Airtable
Cloud collaboration platform combining the flexibility of a spreadsheet with database power
NocoBase
Extensible no‑code platform for rapid, self‑hosted app creation
NocoBase delivers a self‑hosted, extensible no‑code/low‑code platform that separates data models from UI, offers WYSIWYG configuration, and supports plugin‑based functionality for rapid business app development.
Overview
Overview
NocoBase is an extensibility‑first platform that lets teams build internal tools and enterprise applications without writing extensive code. By decoupling data structures from the user interface, it provides the simplicity of no‑code editors while retaining the flexibility of native development.
Capabilities & Deployment
The system offers a WYSIWYG configuration experience, allowing administrators to shape forms, tables, and workflows directly in the UI. All functionality is delivered through a plugin architecture, so new features can be added as easily as installing a mobile app. Deployment options include a Docker image for quick, code‑free setup, a CLI for low‑code projects, and a source‑code route for contributors who need full control.
Who Benefits
Whether you are a product team needing a custom CRM, an operations group building workflow automation, or a developer extending the platform with bespoke plugins, NocoBase provides a scalable, self‑hosted foundation that can be tailored to complex business requirements.
Highlights
Data model separation from UI for flexible schema design
WYSIWYG interface configuration for instant UI changes
Plugin architecture enables modular feature extensions
Multiple deployment methods, including one‑click Docker setup
Pros
- Fast initial deployment via Docker
- Highly extensible through plugins
- Self‑hosted control over data and security
- Flexible data modeling beyond simple tables
Considerations
- Advanced customizations require TypeScript/Node knowledge
- Plugin ecosystem is still growing
- Initial learning curve for data‑model concepts
- Documentation may be fragmented across resources
Managed products teams compare with
When teams consider NocoBase, these hosted platforms usually appear on the same shortlist.
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Fit guide
Great for
- Teams building internal dashboards or CRMs
- Enterprises needing a self‑hosted no‑code solution
- Developers who want to create custom plugins
- Organizations with strict data‑privacy requirements
Not ideal when
- Users seeking a fully managed SaaS no‑code service
- Non‑technical staff without any development background
- Projects requiring out‑of‑the‑box mobile app generation
- Teams that rely on extensive pre‑built template libraries
How teams use it
Custom CRM for sales teams
A tailored customer management system with flexible fields, automated workflows, and role‑based access, deployed in minutes.
Project management dashboard
Real‑time task tracking, Gantt charts, and reporting built on a shared data model without writing backend code.
Workflow automation for HR onboarding
Automated approval steps, document collection, and status dashboards that adapt to changing policies.
Data collection portal for field agents
A mobile‑friendly form system that stores data centrally and integrates with existing analytics pipelines.
Tech snapshot
TypeScript99%
JavaScript1%
Smarty1%
Shell1%
Dockerfile1%
Less1%
Frequently asked questions
How does NocoBase differ from Airtable?
NocoBase separates data schemas from UI components, allowing multiple custom views and plugin extensions, whereas Airtable ties data definition directly to its tables.
What is the recommended installation method?
The Docker image is recommended for most users because it requires no code and simplifies upgrades.
Can I develop my own plugins?
Yes, plugins are built with TypeScript/JavaScript and can be installed like apps to extend core functionality.
Is the platform self‑hosted?
All deployment options are self‑hosted, giving you full control over data, security, and scaling.
What languages are supported for extensions?
Plugins are written in TypeScript or JavaScript, leveraging the platform’s Node.js runtime.
Project at a glance
Active- Stars
- 21,279
- Watchers
- 21,279
- Forks
- 2,398
Repo age5 years old
Last commit4 hours ago
Self-hostingSupported
Primary languageTypeScript
Last synced 4 hours ago