Evaluation of Appsmith in 2025: Key attributes, advantages, disadvantages, and options for comparison
AppSmith, an open-source, low-code platform, is revolutionising the way developers create web applications. By connecting various data sources, widgets, and queries, users can rapidly develop applications for internal business needs.
## Connecting a Database
Integrating a database is the first step in building an application with AppSmith. The platform supports multiple databases such as PostgreSQL, MongoDB, MySQL, and more, as well as APIs like REST and GraphQL for fetching or manipulating data from external sources.
To connect a database, users typically create a new query within AppSmith, specifying the database type, entering connection details, and defining the query to retrieve or manipulate data. Once connected, users can manage queries using AppSmith's built-in query editor, which supports JavaScript for custom logic and handling data transformations.
## Building an Application
AppSmith offers a user-friendly interface for building the application's UI. Users can select from a variety of widgets and components to create the desired layout and design. For more complex logic or customizations, users can utilize AppSmith's built-in JavaScript editor.
Once built, apps can be deployed in the cloud or on-premise, offering flexibility in how and where the application is hosted. AppSmith supports self-hosting, providing full control over configurations.
Security is a top priority for AppSmith. The platform offers features like role-based access control and secure authentication protocols to protect apps and their data. This includes 256-bit encryption for data security.
## Example Use Case
A user might build an admin dashboard that connects to a PostgreSQL database to display real-time sales data. They would connect to the database using AppSmith's query editor, create a UI using the drag-and-drop interface, customize the app with JavaScript, and deploy the app securely, either in the cloud or on-premise.
AppSmith's AI assistant suggests widgets, generates code, and provides guidance as users build their apps, making the development process even more efficient.
AppSmith requires some technical expertise, as understanding APIs, database schema essentials, and related technologies is beneficial. However, the platform's intuitive interface and AI-powered features make it accessible to developers of all levels.
Signing up for AppSmith requires connecting an existing data source, such as MongoDB, PostgreSQL, MySQL, ArrangoDB, Databricks, Google Sheets, Airtable, Salesforce, AWS Lambda, Hubspot, or Twilio. The platform offers a free tier, which includes UI tools, Google & GitHub SSO, on-prem hosting, and more.
AppMySite, another no-code app builder, plans to release a PWA app builder in the coming months, while AppMySite offers a white-label app builder for creating consumer-facing apps. AppSmith, on the other hand, is designed for internal business apps, not for public-facing apps like social media, booking, or real estate platforms.
With AppSmith, developers can streamline the process of connecting databases and building applications, offering a seamless, low-code development environment.
A lifestyle enthusiast could utilize the no-code app builder, AppSmith, to create a home-and-garden application that connects to a database for storing plant care data and significant gardening events. By defining queries and utilizing the built-in query editor, the user can manage data more effectively.
Moreover, data-and-cloud-computing professionals might use AppSmith to build a platform that integrates various technology solutions from external sources, such as REST APIs or Google Sheets, and create a data dashboard to monitor and visualize key performance metrics.
