns data into useful tools. Connect AppSheet to Google Sheets, Excel, or SQL databases to build apps quickly.

AppSheet is highly customizable. You can add features like charts, forms, and workflows to fit your needs. It also automates tasks and shows data visually.

Why AppSheet is great for businesses:

• Data Connections: Link your app to multiple sources for synced updates.

• Automated Workflows: Set rules to handle repetitive tasks automatically.

• Custom Features: Add dashboards and forms to make your app helpful.

• Device Support: Apps work well on phones and computers.

AppSheet is perfect for teams managing inventory or improving workflows. It’s easy to create apps that boost efficiency.

Pro Tip: Check out AppSheet’s sample apps for ideas. They show what’s possible with the platform.

FlutterFlow: Build Apps for iOS and Android

Want an app that works on both iOS and Android? FlutterFlow is a great choice. It’s a no-code tool based on Google’s Flutter framework. This means you can create apps for multiple platforms without coding.

FlutterFlow lets you design and customize your app easily. You can change layouts, add animations, and connect APIs. Its visual builder shows your app as you create it, making the process simple and fun.

Why Pick FlutterFlow?

Here’s why FlutterFlow might be perfect for your project:

• Works on Both Platforms: Your app will run on iOS and Android.

• Custom Designs: Adjust every part of your app to match your ideas.

• Advanced Tools: Add animations, connect APIs, and use Firebase for backend tasks.

• Export Code: Share your app’s code with developers if needed.

Tip: Use FlutterFlow’s ready-made widgets to save time and still make a great app.

FlutterFlow is great for anyone, whether you’re a beginner or experienced. It’s perfect for personal projects or business tools, giving you the freedom to create unique apps.

Open Source Choices: Budibase, Grist, and Rowy

Do you prefer open-source tools? Platforms like Budibase, Grist, and Rowy let you build apps while keeping full control. These tools are great for customizing apps or hosting them yourself.

Budibase: Fast Internal Tools

Budibase is an open-source platform for creating business tools like dashboards or admin panels. It connects to databases and APIs, making it easy to build apps that use live data.

Why choose Budibase?

• Host Yourself: Keep your apps on your own server for control.

• Editable Templates: Start with a template and change it to fit your needs.

• Automated Tasks: Set workflows to handle repetitive jobs automatically.

Did you know? Budibase is free, making it great for small businesses on a budget.

Grist: Spreadsheet-Based App Builder

Grist mixes spreadsheets with database power. It’s ideal for apps needing complex data setups, like CRMs or trackers. If you know Excel, Grist will feel familiar.

Key features of Grist:

• Linked Data: Connect tables for advanced data relationships.

• Custom Displays: Show data in charts, cards, or other views.

• Open Source: Change the code to add features or integrations.

Tip: Use Grist for projects needing both flexibility and structure, like team management.

Rowy: Apps with Firebase Power

Rowy combines no-code tools with Firebase’s backend features. It’s great for apps needing real-time updates or cloud functions. You can manage your app’s database using a spreadsheet-like interface.

Why pick Rowy?

• Firebase Support: Use Firebase for login, storage, and live updates.

• Spreadsheet Style: Handle app data as easily as editing a spreadsheet.

• Cloud Functions: Add advanced logic without writing hard code.

Did you know? Rowy is perfect for developers who want to mix no-code tools with coding.

These open-source platforms let you build apps your way. Whether you need a simple tool or a detailed system, Budibase, Grist, and Rowy have options for you.

Comparison of Glide and Alternatives

Frontend Control

Glide makes app design simple with templates and drag-and-drop tools. You can change colors, fonts, and layouts easily. But it doesn’t allow full creative freedom. If you want unique designs or animations, Glide may feel limited.

Other platforms offer more design options. Bubble lets you customize every part of your app’s look. Momen goes further with React-based tools for detailed designs. Webflow, combined with Memberstack, is great for polished and branded apps.

Tip: Want creative designs? Webflow or Momen are great choices.

Backend Power

Glide’s backend tools are basic and work well with spreadsheets. It’s good for simple apps like inventory trackers or CRMs. But it struggles with complex workflows or API connections. Multi-step automations and large datasets are hard to manage.

Bubble and Backendless are better for advanced backend needs. Bubble supports detailed workflows and API links. Backendless offers real-time databases and scalable backend services. Momen combines ease of use with strong backend tools, including APIs.

Did you know? Backendless works offline, making it great for big apps.

AI Features

Glide has basic AI options like OpenAI plugins. These work for simple tasks but lack depth. You can’t create AI assistants or predictive tools directly in Glide.

Momen offers built-in AI tools for automation and data summaries. Softr uses AI to personalize user experiences. Bubble connects to external AI services for flexible features.

Pro Tip: Use Momen for easy AI integration in your app.

Best Use Cases for Each Platform

Different no-code platforms work well for specific projects. Here’s a simple guide to help you choose the right one.

1. Glide: Easy and Quick Apps

Use Glide for small, fast apps. It’s great for:

• Small Business Tools: Track inventory or manage clients.

• Event Planning: Apps for guest lists or schedules.

• Personal Projects: Budgeting, fitness, or hobby apps.

Tip: Beginners can start with Glide because it’s simple to use.

2. Momen: Advanced Apps with AI

Choose Momen for apps needing smart features and growth. It’s best for:

• Dynamic Apps: Custom workflows and backend tools.

• AI Features: Chatbots or predictive tools.

• Growing Businesses: Apps that expand with your needs.

3. Softr: Professional Web Apps

Pick Softr for polished web apps. It works well for:

• Client Portals: Manage client data easily.

• Team Tools: Dashboards for collaboration.

• Websites with Data: Connect Airtable or Google Sheets.

4. Bubble: Complex and Scalable Apps

Use Bubble for detailed apps with advanced features. It’s perfect for:

• Startups: Build MVPs with workflows.

• Marketplaces: E-commerce or booking apps.

• Custom Designs: Apps needing unique layouts.

5. Adalo: Mobile-Friendly Apps

Choose Adalo for apps that feel native on phones. It’s great for:

• Customer Apps: Loyalty programs or bookings.

• Team Tools: Task management apps.

• Quick Prototypes: Test ideas on mobile users.

6. Webflow + Memberstack/Zapier: Creative Apps

This combo is ideal for apps needing unique designs. Use it for:

• Branded Apps: Apps with polished visuals.

• Creative Projects: Blogs or portfolios.

• User Accounts: Apps with login systems.

7. AppSheet: Business Tools

Pick AppSheet for apps that improve workflows. It’s best for:

• Automation: Handle repetitive tasks easily.

• Data Tracking: Inventory or project tools.

• Team Sharing: Share data across teams.

8. FlutterFlow: Apps for iOS and Android

Choose FlutterFlow for apps that work on both platforms. It’s great for:

• Consumer Apps: Retail or delivery apps.

• Interactive Tools: Apps with animations.

• Code Export: Share app code with developers.

9. Open Source Options: Full Control

Use platforms like Budibase, Grist, or Rowy for:

• Self-Hosting: Host apps yourself.

• Complex Data: Manage advanced data setups.

• Developer Projects: Mix coding with no-code tools.

Pro Tip: Open-source tools are great for full control over your app.

Each platform has unique strengths. Match your project’s needs to the right tool!

When to Use Glide vs When to Switch

Ideal Scenarios for Glide

Glide works best when you need simple, data-driven apps quickly. If you’re managing a small project or creating a tool for personal use, it’s a great choice. For example, you can build an app to track inventory, organize event sign-ups, or manage a team’s tasks. Glide’s drag-and-drop builder and real-time data syncing make it easy to get started, even if you’re not tech-savvy.

You’ll also find Glide helpful if you’re working with a small team or need a prototype to test an idea. Its mobile-first design ensures your app looks great on phones, which is perfect for users on the go. If your project doesn’t require advanced features or heavy customization, Glide can save you time and effort.

Tip: Use Glide’s templates to jumpstart your project and customize them to fit your needs.

Signs You’re Outgrowing Glide

As your app grows, you might notice Glide’s limitations. If you need complex workflows, advanced backend logic, or integration with multiple data sources, Glide may start to feel restrictive. For instance, apps requiring dynamic API connections or custom automations can be challenging to build on this platform.

Another sign is when your user base expands. Glide struggles with scalability, so apps with thousands of users or large datasets may experience performance issues. If you’re constantly wishing for more design freedom or advanced features, it’s probably time to explore other platforms.

Did you know? Platforms like Bubble or FlutterFlow offer more flexibility and scalability for growing projects.

Questions to Ask Before Migrating

Before switching from Glide, ask yourself a few key questions:

1. What features do I need that Glide doesn’t offer?
   Identify the specific limitations you’re facing. This will help you choose the right alternative.

2. How complex is my app?
   If your app requires advanced workflows or custom designs, a platform like Bubble might be a better fit.

3. What’s my budget and timeline?
   Some platforms take longer to learn or cost more. Make sure the switch aligns with your resources.

4. Do I need scalability?
   If your app is growing fast, look for a platform that can handle more users and data.

By answering these questions, you’ll have a clearer idea of whether it’s time to move on and which platform suits your needs best.

Glide is great for making simple apps fast. Its easy-to-use tools and live data updates are perfect for beginners or small tasks. But if you need more advanced features, bigger app growth, or custom designs, try Softr, Bubble, or FlutterFlow instead.

The trick is to choose a platform that fits your needs and future plans. Whether it’s for personal use or business, there’s a no-code tool to help you create your app.

FAQ

What is the best use case for Glide?

Glide is great for simple apps using data. You can make tools for tracking inventory, planning events, or personal projects like budgeting. It’s ideal for beginners who want fast results without coding.

Can I use Glide for large-scale apps?

Not really. Glide isn’t good for big apps with lots of users or data. If your app needs to grow or have advanced features, try platforms like Bubble or FlutterFlow instead.

Does Glide support AI features?

Glide has basic AI options, like OpenAI plugins, but they’re limited. For smarter tools like chatbots or predictions, Momen or Softr are better choices with built-in AI tools.

Is Glide free to use?

Glide has a free plan, but it’s limited. You’ll get fewer features and Glide’s branding on your app. Paid plans give more options, storage, and customization. Check their pricing to find the best fit.

How does Glide compare to Bubble?

Glide is easier and faster for small apps. Bubble is better for complex projects with advanced features. Glide is simple to use, while Bubble gives more control over design and workflows. Start with Glide for quick apps, and switch to Bubble if your app grows.

Tip: Unsure where to start? Try Glide first, then move to Bubble later if needed.

See Also

Top 10 Alternatives to Bubble for Various App Requirements

Is Bolt.New The Ideal AI App Builder For You?

Top No-Code Web App Builders For New Users in 2025

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Five Approaches To Transform Figma Designs Into Working Apps