Bubble vs Material UI: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Bubble and Material UI comes down to understanding what each tool does best. This comparison breaks down the key differences so you can make an informed decision based on your specific needs, not marketing claims.
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Bubble
Build web apps visually without writing code
Best for you if:
- • You need app builders features specifically
- • No-code platform for building full web applications
- • Visual programming with database, workflows, and UI design
Material UI
The React component library to build beautiful and powerful UIs faster.
Best for you if:
- • You need ui/ux design features specifically
- • Comprehensive React UI component library for faster development.
- • Offers both free foundational components (Material UI) and advanced paid components (MUI X).
| At a Glance |  Bubble |  Material UI |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | App Builders | UI/UX Design |
Rating | 88/100 | 88/100 |
| Feature | Bubble | Material UI |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 88 | 88 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | App BuildersLow-Code Backend | UI/UX DesignDesign Systems |
Understanding the Differences
Both Bubble and Material UI solve similar problems, but they approach them differently.Bubble positions itself as "build web apps visually without writing code" while Material UIfocuses on "the react component library to build beautiful and powerful uis faster.". These differences matter depending on what you're trying to accomplish.
When to Choose Bubble
Bubble makes sense if you're looking for a budget-friendly option with a free tier solution.
When to Choose Material UI
Material UI is worth considering if you need a flexible option with both free and paid tiers tool.
Who Should Use What?
Bootstrapped or small team?
When every dollar counts, Bubble lets you get started without pulling out your credit card.
We'd pick: Bubble
Growing fast?
Your team doubled last quarter and you need tools that won't break when you add 50 more people. Material UI is built for teams that are leveling up.
We'd pick: Material UI
Enterprise with complex needs?
You need SSO, compliance certifications, and a support team that picks up the phone. Both have enterprise tiers—compare their security features.
We'd pick: Bubble
Still not sure? Answer these 3 questions
How much can you spend?
Tight budget? Start free with Bubble, upgrade when you're ready.
Do you care what other users think?
Both have similar review counts. Read a few before you commit.
Expert opinion or crowd wisdom?
Our team rated Bubble higher (88/100). But the community has upvoted Material UI more (0 votes). Pick your source of truth.
Key Takeaways
What Bubble Does Better
- Our recommendation for most use cases
Consider Material UI If
- You want to start free and scale later
- Its specific features better match your workflow
- You prefer its interface or design approach
The Bottom Line
If we had to pick one, we'd go with Bubble (88/100). But the honest answer is that "better" depends on your situation. Bubble scores higher in our analysis, but Material UI might be the right choice if its specific strengths align with what you need most. Take advantage of free trials to test both before committing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Bubble or Material UI better?
Based on our analysis, Bubble scores higher with 88/100. Bubble isfreemium while Material UI is freemium. The best choice depends on your specific needs and budget. We recommend testing both with free trials if available.
Can I switch from Bubble to Material UI easily?
Migration difficulty varies. Check if both tools support data export/import in compatible formats. Some tools offer migration assistance or have integration partners who can help with the transition.
Do Bubble and Material UI offer free trials?
Most software in this category offers free trials or free tiers. Bubble is freemium with a free tier.Material UI is freemium with a free tier. Visit their websites for current trial offers.