Retool vs Airplane: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Retool and Airplane 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:
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
Airplane
Internal tools and workflows platform
Best for you if:
- • Build internal tools and workflows without boilerplate
- • Connect to any database, API, or codebase
| At a Glance |  Retool |  Airplane |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | Low-Code Backend | Low-Code Backend |
Rating | 86/100 | —/100 |
| Feature | Retool | Airplane |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | 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 BackendWorkflow Automation |
How Retool and Airplane Compare
Retool
Build internal tools fast
Free tier available · 86/100 score
Airplane
Internal tools and workflows platform
Free tier available
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are freemium. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Retool
Want the highest-rated option?
Retool scores 86/100. Airplane 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?
Both are freemium. Pricing won't help you decide here.
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
Airplane
The Bottom Line
Retool (86/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Retool or Airplane better?
Retool scores 86/100 in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are Retool and Airplane used for?
Retool: Build internal tools fast. Airplane: Internal tools and workflows platform.
What does Retool cost vs Airplane?
Retool is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Airplane is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.