Lowcoder

Lowcoder is an open-source low-code app builder from Lowcoder Software LTD. It lets teams assemble internal tools, dashboards, customer portals, public forms and websites in a visual editor with minimal coding. It can be used through the hosted cloud or self-hosted, and the repository's latest listed release is 2.7.6 ("Equilibrium").

What It Is

Lowcoder is a visual application builder in which users connect data sources or APIs, build a responsive UI from 120+ components, and share the result with colleagues and customers. JavaScript is supported throughout for transforming data and controlling components. The project continues from the abandoned Openblocks project, per the README. It is licensed under AGPL-3.0, and the vendor states that the Enterprise Edition is also open source.

How the Build Workflow Works

Apps connect to PostgreSQL, MongoDB, MySQL, Redis, Elasticsearch, REST APIs, SMTP and other sources, with the homepage citing 60+ data sources. WebSocket connections support real-time updates. Reusable modules and a query library cut repeated work. Custom components and a plugin architecture extend the editor. Role-based access control, auto-saved restorable history and a theme editor support team use and branding.

Embedding and Distribution

Lowcoder says apps built with its SDK can be embedded natively in any HTML app, rather than in an iFrame. Video meeting components let builders create their own web-meeting tools. The vendor also describes publishing apps as native mobile apps through a partner company, and a browser-local database for partial offline use.

Deployment Options

A free community cloud is available for building a first app. Self-hosting is documented for Docker, Docker Compose, Helm charts, AWS, Azure, Google Cloud, Raspberry Pi and others, including use behind a firewall. The vendor says installation with Docker takes under five minutes. Vendor comparisons with Retool, Appsmith, Tooljet, Mendix and others are the vendor's own claims.