TL;DR Summary

• Retool is built for developers to create internal tools using JavaScript, SQL, and drag-and-drop components.

• AppSheet is a no-code platform for business users to build apps from spreadsheets with built-in workflows and mobile support.

• Tadabase offers the power of Retool and the accessibility of AppSheet, with visual app building, robust automation, compliance features, and flat account pricing.

Introduction

Retool and AppSheet both belong in the low-code and no-code category, but they’re made for different audiences.

Retool is best suited for technical teams building internal dashboards or apps with custom logic.

AppSheet is designed for business users looking to quickly spin up mobile-friendly apps from spreadsheets or databases.

Here’s how they compare across core features, pricing, automation, and scalability — plus why Tadabase might be a better choice for teams that want full control without the complexity or user-based pricing.

Feature Comparison

App Building and Customization

• Retool allows engineers to build custom apps using SQL, JavaScript, and UI components.

• AppSheet generates apps automatically from data sources and allows rule-based logic for customizing behavior.

• Tadabase combines drag-and-drop UI with structured databases, forms, custom logic, dashboards, and permissions.

Workflow Automation

• Retool supports code-based logic, event triggers, and custom functions.

• AppSheet includes workflows, approvals, email alerts, and data sync actions.

• Tadabase offers point-and-click automation builders, scheduled jobs, conditional logic, and webhook integrations.

Data Integrations

• Retool connects directly to SQL, REST APIs, and third-party services.

• AppSheet integrates with Google Sheets, Excel, SQL, and cloud services like Drive and OneDrive.

• Tadabase supports native integrations, data pipelines, REST APIs, and secure webhook triggers.

Compliance and Permissions

• Retool supports granular access control, SSO, and team management.

• AppSheet provides basic access controls and Google Cloud integration, but limited HIPAA readiness.

• Tadabase includes full audit logs, granular permissions, user roles, and HIPAA-ready compliance.

Pricing Overview

Retool

• Free for individuals and small teams.

• Paid plans start around $10 per user per month.

• Advanced features require higher-tier pricing or enterprise plans.

AppSheet

• Starts at approximately $5 per user per month.

• Higher-tier plans include automation, advanced integrations, and governance.

• Enterprise plans available through Google Cloud.

Tadabase

• Flat monthly pricing per account.

• Unlimited users, apps, and workflows on all plans.

• No per-user charges or pricing surprises.

User Ratings and Feedback

Retool

• Developers praise its power and speed for building internal tools.

• Some note performance issues and a learning curve for non-coders.

• Price can scale quickly for large teams.

AppSheet

• Users love its simplicity and mobile support.

• Limited in logic complexity and visual customization.

• Works well for quick prototypes or lightweight apps.

Pros and Cons

Retool Pros

• Full customization with code

• Great for internal tools

• Powerful integrations and data handling

Retool Cons

• Requires technical skills

• Higher pricing per user

• Performance can lag at scale

AppSheet Pros

• Easy for non-developers

• Mobile and offline support

• Google ecosystem integration

AppSheet Cons

• Limited logic and design flexibility

• Spreadsheet-based structure can feel restrictive

• Varying compliance and governance across plans

Conclusion

Choose Retool if you have developers on your team and need to build complex, custom internal tools with direct database access and full UI control.

Choose AppSheet if you’re looking for a no-code tool to quickly spin up apps from spreadsheets with some automation and mobile functionality.

Choose Tadabase if you want the best of both — a powerful visual builder with logic, workflows, and enterprise-grade compliance, but with simple, flat pricing that scales with your business.

Why Teams Choose Tadabase

• Flat pricing per account with no user limits

• Build structured apps with workflows and automation

• HIPAA-ready compliance features

• Relational data, reporting, and visual design

• Works for any internal process or operational workflow