Lowdefy vs Retool: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Lowdefy and Retool 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.
By Toolradar Team · Last updated February 28, 2026 · Methodology
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Lowdefy
Build AI-ready web applications with a declarative, schema-validated configuration.
Best for you if:
- • You need something completely free
- • Build web applications using a declarative, schema-validated YAML configuration.
- • Designed for AI generation, human review, and team maintainability.
Retool
Build internal tools fast
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.6/10 vs 0.0/10)
- • Low-code internal tools builder
- • Connect to any database or API
| At a Glance |  Lowdefy |  Retool |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free | Free + Paid |
Best For | Low-Code Backend | Low-Code Backend |
Rating | —/100 | 86/100 |
| Feature | Lowdefy | Retool |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | — | 86 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Low-Code BackendApp Builders | Low-Code BackendApp Builders |
How Lowdefy and Retool Compare
Lowdefy
Build AI-ready web applications with a declarative, schema-validated configuration.
Free
Retool
Build internal tools fast
Free tier available · 86/100 score
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Lowdefy is free. Retool is freemium.
Go with: Lowdefy
Want the highest-rated option?
Retool scores 86/100. Lowdefy is unrated.
Go with: Retool
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Retool
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Lowdefy is free. Retool is freemium. Go with Lowdefy if free matters most.
What's your use case?
Both are low-code backend tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
Not all tools have been rated yet.
Key Takeaways
Retool
- Higher score: 86/100 vs unrated
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Lowdefy
- Completely free
The Bottom Line
Retool (86/100) is our pick. That said, Lowdefy is free — hard to beat on price.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Lowdefy or Retool better?
Retool scores 86/100 in our evaluation. Lowdefy is free and Retool is freemium.
What are Lowdefy and Retool used for?
Lowdefy: Build AI-ready web applications with a declarative, schema-validated configuration.. Retool: Build internal tools fast.
What does Lowdefy cost vs Retool?
Lowdefy is completely free. Retool is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.