Low-code and no-code development approaches have become popular in developer communities. Developers use both approaches to build a program faster than traditional development methods like angular web development. Even beginners with no experience building code can learn how to use a no-code approach!
Both approaches are easier to learn and use than traditional development. But they also have key differences that you should know. Although similar, low-code and no-code are not the same.
What is low-code?
Low-code development is a great way for beginners to start their coding journey. But, low-code is also used by experienced developers to build applications.
Low-code uses programming languages. The main difference is that developers don’t need to write code from scratch. Instead, they can build software with various shortcuts embedded in blocks. These blocks are what developers drag and drop to build an application. There is still a bit of coding involved as developers need to arrange the blocks to form a sequence that will run a code. But the process is much faster than traditional development.
Aside from the speed it offers, low-code has other advantages that developers love. It can provide more resources, as everything you need to code is available on a low-code platform. It eliminates the high costs associated with developing applications from scratch. It also has security features and cross-platform support that are customizable and can lessen risk. And because low-code can build applications at a faster pace, it can also deploy these apps faster.
However, low-code does have its disadvantages. One of which is the quality of the application that you can create with low-code. Compared to traditional development, low-code produces lower quality software. This happens when developers are not well-versed in programming languages. Resulting in difficulties in navigating the customizable functions that low-code offers.
What is no-code?
No-code development platforms allow users to build applications without the need to write code. No-code uses a drag-and-drop system. But with no-code, you don’t need technical knowledge to use it! It is a popular development approach for people in the business field who don’t have any coding knowledge.
No-code platforms usually provide several templates that the user selects from. These templates come in different styles and formats, and colors are often customizable to suit the user’s needs.
There are many advantages of using no-code. Arguably the most important advantage is that anyone can use it, even without any programming experience! Like low-code, no-code can also build and launch applications at a faster rate than traditional development.
You can also create minimum viable products (MVP) with no-code. This allows businesses to test a product first before entering the production stage. Creating an MVP will attract more investors quicker than spending time developing a complete product. Other no-code advantages include its cost-effectiveness and flexibility. While some disadvantages are low customizability and possible security issues.
Differences Between Low-code and No-code
Here are four key differences between low-code and no-code.
1. Users
Low-code platforms are used by developers, regardless of their experience. All it takes is a basic knowledge of programming languages. So, both beginners and seasoned developers can make use of these platforms.
No-code platforms are for business owners, employees, and even freelance workers. These platforms provide a simple user experience that is easy to navigate. There is no coding involved at the end of the user. So, even those with zero programming knowledge can use no-code platforms.
2. Programming Knowledge
Low-code platforms require users to have some programming knowledge. They don’t need to be experts. Even beginner developers can use low-code. But technical knowledge is non-negotiable, which is why low-code targets developers.
Developers use low-code to build applications at a faster pace compared to traditional web development. They can still create complex code and programs on a low-code platform. Thus, coding knowledge is still needed to create applications.
On the other hand, no-code platforms don’t need any technical programming knowledge. These platforms allow users without the technical knowledge to build and launch applications. These apps usually have specific functions that can meet their business requirements.
3. Applications
Business owners use no-code for basic applications. These applications have minimal functionality and are usually aimed to address a single pain point. For example, organizing customer data or an excel-based report can be done using no-code.
Low-code platforms also create simple apps. But these platforms can also build more complex software solutions. These solutions can integrate more security features and APIs. Examples of low-code applications are data integration, business automation, and internal networking systems.
4. Systems
Low-code runs on an open system, while no-code runs on a closed system. An open system allows users to customize functions and features by revising the code. Sometimes, more code is needed to make the application function as intended. This allows low-code to build more complex apps. The downside is that with each update, you need to create a custom code for the application to work.
A closed system cannot be modified by the user. Once you have built a no-code app, there is only one version of it. This is why it is the perfect system for users without any technical knowledge. Users don’t have to worry about writing or modifying code.
The Bottom Line
Both low-code and no-code have their pros and cons. Both can speed up app development. Both are easy to use. The main differences between the two include the target users, applications, systems, and technical knowledge required. Depending on your experience and requirements, you can choose between low-code or no-code to create a simple application.
