Introduction
Airtable and Bubble are two popular no-code platforms used to build internal tools and apps. Airtable focuses on spreadsheet-style data organization, while Bubble is geared toward creating full custom web applications.
This guide compares features, pricing, compliance, and real-world usage — and shows where Tadabase stands out.
TL;DR: Airtable is great for light databases and spreadsheets. Bubble is better for building interactive apps. Tadabase combines both with automations, scale, and built-in compliance.
Analogy: Airtable is a smart spreadsheet. Bubble is a custom app studio. Tadabase is a full operations platform for internal tools.
Quick Comparison Table
| Platform | Best For | Starting Price |
|---|---|---|
| Airtable | Teams needing fast spreadsheet-style databases | $10/user/mo |
| Bubble | Full web applications and custom logic | $29/mo per app |
| Tadabase | Scalable internal tools, automation, HIPAA-ready | View pricing |
What Is Airtable?
Airtable is a spreadsheet-database hybrid used for organizing data, workflows, and lightweight automations. It’s easy to learn and flexible enough for many business needs.
Pros:
Easy to use with familiar spreadsheet interface- Great for managing data visually (grid, calendar, Kanban)
- Includes built-in automations and AI-generated templates
Cons:
Limited customization for public apps- Interface designer is only available on higher tiers
"Airtable makes it easy to get started, but harder to scale apps visually." — NoCode MBA
What Is Bubble?
Bubble is a visual programming platform that lets you build and launch full-featured web apps without code. It includes front-end design tools, workflows, and database management.
Pros:
- Drag-and-drop app builder with pixel-level control
- Visual workflows for backend logic
- Large plugin marketplace and third-party extensions
Cons:
- Steeper learning curve for non-technical users
- Performance tuning may be required for complex apps
"Bubble is incredibly powerful, but you have to invest time to learn it." — NoCode MBA
Feature Comparison
| Feature | Airtable | Bubble | Tadabase |
|---|---|---|---|
| Visual Builder | Limited | Yes |
Yes |
| HIPAA Compliance | Enterprise Only | Enterprise Only | Yes |
| Audit Logs | Yes (Pro+) |
Plugin-based | Yes |
| PDF Generation | No | With Plugin | Yes |
| Advanced Roles | Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
| Automation | Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
| Integrations | Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Pricing Breakdown
Airtable
- Free: 1,000 records per base, limited automations
- Plus: $10/user/mo
- Pro: $20/user/mo
- Enterprise: Custom pricing
Bubble
- Free: Limited features, Bubble branding
- Starter: $29/app/mo
- Growth: $119/app/mo
- Enterprise: Custom pricing
Review Summary
| Platform | G2 Rating | Capterra Rating | Quote |
|---|---|---|---|
| Airtable | 4.7 | 4.6 | "Great for data tracking and collaboration." — G2 |
| Bubble | 4.4 | 4.6 | "Build apps without code, visually." — G2 |
TadaScore Comparison
| Platform | Automation | Compliance | Ease of Use | Flexibility | TadaScore | Rank |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Airtable | 7.0 | 6.0 | 9.0 | 6.5 | 7.1 | 3rd |
| Bubble | 8.5 | 7.0 | 6.5 | 9.0 | 7.8 | 2nd |
| Tadabase | 9.5 | 10.0 | 8.0 | 9.5 | 9.3 | 1st |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Airtable HIPAA compliant?
No, only on enterprise plans with a signed BAA.
Can Bubble support automation?
Yes, but workflows must be created manually and performance varies.
Can I migrate from Airtable to Tadabase?
Yes. Tadabase supports data import, APIs, and migration assistance.
Why Teams Choose Tadabase
- HIPAA-ready out of the box
- Unlimited users on flat pricing
- Powerful automation and API
- Audit logs and PDF support
- Granular user roles and permissions
