Migrating from Bubble to Code: Why, When and How to Succeed?

Discover why and how to migrate your application from Bubble to a coded solution. Strategies, steps, best practices and advice for a successful transition.

Introduction

Bubble is a convenient and fast platform for creating MVPs and low-code applications. However, as your projects grow in complexity, Bubble can show its limitations. In this article, I explain why migrating from Bubble to code can be an excellent strategy, when is the right time to take the step, and how to successfully make this transition with peace of mind.

1. Why migrate from Bubble to code?

Bubble is powerful, but not without limits. Here are the main constraints that drive migration:

Performance

  • Imagine a traffic spike on your application: with complex workflows, Bubble could quickly reach its scalability limits.
  • Response times increase for heavy calculations or complex interactions.

Rising Costs

  • Premium plans, based on Workload Units (WU), can quickly become expensive:
    • 250,000 WU: included in the Growth plan at $119/month
    • 500,000 WU: included in the Team plan at $349/month
    • Beyond 500,000 WU, you need to pay $0.30 per 1,000 WU or via additional packs.
    • With 1,000 daily active users, an app can easily exceed 250,000 WU/month.
  • A coded solution can be optimized to reduce these costs.

Lack of Customization

  • Advanced features remain limited.
  • Available plugins don't always cover your specific needs.

Dependency

  • Your project remains tied to Bubble. If the platform changes its pricing or shuts down, your business could be at risk
  • You don't own the intellectual property of your solution.

Advanced Integrations

  • Advanced APIs, WebSockets, or custom technologies are often difficult to implement on Bubble.

Credibility and Valuation

  • Many investors may be more reassured by coded applications, which they often perceive as more flexible and scalable.

2. When to migrate?

There are situations where migration becomes really relevant. Here are the main warning signs:

  • Rapid growth: If your application starts attracting many users or if your workflows become too heavy, it might be time to consider a coded solution.
  • Technical limitations: You want to integrate more advanced features, manage complex logic, or offer a completely custom user experience.
  • Rising budget: Bubble usage fees exceed the initial savings made through its simplicity.
  • Need for total control: You want to fully own your application, including infrastructure and code.

3. How to migrate effectively?

Moving from a Bubble application to a coded solution requires some organization. Two main strategies stand out: progressive migration and complete migration.

A. Progressive migration: step by step

Principle: Migrate key features while keeping the Bubble application operational.

Key steps:

  1. Identify priority features to code.
  2. Start by creating a solid backend to handle complex data.
  3. Synchronize databases (via APIs or webhooks) to maintain consistency.
  4. Progressively replace each part of Bubble with code.

Advantages:

  • No interruption for your users.
  • Smooth transition and real-time testing.

Disadvantages:

  • Cost and complexity of maintaining both systems.
  • Risks of latency or synchronization errors.

B. Complete migration: a total restart

Principle: Recreate the entire application in parallel and perform a single switch.

Key steps:

  1. Rethink the technical architecture, such as front-end, back-end, and database.
  2. Develop a complete solution, adapted to current and future needs.
  3. Migrate data and users.
  4. Perform rigorous testing before switching.

Advantages:

  • Simplified management (single system).
  • Optimized code from the start.

Disadvantages:

  • Higher initial delays and costs.
  • Requires careful planning.

4. Best practices for successful migration

To succeed in your migration, it's all about good organization and well-chosen tools. Here are the best practices:

Strategic Planning

  • Take time to define your priorities: scalability, key features, or cost reduction.
  • Choose an appropriate tech stack (e.g., MERN, Node.js, PostgreSQL, etc.).

Modular Architecture

  • Favor modular or microservices-based solutions.
  • Plan for a performant database capable of handling complex relationships.

Smooth Synchronization

  • Use tools like Ngrok to test your local APIs with Bubble.
  • Favor REST or GraphQL APIs to synchronize data between Bubble and the new backend.

Rigorous Testing

  • Thoroughly test each feature before going live to avoid unpleasant surprises.
  • Ensure the stability and performance of the new system.

Team and Expertise

  • Involve experienced developers to design, code, and maintain the application.

5. Conclusion

Bubble is a great solution for quickly launching MVPs or simple projects. However, when complexity or costs increase, migrating to code becomes a logical and cost-effective solution. Whether you opt for progressive or complete migration, success relies on solid planning and well-thought-out architecture, adapted to your ambitions.

Are you ready to take the step? Put in place a clear strategy and surround yourself with a competent team to make this migration a success.

Related Articles

Bubble vs Code: Which Choice for Which Needs?

Detailed comparison between Bubble and custom development.

What is an MVP and How to Succeed in its Development?

Key steps to launch an effective MVP.