The Hidden Costs Of No-Code Platforms: A Pricing Comparison

No-code solutions have become increasingly popular in recent years, as more organisations across multiple sectors recognise the value of enabling advanced functionality without the need for traditional coding.  

These solutions empower users to build and customise applications, automate workflows, and streamline processes with ease. However, when adopting such sophisticated tools, it’s crucial to be aware of the hidden costs associated with certain no-code platforms to avoid unexpected expenses.

In this blog, we'll be comparing our price model to other vendors in the market.

What is PIES Studio's Pricing Model?

PIES Studio was established to tackle the shortcomings of conventional app development.

With us, you can create precisely what you require, oversee all operations from a single interface, and scale effortlessly as their needs expand, while safeguarding your IP and within a regulated environment.

We aim to offer an alternative to the "Tech Giants" model that often locks users into their platform, with us, you have the option to leave and retain your IP at any time.

We approach pricing for our AI enabled software development platform with the mantra of “simple, predictable, and scalable”, dividing the pricing packages between three plans, depending on the scale of your business needs:

PIES Studio Pricing Summary

PIES Studio follows a freemium pricing model, where PIES Creators is free forever, allowing users to access core features at no cost. This approach lowers the barrier to entry, encouraging widespread adoption.

For additional features, advanced capabilities, or enterprise solutions, PIES Studio may offer paid upgrades or premium plans, providing enhanced functionality tailored to business needs. This model ensures accessibility while offering scalability for users who require more sophisticated tools.

What is Bubble's Pricing Model?

Bubble.io offers a range of pricing plans designed to accommodate various user needs, from individual developers to large enterprises:

Bubble's Pricing Considerations:

Workload Units (WU): Bubble uses Workload Units to measure the computational resources your application consumes. Each plan includes a set number of WUs. If your application exceeds the allotted WUs, additional charges may apply. It's essential to monitor your app's workload to manage costs effectively.

Storage and Bandwidth: Each plan comes with a specified amount of storage and bandwidth. If your application requires more than the included resources, you can purchase additional storage at $3 per month for 100 GB.

With Bubble, you are locked in to that platform for life, if you wish to end your subscription with them you will lose whatever you built. 

What is Unqork's Pricing Model?

Unqork operates on a customised pricing model tailored to the specific needs and requirements of each organisation. 

Subscription Terms: Contracts typically involve an initial term with agreed-upon fees. Post this period, fees may be subject to adjustments, with provisions allowing for increases up to a certain percentage, ensuring transparency and predictability in long-term engagements.

Unqorks Pricing Considerations:

Since Unqork follows a custom enterprise pricing model, there is potential for hidden or unexpected costs depending on the contract terms and the scope of services required. Here are some areas where hidden fees could arise:

1. Platform Usage & Scaling Costs

• Unqork's pricing is likely based on factors like number of users, workflows, and integrations. If an organisation's usage grows beyond initial projections, additional charges may apply.
• Scaling up might require more API calls, storage, or processing power, which could result in increased costs.

2. Implementation & Professional Services

• Large enterprises often require custom onboarding, implementation support, and training, which may not be included in the base pricing.
• Organisations may need to pay for Unqork-certified engineers or consulting services to optimise their application.

3. Third-Party Integrations & API Usage

• Unqork integrates with various third-party tools (e.g., AWS, Azure, databases, and CRM systems).
• Some of these external integrations may have their own associated costs, especially if additional API calls or licensing fees are involved.

4. Customisation & Feature Enhancements

• Unqork offers a no-code environment, but custom features, advanced security configurations, or industry-specific solutions may require extra fees.
• For organisations needing on-premise deployment or enhanced data compliance, costs could rise.

5. Contract Renewal & Price Adjustments

• Some enterprise contracts include price adjustments after the initial term, meaning fees could increase annually based on usage, inflation, or feature expansions.
• Contracts may also have minimum commitment requirements, which could lead to penalties if an organisation reduces its usage before the contract ends.

How to Avoid Hidden Costs?

• Clarify all costs upfront – request detailed pricing breakdowns for scaling, integrations, and support services.
• Negotiate contract terms – ensure transparency in renewal fees, overage charges, and add-on costs.
• Monitor usage closely – track API calls, user count, and feature usage to avoid unexpected overages.

Vendor Lock-in

Most No-Code solutions such as Unqork and Bubble are heavily reliant on the vendor’s existing software stack or ecosystem,  and there is a cost associated with lack of flexibility to adjust to evolving business needs as they relate to your data platforms. With PIES Studio, we give you the option to walk away any time, with your own IP.