Low code/no code SaaS guide for startups

Today, you don’t need to be a coder or have an extensive in-house team to bring your SaaS idea to life. 

In fact, embracing low-code no-code for SaaS design and development means that low-code and no-code platforms can have you, or the team you hire, design, build, and launch functional software products without ever writing lots of complex code.

Business-wise, going low-code/no-code not only cuts costs but also accelerates time-to-market, which means you can focus on validating your idea and scaling your startup. If it resonates, check out our low code/no code SaaS tutorial below to know more.

SaaS: no code vs code

When approaching the design and development of a SaaS product, you essentially face a no code vs code choice between building from scratch using traditional code or leveraging platforms that require little to no coding at all. In other words, comparing no code vs full code solutions helps determine whether you should adopt a fully code-based approach or opt for a more visual strategy. 

The traditional, custom-coded route provides you with full control over every feature and functionality, allowing for deep customization and scalability. However, it typically demands significant technical expertise, more time, and higher development costs. 

In contrast, no-code platforms enable you to design and launch applications using visual interfaces and pre-built components without writing any code. 

This approach dramatically accelerates the development process and makes it accessible to non-technical founders - even those looking for a dedicated no code SaaS builder option - though it might come with some limitations in terms of flexibility and unique customizations. 

Then there’s the middle ground called low-code development, offering a visual, drag-and-drop environment supplemented with the option to add custom code. 

Teams that have some coding know-how and require more advanced custom features will appreciate this one more while still benefiting from rapid development. This method is a key part of low code SaaS development.

What is no code SaaS?

In no-code SaaS environments, you create your entire application by assembling pre-built modules and components through an intuitive graphical interface. 

The platform automatically generates the underlying code, which means that even someone with little technical background can build, test, and deploy a fully functional SaaS product. 

The appeal of no-code SaaS lies in its ability to lower both the time and cost barriers typically associated with software development. Now, focusing on validating your ideas and meeting market needs can be done without suffocating in the traditional coding workflows.

This evolution in SaaS product development is also fueling innovative approaches in B2B SaaS design.

What is low code SaaS development?

Low-code SaaS development, on the other hand, uses visual tools similar to no-code platforms but allows developers to write code when necessary to refine features or implement custom logic. This approach is particularly useful when your SaaS product demands a degree of customization that no-code tools might not offer out of the box. 

By integrating hand-coded elements with visual development components, low-code platforms provide greater flexibility and can handle more complex scenarios while still speeding up the development process compared to fully custom-coded solutions.

To make it a bit easier to decide, here are a few key differences:

• User base. No-code is ideal for non-technical users, whereas low-code appeals to those who have some programming knowledge.
• Flexibility. Low-code tools offer deeper customization if your project needs extra control over functionality.
• Speed. Both approaches drastically reduce development time compared to traditional coding.

Top 5 no-code tools for SaaS startups in 2025

Because you can add custom code, low code platforms can be used to build more complex, scalable SaaS applications. They also allow for easier maintenance by keeping a majority of the codebase standardized while permitting targeted customization where necessary.

In 2025, no-code platforms have become essential tools for SaaS startups, especially for those venturing into no code for SaaS startups. Moreover, many entrepreneurs seek the best no code SaaS builder options to streamline their launch processes. Here’s an overview of five leading no code SaaS tools: Bubble, Webflow, Retool, Glide, and Softr.

Bubble for backend-heavy apps

Bubble is used for building pretty-much fully functional web applications. It gives you a visual editor to design interfaces, set up databases, and define workflows without writing code. 

For example, if you’re looking for a no code SaaS builder that can handle backend complexities, Bubble is a strong contender. 

While it does provide extensive customization, keep in mind that there may be a learning curve for those unfamiliar with application development concepts.

Key features:

• Drag-and-drop interface for UI design
• Customizable workflows for complex logic
• Responsive design capabilities
• Built-in database management
• Extensive plugin ecosystem for added functionality

Who is it for: 

Entrepreneurs and startups that want to develop scalable web applications with intricate functionalities.

Webflow for marketing sites + simple web apps

Next, Webflow, which is focused on web design and development and combines visual design tools with CMS features. Our Merge team, for example, uses it quite often to create responsive, pixel-perfect websites with precision (it’s excellent for those who already have a basic understanding of web design principles).

Key features:

• Intuitive drag-and-drop designer
• CMS for dynamic content management
• Hosting and SSL included
• E-commerce functionalities
• Interactions and animations without code

Who is it for: 

Designers and startups seeking to build visually appealing, responsive websites with integrated CMS.

Retool for internal/admin dashboards

Retool is for building internal tools. It lets you assemble dashboards, admin panels, and other internal applications by connecting to various data sources. However, to maximize its potential, you may need some familiarity with databases and APIs.

Key features:

• Pre-built components like tables, forms, and charts
• Integration with databases and APIs
• Customizable with JavaScript for added flexibility
• User permissions and access controls
• Real-time data handling

Who is it for: 

Companies that need to quickly develop internal tools and streamline operations.

Glide for mobile apps from spreadsheets

Glide will help create mobile applications directly from Google Sheets, which makes app development accessible to non-developers. Pick it to quickly transform data into interactive mobile apps. 

Since it is best suited for apps with straightforward functionalities, it may not be ideal for complex application requirements.

Key features:

• Transforms spreadsheets into mobile apps
• Customizable layouts and templates
• Real-time data synchronization
• User authentication and roles
• Supports integrations with various services

Who is it for: 

Individuals and businesses looking to create simple mobile applications without extensive development resources.

Softr for client portals with Airtable

Powered by Airtable or Google Sheets, Softr is useful for building web applications and client portals, having lots of templates and customization options to accelerate development.

Key features:

• Pre-built templates for various use cases
• Integration with Airtable and Google Sheets
• User authentication and membership features
• Custom domains and SEO optimization
• Responsive design for all devices

Who is it for: 

Startups and small businesses that want efficiency when creating client portals, directories, or marketplaces.

Low code/no code for SaaS startups: how to approach

So, if you are an early-stage startup and/or have or need an MVP, then for validating an idea quickly or when technical resources are limited, starting with no-code or low-code platforms is actually ideal. 

These approaches not only support no code for SaaS startups but also empower founders who are new to low code SaaS development. Find a good partner and let’s go!

When in growth or when you require complexity, however, which means your SaaS product scales and requires more customized features or performance optimizations, you might consider transitioning to or integrating traditional coding techniques alongside no code/low code tools. 

Or delegate it to a team that knows how to maximize its potential for low-code no-code for SaaS design better and chime in with traditional techniques when needed.