Introduction
Knack vs Retool
Knack and Retool are low code platforms for building custom apps without full code. Knack focuses on database apps and visual layouts. Retool targets developer-built internal dashboards with SQL and JS.
This comparison highlights use cases, pricing, ease of use, and why Tadabase offers a unified solution with visual design and compliance.
TL DR Knack is best for simple database apps with flat pricing. Retool is best for developer dashboards and data manipulation. Tadabase delivers both plus audit logs, role access, compliance, and app-level pricing.
Quick Comparison Table
| Platform | Best For | Starting Price |
|---|---|---|
| Knack | Database apps and forms with flat pricing | 59 per month unlimited users |
| Retool | Developer dashboards and admin tools | Free, team plan 10 per user per month |
| Tadabase | Visual internal apps with compliance | View pricing |
What Knack Does Best
Pros:
Drag and drop database tables, forms and pages- Flat per app pricing with unlimited users
- Easy to start with templates and visual layouts
Cons:
Customization may require CSS or HTML- Less suited for developer pipelines or code logic
What Retool Does Best
Pros:
- Full control with SQL, JS and API integration
- Fast build of data-centric internal tools
- Reusable components and custom JS logic
Cons:
- No unlimited user tiers; pricing per user
- Poor UI customization and page layout tools
Feature Comparison Overview
| Feature | Knack | Retool | Tadabase |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unlimited End Users | Yes | No | Yes |
| Workflow Automation | Basic | Advanced | Advanced |
| Role Based Access | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Audit Logs | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Developer Code Support | No | Yes required | Optional |
| Pricing Model | Flat per app | Per user | Flat per account |
| UI Layout Control | Good | Poor | Full |
Pricing Overview
Knack
- Starts at 59 per month per app with unlimited end users
Retool
- Free tier available
- Team plan 10 per user per month
User Feedback Summary
| Platform | Ease of Use | Customization | Support |
|---|---|---|---|
| Knack | High | Visual layouts only | Good |
| Retool | Medium | High with code | Developer forums |
In Our Experience
Knack makes it easy to build database driven apps visually with simple pricing. Retool gives control to developers but lacks design tools and has per user costs. Tadabase brings visual app design, workflows, audit logs, compliance, and flat pricing all in one.
Recommended Alternatives
| Platform | Description | Link |
|---|---|---|
| Tadabase | Internal apps with compliance and flat pricing | tadabase.io |
| Caspio | Unlimited users and compliance | Caspio alternatives |
| Airtable | Spreadsheet style app building | Airtable alternatives |
Why Teams Choose Tadabase
- Visual application builder flexible for both internal and external apps
- Unlimited end users included in app pricing
- Includes workflows, audit logs, compliance, role based access
- Supports integrations, API, flat pricing model
