Softr
About SoftrSoftr is an easy-to-use tool that lets you build professional websites and apps by stacking simple blocks like Legos. It connects directly to your spreadsheets, turning your data into a working portal or dashboard without needing to write any code.
What is Softr?
Softr is a no-code app builder that turns your data, stored in tools like Airtable or Google Sheets, into professional web applications. Instead of writing code, you assemble your app using pre-built “blocks” like login screens, searchable lists, and forms.
It is primarily used to build client portals, internal tools, and membership sites where different users need private access to specific information. Essentially, it provides a beautiful, functional front-end for your spreadsheets.
Key Features of Softr
- Block-Based Visual Builder: Build apps by stacking over 100+ pre-built functional blocks (headers, lists, forms, charts) without pixel-pushing.
- Granular User Permissions: Control exactly what different users can see or edit based on their “role” (e.g., a client sees their invoices, while an admin sees everyone’s).
- Deep Data Integrations: Seamlessly syncs with Airtable, Google Sheets, HubSpot, SmartSuite, and SQL databases.
- One-Click Publishing: Launch your app to a custom domain with SSL security in seconds.
- PWA Support: Convert your web app into a Progressive Web App that users can “install” on their mobile home screens.
- AI App Generator: Describe your app idea in plain English, and Softr’s AI will generate the initial structure and data schema for you.
Who Can Use Softr?
- SMBs & Operations Managers: To build internal tools like CRMs, inventory trackers, and employee intranets.
- Agencies & Freelancers: To create professional client portals where customers can upload files and track project progress.
- Startup Founders: To launch MVPs (Minimum Viable Products) like marketplaces or job boards quickly and cheaply.
- Community Leaders: To build membership sites with gated content and paid subscriptions.
Why is it Better Than Its Competitors?
- Speed to Market: While Bubble offers more power, its learning curve is steep; Softr allows you to go from “idea” to “live app” in hours rather than weeks.
- Design Out-of-the-Box: Unlike Glide, which is very mobile-focused, Softr apps look professional and “native” on desktop browsers by default.
- Security: Softr handles logic on the server side, making it more secure for sensitive data compared to simpler builders that load all data into the browser.
- No Pixel-Pushing Fatigue: By using blocks, you can’t “break” the design, ensuring a consistent UI/UX without needing a design degree.
English
Softr is a premier no-code application builder designed to democratize software development by turning data into functional, beautiful web applications. It serves as the interface layer for your business data, allowing users to build complex systems like partner portals, internal dashboards, and community hubs without writing a single line of code. By focusing on a block-based architecture, Softr eliminates the complexity of traditional web development, offering a what-you-see-is-get (WYSIWYG) experience that is both powerful enough for enterprise use and simple enough for solo entrepreneurs.
2019
Berlin, Germany
Private
Founded in 2020 and headquartered in Berlin, Softr (Softr Platforms GmbH) has quickly become a leader in the no-code movement, now trusted by over 1 million teams worldwide. The company is committed to empowering citizen developers, non-technical professionals who want to solve business problems with custom software. With a focus on community-driven growth and high-standard security (SOC2 and GDPR compliance), Softr provides a stable, scalable ecosystem backed by top-tier venture capital and a robust global network of certified experts.
Basic
$59
MonthlyProfessional
$167
MonthlyBusiness
$323
MonthlyEnterprise
Custom
Do I need to know how to code to use Softr?
No. Softr is 100% no-code. However, if you do know HTML/CSS or JavaScript, you can use “Custom Code” blocks to extend functionality.
Can I build a mobile app for the Apple App Store?
No. Softr builds PWAs (Progressive Web Apps) which look and feel like mobile apps but are accessed via a browser, not downloaded from the App Store.
What happens if I exceed my record limit?
Softr will typically notify you to upgrade your plan. Your app won’t immediately break, but you won’t be able to sync new data until the limit is addressed.
Is my data safe with Softr?
Yes. Softr is SOC2 Type 2 compliant and GDPR-ready. They use server-side permissions, meaning users only “see” the data they are authorized to see.
Can I take payments through my Softr app?
Yes. Softr has a native Stripe integration that allows you to sell subscriptions, one-time products, or gated content access.
Does Softr provide its own database?
Yes, Softr now offers its own internal Softr Data source, though most users still prefer connecting to Airtable or Google Sheets for more flexibility.
Softr has effectively found the Goldilocks zone of no-code. It sits perfectly between the simplicity of a website builder and the complexity of a full-scale development platform. For 90% of business use cases, portals, CRMs, and internal tools it are the most efficient path to value.
Pros
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Fastest build-to-launch time in the industry for data-driven apps.
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Excellent “per-user” permission logic that is easy to configure.
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Polished, professional-looking UI components right out of the box.
Cons
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Limited pixel-perfect design flexibility compared to platforms like Webflow or Bubble.
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Native mobile app store publishing (IPA/APK) is currently not supported.
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Complex logic (multi-step workflows) often requires 3rd party tools like Zapier or Make.
Final Verdict
If you need a professional, secure business application and you have your data ready in a spreadsheet, Softr is the smartest choice on the market. It trades extreme design customization for incredible speed and reliability.
CA Tushar Makkar
