Retool vs Backendless: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Retool and Backendless 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 8.0/10)
- • You need low-code backend features specifically
- • Low-code internal tools builder
- • Connect to any database or API
Backendless
Backend as a service with visual app development
Best for you if:
- • You need api tools features specifically
- • Backendless is a visual app development platform with backend-as-a-service capabilities
- • It provides database, user management, push notifications, and business logic without code
| At a Glance |  Retool |  Backendless |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | Low-Code Backend | API Tools |
Rating | 86/100 | 80/100 |
| Feature | Retool | Backendless |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 86 | 80 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Low-Code BackendApp Builders | API ToolsLow-Code Backend |
How Retool and Backendless Compare
Retool
Build internal tools fast
Free tier available · 86/100 score
Backendless
Backend as a service with visual app development
Free tier available · 80/100 score
Retool is a low-code backend tool. Backendless is in api tools.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are freemium. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Retool
Want the highest-rated option?
Retool: 86/100. Backendless: 80/100.
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?
Retool is a low-code backend tool. Backendless is in api tools. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Retool scores higher: 86/100 vs 80/100.
Key Takeaways
Retool
- Higher score: 86/100 vs 80
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Backendless
- Better fit for api tools
The Bottom Line
Retool (86/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Retool or Backendless better?
Retool scores 86/100 in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are Retool and Backendless used for?
Retool: Build internal tools fast. Backendless: Backend as a service with visual app development.
What does Retool cost vs Backendless?
Retool is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Backendless is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.