About Adalo
Adalo is a no-code app development platform that lets you build native iOS and Android applications without writing a single line of code. For anyone who's ever had a brilliant app idea but felt daunted by the complexity of traditional coding, Adalo provides an accessible solution. With its drag-and-drop interface, the platform allows you to design and customise your app visually, which can be a breath of fresh air for non-technical users. The real magic, however, lies in its ability to integrate functionality through databases and AI-powered features, making it a versatile tool for entrepreneurs and small businesses alike.
One of the standout features of Adalo is its database integration, which allows users to create data-driven applications effortlessly. You can set up collections, manage user data, and even create relationships between different data types, all through an easily navigable interface. Additionally, Adalo offers pre-built components that you can plug into your app, like lists, forms, and charts, which can save you considerable time that would otherwise be spent on design and coding. The platform also allows you to publish your app directly to the Apple App Store and Google Play Store, eliminating the hassle of dealing with complex deployment processes.
When it comes to pricing, Adalo operates on a freemium model. You can start building your app for free, but you'll find limitations in terms of features and the number of applications you can create. Paid plans start from around £30 per month, which unlocks additional features like custom domain usage and increased storage. While this might sound reasonable, you need to be aware that costs can quickly add up if you're looking to scale your app or add advanced functionalities. Therefore, it’s important to have a clear idea of your app’s requirements before diving in.
Adalo is ideal for startups and small businesses that need to get their app off the ground quickly without the overhead of hiring a developer. However, if you're a seasoned developer looking for flexibility and customisation, you might find Adalo limiting. The platform is fantastic for building prototypes or MVPs, but if you need a more complex application, the no-code nature may restrict you from implementing specific functionalities that require custom code. Overall, Adalo is a great entry point into app development for those willing to experiment and learn, but it may not be the best fit for every project, particularly those demanding high levels of customisation and scalability.
Our Review
Verified 11 May 2026Reviewed by Delv Editorial, Delv Team
When I first stumbled upon Adalo, I was sceptical. No-code? Really? But after diving in, I can say this platform is genuinely impressive for those of us who can’t code but have a million app ideas floating around in our heads. The drag-and-drop interface is a dream, making it easy to throw together an app without the tediousness of coding. I was able to whip up a basic prototype for a local coffee shop's loyalty programme in an afternoon, which is something I never thought possible.
What I particularly like about Adalo is its database integration. It’s not just about pretty interfaces; I could set up user accounts and manage data like a pro. You can create collections, link data, and even pull in external data if you need to. This makes it a solid choice for anyone looking to build a data-driven app without getting bogged down in technical details. Plus, the ability to publish directly to app stores from within Adalo is a game-changer for those eager to get their app into users' hands quickly.
However, it’s not all sunshine and rainbows. The free tier is a bit too limiting for serious users. You can only create a couple of apps and you'll quickly hit a wall if you want to explore more advanced features. If you’re serious about launching something, you’ll likely have to fork out for a paid plan, which starts at about £30 per month. This isn’t a huge amount, but it can add up if you’re experimenting with multiple projects. Additionally, I found that the platform can be sluggish when handling larger datasets. If you’re planning to create something with lots of users or data, you might want to consider this before you commit.
When compared to alternatives like Bubble or Thunkable, Adalo does hold its ground, especially for pure beginners who want something straightforward. Bubble offers more customisation but at the cost of a steeper learning curve. Adalo is perfect for those who want to get something up and running quickly without diving deep into the technical side of things. In conclusion, if you’re a newbie wanting to launch your first app or a business looking for a quick MVP, Adalo is worth checking out. But if you’re an experienced developer, you might find it lacking in flexibility.
So, if you’re ready to turn your app idea into reality without the hassle of coding, Adalo is a viable choice. Just be prepared for its limitations and make sure it aligns with your app’s needs before diving in.
Getting started with Adalo
In this guide, you'll learn how to create your first mobile app using Adalo's no-code platform. By the end, you’ll be able to design a basic app and publish it on app stores.
Step 1: Sign up and set up
Step 2: Your first app
Step 3: Get better results
Pro tip
Use the "Clone" feature by right-clicking on components to quickly duplicate elements, saving time when designing your app layout.
Common mistake to avoid
Avoid skipping the database setup. Many beginners jump straight to design without creating collections, which can lead to missing functionality when trying to store or retrieve data later. Always set up your data structure first.
The Verdict
Adalo is a solid choice for anyone looking to create a mobile app without coding skills, particularly for startups and small businesses. However, those with more complex needs or a desire for deep customisation might want to look elsewhere. Overall, it’s a good entry point for aspiring app creators but be cautious of its limitations as you scale your projects.
Best For
- Startups needing a quick MVP to test their app ideas.
- Small businesses looking to develop customer engagement apps without hiring a developer.
- Freelancers wanting to offer app development services without coding skills.
- Educators creating interactive learning tools for students.
- Non-profits looking to build outreach and fundraising applications.
- Individuals wanting to explore app development for personal projects.
At a Glance
Adalo is a no-code app builder that allows users to create native mobile applications easily with a drag-and-drop interface. It integrates database functionality and AI features, making it ideal for startups and small businesses looking to launch apps quickly without any coding knowledge.
Strengths
- +The drag-and-drop interface is incredibly user-friendly, making it accessible even for complete novices who have no coding experience whatsoever.
- +Adalo’s database integration allows users to create dynamic, data-driven applications that can manage user input and display information effortlessly.
- +The ability to publish apps directly to the App Store and Google Play from within the platform eliminates a major pain point for new developers.
- +Pre-built components save time and effort, allowing users to focus on the design and functionality of their apps rather than getting bogged down in the details.
- +The freemium model allows users to try out the platform without financial commitment, making it a low-risk option for those exploring app development.
- +The platform offers AI-powered features that enhance user experience, making it easier to implement complex functionalities like authentication or data collection.
Limitations
- -The free tier is quite limited, which may lead to frustration for users who want to explore more advanced features without immediately committing to a paid plan.
- -Some users may find the customisation options too restrictive, especially if they have specific needs that require more complex coding.
- -There can be a learning curve associated with understanding how to effectively use the database features, which might deter some users from fully utilising the platform.
- -The platform's performance can be inconsistent at times, especially when handling larger datasets, which could lead to slow load times or glitches.
- -Adalo lacks advanced analytics and tracking features, which may be a drawback for businesses that need detailed insights into user behaviour and app performance.
Use Cases
- -Startups looking to test their app idea with a minimum viable product (MVP) without investing heavily in development.
- -Freelancers who want to build custom apps for clients but lack coding skills, enabling them to offer additional services.
- -Small businesses aiming to develop customer engagement applications, such as loyalty programs or feedback forms, quickly and cost-effectively.
- -Educators wanting to create simple educational apps for students, allowing them to engage with learning materials interactively.
- -Non-profits that need to develop apps for fundraising or outreach without the budget for a full development team.
- -Individuals who want to create personal projects, like a travel planning app or a recipe collection, without diving into coding.
