What is Softr? Beginner’s Guide (2025)

The way we build apps has transformed dramatically in recent years. Thanks to the rise of no-code platforms, anyone—from entrepreneurs to educators—can now design and launch digital tools without writing a single line of code. Whether it’s project management dashboards, client portals, or AI-powered web apps, the no-code ecosystem is expanding quickly.

One standout in this space is Softr, a powerful no code app builder that allows users to turn their data into functional applications. In this beginner’s guide, we’ll explore what Softr is, how it works, the types of apps you can build, and how pairing it with Baserow can give you even more flexibility.

What is Softr?

At its core, Softr is a no code platform designed to help you build web apps quickly. Instead of hiring a developer or learning to code, you can create professional-looking apps by dragging and dropping pre built blocks onto a canvas.

The platform works with external data sources such as Airtable, Google Sheets, or open-source databases like Baserow. This means that instead of worrying about complex backend systems, you can focus on creating an intuitive, user friendly interface that brings your idea to life.

From launching a client portal to building internal tools for a small team, Softr offers a wide range of use cases, making it a great entry point for non-technical creators.

How Does Softr Work?

Think of Softr as a visual editor for apps. You don’t need to code, but you still get to design exactly how your application will look and feel.

1. Start building quickly by choosing a template or blank canvas.
2. Use drag-and-drop blocks to assemble your layout—such as lists, forms, charts, and cards.
3. Connect live data from sources like Google Sheets or Baserow.
4. Publish your app, and it’s immediately available on desktop or mobile.

This seamless process ensures that your softr app stays connected to your data in real time. For example, if you add record updates in your backend, those changes instantly reflect in your published app.

Learn more about how to manage user access to Softr in Baserow.

Key Features and Benefits

Softr offers an impressive set of features that make it one of the most powerful no code platforms available today:

• App builder with pre built templates: Choose from ready-to-use layouts that save time and effort.
• Wide range of components: Add blocks like tables, calendars, forms, and galleries to fit your app’s needs.
• User friendly design: No design or coding background required.
• Mobile app support: Create apps that look great across devices.
• Automate workflows: Connect with automation platforms to handle repetitive tasks.
• Integration with data sources: Whether it’s Google Sheets or Baserow, your apps remain connected to structured data.

This combination of flexibility and simplicity makes it especially attractive for teams that need to move quickly without sacrificing functionality.

What Can You Build with Softr?

Because softr is a no code platform, it caters to a wide variety of use cases:

• Client portals: Service-based businesses can create portals where clients log in, view project timelines, and share files.
• Internal tool dashboards: Build an internal tool that helps teams manage projects, track progress, and collaborate effectively.
• Directories and marketplaces: Publish real-time listings powered by dynamic data.
• AI-powered apps: Prototype AI dashboards by integrating external APIs with your existing database.

For example, a design agency might use Softr to create a client portal where customers can track milestones. Behind the scenes, the agency could rely on Baserow to store structured data like project deliverables, dates, and feedback. Together, this frontend-backend duo ensures both usability and reliability.

Compared to alternatives like Bubble or Webflow, Softr keeps things simple. Bubble offers deep flexibility but has a steep learning curve, while Webflow focuses heavily on design. Softr strikes a middle ground—fast setup with a balance of functionality.

Softr and Baserow: A Powerful Combination

To truly understand the strengths of Softr, it’s important to look at how it works with backend platforms. Softr handles the frontend, creating the interface that your users see. But behind the scenes, you still need a backend to manage structured data, relationships, and permissions.

That’s where Baserow comes in. Acting as a cloud based database, Baserow allows you to create tables, define field type options (like text, phone number, or dates), and manage complex relationships. This makes it a perfect backend partner for your softr app.

• Frontend (Softr): User-facing interface, app builder, and visual design.
• Backend (Baserow): Data management, records, permissions, and logic.

By combining these tools, you can build apps that not only look professional but also scale to handle more advanced needs. And if you prefer an all-in-one platform, Baserow now includes an Application Builder, meaning you can build both backend and frontend without switching platforms. Check out what Baserow community has to say here.

Pros and Cons of Softr

Like any tool, Softr has both strengths and limitations.

Pros:

• Speed to market: Launch apps in hours, not weeks.
• Pre built templates and wide range of blocks.
• Real time updates from your chosen data source.
• Simple setup with no technical knowledge required.

Cons:

• Limited design freedom compared to platforms like Webflow.
• Basic logic only; advanced automation requires external tools.
• Heavy dependency on external data sources to function effectively.

Fortunately, integrating with Baserow solves many of these challenges. With advanced data handling, automation, and self-hosting options, Baserow ensures your app is built on a strong foundation.

How to Get Started with Softr and Baserow

If you’re ready to start building, here’s a simple step-by-step approach:

1. Create a Baserow account at baserow.io and create tables for your data—such as projects, clients, or tasks.
2. Set field type options like text, phone number, or date to structure your information correctly.
3. Add record entries and import data directly from spreadsheets for a quick setup.
4. Connect Softr to Baserow via API or integrations to pull your structured data into a visual interface.
5. Use the app builder to arrange pre built blocks into a client portal, project management dashboard, or web app.
6. Launch in real time and start gathering user feedback.

This approach keeps your frontend clean while ensuring your backend is powerful enough to scale.

Final Thoughts: Is Softr Right for You?

Softr is a powerful no code solution for anyone who wants to start building web apps quickly. From client portals to internal tools, it offers a user friendly way to bring your ideas to life. But while Softr excels at the frontend, pairing it with Baserow ensures your apps have a solid backend for managing data, automating workflows, and scaling long-term.

If you’re looking for more control—or even an all-in-one solution—Baserow’s Application Builder lets you design apps without leaving the platform.

👉 Ready to start? Sign up for free at Baserow and begin building smarter today.