Windmill vs Retool: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between Windmill 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.
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Windmill
Open-source developer platform for scripts
Best for you if:
- • You need developer tools features specifically
- • Windmill is an open-source developer platform for internal tools
- • It runs scripts and workflows with a visual builder
Retool
Build internal tools, apps, and AI with drag-and-drop
Best for you if:
- • You need app builders features specifically
- • Low-code internal tools builder
- • Connect to any database or API
| At a Glance |  Windmill |  Retool |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | Free tier + paid plansFree tier available | $9/user/month/moTeam |
Best For | Developer Tools | App Builders |
Rating | - | - |
Choose Windmill or Retool?
Choose Windmill if
Open-source developer platform for scripts
- Open source workflow engine
- Scripts and flows
- Self-hostable
- Your work is developer tools-shaped, not app builders-shaped
Choose Retool if
Build internal tools, apps, and AI with drag-and-drop
- Fast development
- Many integrations
- Powerful for internal tools
- Your work is app builders-shaped, not developer tools-shaped
| Feature | Windmill | Retool |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| User Rating | ★4.9/5 12 reviews | ★4.6/5 382 reviews |
| Categories | Developer ToolsApp Builders | App BuildersInternal Tools |
In-Depth Analysis
Windmill
Open-source developer platform for scripts
Strengths
- +Open source workflow engine
- +Scripts and flows
- +Self-hostable
- +Good UI
- +Active development
Weaknesses
- -Learning curve
- -Documentation improving
- -Smaller community
- -Enterprise features limited
- -Setup complexity
Key features
Retool
Build internal tools, apps, and AI with drag-and-drop
Strengths
- +Fast development
- +Many integrations
- +Powerful for internal tools
Weaknesses
- -Internal tools only
- -Can get expensive
Key features
Pricing: Windmill vs Retool
| Plan | Windmill | Retool |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | N/A | $0 Free |
| Tier 2 | N/A | $9/user/month Team |
| Tier 3 | N/A | $46/user/month Business |
| Tier 4 | N/A | Custom Enterprise |
Pricing verified from each vendor's public pricing page. Compare in detail on Windmill pricing and Retool pricing.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are freemium. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Windmill
Want the highest-rated option?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Windmill
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?
Windmill is a developer tools tool. Retool is in app builders. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Key Takeaways
Retool
- Larger review base (382 reviews)
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Windmill
- Higher user rating: 4.9/5 vs 4.6/5
- Better fit for developer tools
The Bottom Line
Retool is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Windmill or Retool better?
Retool is rated in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are Windmill and Retool used for?
Windmill: Open-source developer platform for scripts. Retool: Build internal tools, apps, and AI with drag-and-drop.
What does Windmill cost vs Retool?
Windmill is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Retool is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.