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Bubble and Xano are two standout platforms for database scaling in no-code apps, but they serve different needs. Bubble is ideal for startups needing fast MVP development with an all-in-one solution. Xano, on the other hand, focuses on backend scalability, offering advanced features for complex, high-traffic applications. Here’s a quick breakdown:
Key Differences:
For Australian businesses, consider local compliance needs, server proximity, and budget when choosing. Bubble works well for early-stage projects, while Xano is better for long-term growth or complex backends.
Quick Comparison:
| Feature | Bubble | Xano |
|---|---|---|
| Platform Type | Full-stack (frontend + backend) | Backend-as-a-Service |
| Database | Built-in PostgreSQL | PostgreSQL with indexing |
| Scalability | Limited by usage | Auto-scaling, no limits |
| API Support | Basic plugins, custom APIs | Advanced REST/GraphQL APIs |
| Pricing (AUD) | Starts ~$40/month | Starts ~$35/month |
| Best For | Startups, MVPs, small apps | Enterprises, complex apps |
Choose based on your app’s complexity, growth expectations, and compliance needs.
Bubble provides a comprehensive no-code platform that combines frontend design, backend logic, and database management into one seamless solution. Unlike traditional development methods that rely on multiple tools for different components, Bubble simplifies the process, enabling users to build and deploy web applications without writing a single line of code. To date, the platform has powered the creation of over 3.3 million apps, with users collectively securing $15 billion in funding. This success can be attributed to Bubble's user-friendly drag-and-drop interface, which transforms complex development tasks into straightforward actions, making it especially appealing to non-technical founders.
At the heart of Bubble's platform is its built-in database system, which uses PostgreSQL - a reliable, open-source database management system widely used in enterprise applications. Instead of relying on SQL queries, Bubble allows users to define data structures through point-and-click actions. Users can create data types, define fields, and establish relationships, while Bubble automatically enforces key constraints. Data binding is also simplified, with dropdown menus and expressions replacing the need for manually crafted queries.
That said, this simplicity has its drawbacks. Inefficient searches and weak privacy rules can sometimes lead to performance issues. Additionally, while Bubble's integrated full-stack approach is excellent for rapid development, its individual frontend and backend components may not perform as strongly when assessed separately. For instance, a music startup successfully scaled its Bubble-built app to 50,000 daily users by leveraging dedicated infrastructure and optimising app logic. These examples highlight Bubble's strengths in rapid prototyping and MVP development, though scaling for larger user bases requires careful planning.
Bubble is a standout choice for rapid prototyping and minimum viable product (MVP) development. For Australian startups, it offers a cost-effective way to test ideas quickly without heavy upfront investment in technical resources. The platform also shines in creating internal tools and automating business processes, enabling businesses to build custom dashboards, approval workflows, and data management systems - all without needing specialised developers.
Notable examples include My AskAI, which serves 40,000 users and generates $25,000 per month, and Byword, which automates content creation for 4,000 users. However, as applications grow in complexity, Bubble's scalability may become a concern, particularly for projects expecting a large volume of daily active users. This makes it ideal for startups and small businesses focused on quick development cycles, though its limitations should be considered for long-term growth.
Bubble's pricing is based on workflow units, meaning costs increase with app activity. The platform offers a free tier for development and testing, while paid plans start at approximately $40 AUD per month for basic applications. As app demands grow - requiring more workflow units, server capacity, and advanced features - monthly costs can climb into the hundreds of dollars. For Australian businesses, it's important to keep in mind that Bubble's pricing is set in US dollars, so currency fluctuations may affect budgeting. Efficient app design is key to keeping costs under control.
For enterprise customers needing dedicated infrastructure and enhanced security, costs can reach several thousand dollars per month. Bubble Co-Founder and Co-CEO Joshua Haas captures the platform's appeal perfectly:
"Being able to throw together a user interface in minutes without fumbling with CSS? Delightful. Being able to bang out some business logic without worrying about where your data lives or tripping over syntax? Amazing. Never having to write CRUD logic across multiple layers of the stack ever again? Paradise."
Xano takes a different path compared to platforms like Bubble, focusing entirely on scalable backend development. With its infrastructure powering over 20,000 applications and handling more than 300 million API calls every month, Xano has proven itself as a reliable solution for businesses that require high-performing databases. This commitment to backend excellence forms the core of Xano's technical strategy, as outlined below.
Xano's backbone is built on PostgreSQL, combining the reliability of relational databases with features often associated with NoSQL systems. This setup allows users to create complex business processes, APIs, and background tasks through an intuitive visual interface. It’s designed to be user-friendly for non-technical users while still delivering the power needed for enterprise-level applications. What makes Xano stand out further is its front-end agnostic design, enabling it to support multiple front-ends simultaneously.
One of Xano's standout features is its auto-scaling capability, addressing the common limitations of traditional no-code platforms. Each customer is assigned dedicated servers, and the platform’s flexible infrastructure adjusts automatically to meet demand, handling traffic surges without breaking a sweat. Its scaling features include unlimited records, dedicated resources, database indexing for faster queries, and advanced load balancing. The platform is designed to grow with your needs, efficiently managing increasing data volumes and user activity. With a single-tenant architecture, each customer's data and resources remain securely isolated.
For larger enterprises, Xano offers regional deployment options and full portability of applications, ensuring compliance and optimised performance for businesses operating in different regions.
Xano’s API-first design makes it a powerhouse for integrations. Its API builder allows users to craft complex business logic without writing code, while automatically documenting all endpoints in the Swagger (OpenAPI) format. The platform supports integration with virtually any service through API connectors or JavaScript SDKs and accommodates both REST and GraphQL endpoints. This makes it ideal for Australian businesses looking to connect with platforms like Salesforce, Twilio, or Slack without requiring extensive coding expertise.
Xano also offers webhooks for real-time automation, enabling workflows to be triggered by external events. Additional features like Redis caching for faster response times, rate limiting, and CRON jobs for scheduled tasks further enhance its capabilities. Tools like Addons, which enrich API responses with data from other database tables, and Lambda functions for custom server-side logic, make Xano highly flexible for diverse use cases.
Xano’s pricing model is designed to accommodate scaling applications without breaking the bank. A free tier is available for development and testing, while production plans start at around $35 AUD per month. Unlike pricing models that spike with usage, Xano offers predictable costs based on dedicated resources rather than individual actions - an appealing factor for Australian businesses managing high user traffic or complex database operations. Enterprise plans, which come with features like SOC 2 Type II, GDPR, and HIPAA compliance, begin at approximately $400 AUD per month.
For Australian companies, Xano offers server location options within Australia, ensuring low latency and compliance with local data regulations. This feature is particularly beneficial for organisations handling sensitive data or requiring fast response times across the country.
"Xano helps you achieve your goals faster, saves you time and money, enables you to rapidly make changes and sets you up for easy scalability."
- Amin Naserpour, Founder of Umicard
Additionally, Xano’s agency-focused plans include tools like client management dashboards and shared components, making it a cost-effective solution for Australian development agencies managing multiple clients.
When it comes to scaling databases, Bubble and Xano take very different approaches, each tailored to specific needs. Xano is built with scalability at its core, offering features like dedicated resources, indexing, no record limits, load balancing, and auto-scaling - capabilities that Bubble does not provide.
Bubble's built-in database, while effective for smaller projects, struggles under heavy loads, particularly with complex workflows and large data volumes. That said, Bubble maintains transparency with regular updates on uptime and system status, boasting an impressive 99.89% uptime over the last 90 days as of January 2025. Xano, on the other hand, hosts its databases on single-tenant, regional servers, which enhances performance in specific regions but lacks a global performance status page.
Xano also offers self-hosting options, a feature that makes it particularly appealing for businesses operating in highly regulated industries. This flexibility is especially relevant for Australian companies navigating strict compliance requirements. By supporting self-hosting, Xano enables legacy enterprises to meet stringent regulatory standards.
| Feature | Bubble | Xano |
|---|---|---|
| Database Architecture | Integrated full-stack solution | Backend-as-a-Service (with PostgreSQL) |
| Performance Under Load | Handles small to medium projects; slows with complexity | Designed for heavy workloads with fast API responses |
| API Handling | Plugin marketplace and custom API connections | API-first design with automatic RESTful API generation |
| Security Features | SSL, DDoS protection, SOC 2 Type II compliant | HIPAA, ISO 27001, data encryption, role-based access |
| Scalability Features | Scales with app optimisation | Dedicated resources, indexing, load balancing, auto-scaling |
| Pricing Scalability (AUD) | Starts at A$29/month | Starts at A$85/month (billed annually) |
| Record Limits | Usage-based limitations | Unlimited records |
| Server Options | Shared infrastructure | Single-tenant, regional deployment options |
| Transparency | 99.89% uptime with regular status updates | Limited visibility; no global status page |
Pricing is another key differentiator. Bubble is more budget-friendly, starting at A$29/month, making it an attractive option for startups and smaller businesses. Xano, starting at A$85/month (billed annually), is costlier but offers advanced features that cater to enterprise-level demands.
User feedback also highlights some clear distinctions. According to G2, Xano scores higher for ease of use (8.5) and setup (8.8), compared to Bubble's 7.7 and 8.4, respectively. These differences underline the platforms' strengths: Bubble shines in rapid prototyping and small-scale applications, while Xano's robust backend is better suited for large-scale, enterprise-level projects. For Australian businesses, these factors are crucial when weighing short-term needs against future growth potential.
Bubble's Strengths and Weaknesses
Bubble offers an all-in-one solution that integrates design, data, and logic, making it a great choice for quick prototyping and early-stage development. Its reliability and active community provide solid support and resources, which is particularly helpful for startups looking to hit the ground running .
That said, this comprehensive approach has its downsides. Since Bubble handles both front-end and back-end development, it can struggle with efficiency when dealing with more complex workflows or large datasets. Additionally, its reliance on its own front-end framework limits flexibility for businesses that might want to use other presentation layers.
Xano's Strengths and Challenges
Xano shines when it comes to enterprise-level back-end solutions. Features like dedicated resources, indexing, unlimited records, load balancing, and auto-scaling make it a powerful choice for handling complex projects. It’s also built with scalability in mind and adheres to critical industry standards, such as HIPAA and ISO 27001 compliance. However, these advanced features come with a higher price tag, which may not be feasible for early-stage startups. Plus, integrating Xano with other platforms can be a bit tricky, especially for those new to development .
The choice between Bubble and Xano often depends on the specific needs of your project.
Bubble for MVPs and Simple Projects
If you’re focused on speed and simplicity, Bubble is a fantastic choice. It’s perfect for non-technical founders aiming to launch minimum viable products (MVPs) or straightforward business applications quickly. This makes it especially appealing for Australian startups operating on tight budgets .
Xano for Advanced Backends and Scalability
For projects requiring complex filtering, heavy-duty background processing, or custom functions, Xano is the better fit. Take the example of the education app Lectec, which successfully scaled using Xano and launched in just two months. Co-founder Luke St. Amand praised the platform, saying:
"You cut down development time exponentially… This is the future of what everyone will be building on."
Major companies like Decathlon and Astrafuse have also reported significant benefits, including a 75% reduction in costs and a threefold increase in development speed.
A Hybrid Solution
For some projects, combining the strengths of both platforms can be the best route. Using Bubble for the front-end and Xano for the back-end allows teams to pair Bubble’s user-friendly design tools with Xano’s robust infrastructure. However, this approach adds complexity and might not be ideal for smaller projects or beginners.
When deciding between platforms, Australian businesses need to factor in local challenges like funding, compliance, and scalability.
Budget and Funding Limitations
Startups in Australia often face hurdles like limited funding opportunities and a smaller domestic market. In 2023, startups raised A$3.5 billion across 413 deals, which means every dollar matters. For early-stage companies, Bubble’s affordability is a clear advantage. On the other hand, Xano’s higher costs may be more justifiable for businesses with secure funding. Notably, impact startups - accounting for 41.5% of early-stage investments in 2024 - and climate-focused ventures, which received A$1 billion in funding, demonstrate the need for solutions that balance scalability and cost.
Compliance and Security Needs
For industries like healthcare, finance, or government, compliance is non-negotiable. Xano’s enterprise-level security features, such as HIPAA and ISO 27001 compliance, make it a strong contender for businesses in these regulated sectors. Its ability to operate on dedicated infrastructure is another key advantage.
Planning for Scalability
Scalability is a top priority for Australian startups, especially with global data production expected to reach 181 zettabytes by mid-2025. Xano’s auto-scaling and unlimited record capabilities align well with this need, while Bubble’s usage limits may require closer monitoring as businesses grow. A phased approach - starting with simpler solutions and gradually scaling up - can help manage costs and avoid performance bottlenecks. Early monitoring of end-to-end performance is also crucial for long-term success.
Based in Melbourne, Lightning Ventures is a no-code and AI-powered product studio launched in 2022. Known for delivering products five times faster than typical Bubble agencies, they maintain enterprise-level quality throughout their projects. Their workshops help startups clarify their product vision and select the most suitable no-code frameworks for scalable solutions.
Their services cover a broad spectrum, including custom app development, product design, and AI-driven workflow automation. Starting at AUD $20,000, with hourly rates from AUD $170, most projects fall between AUD $10,000 and AUD $49,999. This pricing makes them an appealing choice for early-stage Australian startups working with limited budgets.
Lightning Ventures also supports non-technical founders through educational initiatives. Marina Chelak from Melbourne University's Accelerator Program shared her experience:
"Lightning Products were awesome to work with. They ran an amazing webinar which helped our founders understand the power of NoCode and how they can quickly validate and get their ideas off the ground."
In addition to development services, Lightning Ventures assists startups in navigating scaling challenges. Whether it’s choosing between Bubble’s simplicity or Xano’s advanced scalability, they develop customised strategies tailored to each project. Rather than relying on a one-size-fits-all approach, they select the best no-code tech stack to meet specific needs. Their 15-point security checklist and Flusk monitoring tools ensure app reliability and compliance, particularly for Australian businesses in regulated sectors.
They also provide training to help teams manage and scale their products independently. This dedication to client success is reflected in their stellar reputation, boasting a 4.8 rating on Clutch and perfect 5.0 scores for quality, scheduling, cost, and referrals.
Frano Covic, Founder of GoldenPath AI, praised their work:
"They were able to bring the concepts we envisioned to life."
For startups needing guidance, Lightning Ventures offers free consultation calls through their website. These sessions help founders define their requirements and choose the right approach. Their deep understanding of the Australian startup landscape, including funding challenges and market constraints, ensures their solutions are both technically sound and commercially feasible.
With their technical know-how and local market expertise, Lightning Ventures is a trusted partner for Australian startups tackling no-code scaling challenges.
Deciding between Bubble and Xano ultimately comes down to your specific needs, scalability goals, and budget. Both platforms play unique roles in the no-code space, and the right choice depends on where your business is now and where you see it heading in the future. As we've covered, each platform shines in different scenarios.
Bubble is a go-to option for startups and small businesses aiming for speed, ease of use, and cost-effectiveness. Its all-in-one platform is perfect for quickly building an MVP, with impressive performance metrics like 99.89% uptime, proving its reliability for businesses that need to launch fast.
On the other hand, Xano is built for businesses that require enterprise-level scalability and performance. It's well-suited for high-traffic applications needing a strong backend, advanced data handling, and dedicated resources. This makes it an excellent choice for companies planning for rapid growth or managing complex data systems.
For Australian businesses, it’s important to weigh factors like subscription costs, scaling expenses, integrations, and ongoing support. Matching these considerations with your technical expertise and user base will help ensure your platform aligns with your long-term goals.
If you're navigating these decisions, Lightning Ventures can provide expert guidance tailored to Australian startups. From selecting the right platform to custom development, their expertise ensures your no-code solution grows with your business and supports your goals for sustainable success.
When deciding between Bubble and Xano for no-code app development, Australian startups need to think about factors like scalability, database performance, and backend flexibility.
Xano stands out for its scalability, offering features like auto-scaling and load balancing. This makes it a strong choice for apps designed to handle significant growth or manage complex data structures. On the other hand, Bubble provides an all-in-one platform with a user-friendly interface, making it great for quickly creating user-facing apps. However, it might struggle with large-scale or highly complex databases.
Your choice should depend on your app’s growth ambitions and technical requirements, ensuring the platform aligns with your business goals.
Xano's backend infrastructure is built to handle high-traffic applications with ease. It comes with features like dedicated resources, auto-scaling, and load balancing, making it a solid choice for apps that need to accommodate rapid growth or unpredictable demand.
On the other hand, Bubble offers a full-stack solution that's better suited for smaller projects or developers looking for an all-in-one platform. While Bubble excels at enabling quick app development and launch, its scalability doesn't quite match the backend-focused capabilities of Xano when dealing with heavy traffic.
Xano offers a strong set of compliance and security tools designed to meet the needs of industries with stringent regulations in Australia. Some of the standout features include:
On top of these, Xano adheres to major global standards like SOC 2, GDPR, and HIPAA, providing confidence in its data protection and compliance capabilities.
These measures make Xano a dependable choice for Australian businesses in sectors such as healthcare, finance, and government, where protecting sensitive information is a top priority.
