Can low-code tools make it cheaper and faster to create mobile apps? How would they work building MVP versus production apps? We look at 3 startups building these tools:

  • Draftbit, launched in 2020, a YCombinator backed startup that fasttracks mobile app development in React Native.
  • BuilderX, launched in 2019, fasttrack design for web in React and mobile apps in React Native.
  • Supernova Studio launched in 2017, tool that converts Sketch files to React Native or Flutter code.

The opinion:

  • These tools can speed up the design to initial prototype. However they require a technical knowledge to setup and use.
  • Draftbit is the most practical for creating simple prototypes for early user testing. However, it’s far too limited for a production quality product.

Background

How apps are usually created: there are three main ways that mobile apps are developed:

  • Traditional heavy weight approach: developed by engineers using tools such as Xcode for iOS or Android Studio.
  • First generation of cross platform that usually wraps a mobile website in an app: PhoneGap, Ionic, Xamarin, Titanium
  • More modern, lightweight with faster performance: React Native and Flutter.

And for no-code: there’s two approaches:

  • Web based builders such as Adalo and Glide.

Low code: These tools automates coding the app design. They can be useful as a starting point for developers.

Deep Dive

Supernova is extensive and feature rich for the design and initial code generation.

  • Takes designs from Sketch, allow detailed design and animation. Then generates code for the key programming platforms: iOS, Android, React Native and Flutter code.
  • Feels well suited as a productivity tool for a mobile front-end engineer.
Introducing Supernova Studio - Prototypr

BuilderX is a simpler version of Supernova.

  • Less complicated interface and without the animation features. Exports only React Native code.
  • Still requires an engineer to prepare the mobile app for use.


Draftbit feels the most end-to-end complete.

  • It’s possible to create an app and have it running on your phone within minutes. No developer required.
  • Allows more designers to create more working features before having a developer become involved.