Free, open-source alternatives to Retool
Build internal tools on top of your data. 5 apps you can run yourself instead of Retool, sorted by how well they replace it. Each one is open source, so your data stays with you.
AppsmithBest match
Build admin panels, CRUD apps and workflows. Build everything you need, 10x faster.
ToolJet
Low-code framework to build & deploy internal tools with minimal engineering effort (alternative to Retool and Mendix).
Budibase
Build and automate internal tools, admin panels, dashboards, CRUD apps, and more, in minutes (alternative to Outsystems, Retool, Mendix, Appian).
Saltcorn
No-code database application builder for web and mobile applications. One platform for user interface, data backend, durable workflows, email, PDF generation, and AI applications.
Lowdefy
Build internal tools, BI dashboards, admin panels, CRUD apps and workflows in minutes using YAML / JSON.
Side by side
Why replace Retool?
Retool works, but your data lives in someone else's account, the price can change at any time, and features can disappear. An open-source app you run yourself is yours: you choose where it runs, who can see the data, and when to update.
Questions
What is the best free alternative to Retool?
Appsmith is the closest open-source replacement for Retool in our list. ToolJet and Budibase are worth a look too, depending on what you need.
Can I self-host an alternative to Retool?
Yes. All 5 apps on this page are open source and can run on your own server, usually with Docker, or on a managed host that installs them for you.