Bubble vs Code: Which choice for which needs?

Introduction

Bubble for simplicity or code for total control? This is a dilemma that entrepreneurs and developers often face. In this article, I help you explore the strengths and weaknesses of each approach to make an informed choice.

1. Bubble: An accessible but limited low-code solution

Bubble shines through its simplicity and speed, but when projects become more ambitious, its limitations quickly become apparent.

Advantages of Bubble:

1. Accessibility:

   • Perfect for non-developers: with its clear drag-and-drop interfaces, Bubble offers a gentle and accessible learning curve.

2. Development speed:

   • Allows building an MVP or testing an idea in record time.

   • All-in-one: integrated back-end, front-end, and hosting.

3. Low initial cost:

   • No need to hire a technical team, reducing costs from the start.

   • Affordable basic plan.

4. Rich ecosystem:

   • Access to a library of popular plugins (Stripe, Mailchimp...).

   • An active community offering tutorials and support.

Limitations of Bubble:

1. Performance and scalability:

   • Not suitable for high-traffic projects or complex workflows.

   • If your application needs to handle large volumes of data, response times may slow down, which can frustrate your users.

2. Limited customization:

   • Advanced features often out of reach.

   • Complex integrations like WebSockets impossible.

3. Intellectual property:

   • The source code doesn't belong to you and you have no access to it. You're totally dependent on the platform.

   • If Bubble closes or changes its business model, the project could be compromised.

4. Growing costs:

   • Costs can quickly escalate, especially if your application uses many resources (Workload Units).

   • Unpredictable costs when exceeding limits.

2. Code: Freedom without compromise

Coding an application requires more work initially, but in exchange, you gain freedom and control.

Advantages of code:

1. Absolute flexibility:

   • You can create features exactly as you imagine them, without technical limitations.

   • Total freedom in architecture design and integrations.

2. Scalability:

   • Ability to handle millions of users through adapted infrastructures.

   • Performance optimization with cloud or custom solutions.

3. Intellectual property:

   • The code belongs to the company.

   • Independence from third-party platforms.

4. Increased credibility:

   • Investors often prefer coded applications, seeing them as more sustainable and scalable.

5. Long-term cost:

   • Although more expensive initially, a coded project can be more cost-effective in the long run.

Disadvantages of code:

1. Development time:

   • Takes longer to set up than a Bubble solution.

   • Requires an experienced technical team.

2. High initial cost:

   • Recruiting developers and setting up robust infrastructure.

3. Complexity:

   • Coding requires solid technical skills, especially for managing databases, APIs, or security.

3. Intellectual property: A major issue

Intellectual property is often overlooked but essential to ensure your project's sustainability.

• With Bubble:

  • On Bubble, you don't have access to the source code, making you entirely dependent on their platform and infrastructure.

• With code:

  • The company owns all infrastructure and source files, offering total freedom.

  • Migration and infrastructure changes possible at any time.

4. When to choose Bubble and when to code?

When to use Bubble:

• Ideal for:

  • Launching an MVP, quickly testing an idea, or creating a prototype with limited resources.

  • Simple projects with uncomplicated workflows.

  • Entrepreneurs with limited budget or technical expertise.

When to opt for code:

• Essential for:

  • Complex projects requiring heavy calculations or advanced integrations.

  • Large-scale applications with thousands of active users.

  • When you really want to own your application and not depend on an external provider.

5. Bubble vs Code Comparison: Summary Table

Aspect Bubble (low-code) Coded project Rapid development Ideal for quick MVP Longer and more complex but robust Initial cost Low Higher Customization Limited Unlimited Scalability Difficult to manage for large projects Optimized for millions of users Dependency High (depends on Bubble) Low (total control) Performance Sufficient for simple projects Optimal and adjustable Intellectual property Limited (no source code) Total Maintenance Bubble experts required Possible with any competent developer Credibility Less solid More solid and sustainable

6. Conclusion

So, Bubble or code? It all depends on what matters most to you: simplicity or flexibility?

• Bubble is perfect for starting quickly, with a limited budget and restricted technical skills.

• Code becomes essential for complex, scalable, and independent projects.

And why not combine both? Launch your idea quickly with Bubble, then, as it grows, migrate to code to gain freedom and scalability.

Are you ready to make a choice? Take a moment to evaluate your needs, means, and long-term vision. The best solution is the one that adapts to your project and ambitions.