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An Overview of No-Code Tools for Web3by@pavel_ershov
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An Overview of No-Code Tools for Web3

by Pavel ErshovAugust 22nd, 2022
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Got a web3 startup to start, a crypto product to build, in need of a no-code platform to do that because the programming learning curve is hard? Fret not, it’s all easy to solve. This article is a short list of recommended no-code platforms (we built one ourselves, bias aside) capable of building a web3 product from scratch. Take a look at Bildr, Moralis, Directual, and ETH build—and find the right tool for the job.

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If you’ve ever tried building a web3 app from scratch, you’ve probably noticed it’s a confusing pain in the behind. You’ve got web interfaces, databases, wallet transactions, smart contract deployment, integrations to tie it all together, etc. Truly a headache to wrangle, unless you already know how to do all that, or—if you have no-code web3 tools perfect for the job.

Besides, you probably want to get it all done fast, try your idea to see if it works. Can’t spend two years developing a product that turns out to be a dud, right?

That’s why I’ve got a handy little list of no-code platforms for all things crypto, blockchain, and web3 for you to try, including a shameless plug with our own solution.

Well then, let’s get you started.

What can you build with a no-code Web3 platform?

Web3 is rapidly evolving, and so are the frameworks supporting it. Technically, what kind of a dApp you can build depends on what tools you use, and how big of a dreamer you are. For instance:

Marketplaces are a fantastic thing to try. No more intermediaries—just the beauty of a p2p network. Web3 marketplaces could be so much more as opposed to what we’re used to, not even mentioning how many different payment methods are available (and secure!). It could be any kind of market place, with crypto payments and authorization via the wallet of choice. 

NFT creation & trading platforms are another thing to build, which is all the rage now. Unique digital goods are already transforming the landscape of ownership, and their use is by far not limited to art. The caveat is that just like all unique goods, you can find NFTs on a variety of platforms, all different and unique. Perhaps you will be the one to tie them all together in one giant go-to NFT marketplace?

DAO portals are the next step in true, democratic communities. As of now, a lot of DAOs are made with the help of the Ethereum blockchain and utilize its tokens to vote. The application for DAOs is limitless: from the small community decision-making process to the governance of entire countries (one day, but already in the works!).

OK, I’m motivated enough, what do I need?

A shortlist of Web3 no-code platforms

Just for perspective: there are thousands of no-code tools. Hundreds of Web3 tools. Thousands more integration tools that tie it all together. But very few can do everything at the same time, and even then, no tool is perfect.

I would advise you to carefully study each one and see how well it will work with your plan. Don’t be afraid to use multiple no-code tools simultaneously—they can complement each other!

Bildr

Bildr is a versatile full-stack platform for no-code software development now steering towards Web3 dApp creation. When it comes to Web3, it is often used for NFT marketplace creation. They’ve got quite the range of capabilities, all in active development.

They’ve also chosen an interesting approach to internal economics with the help of Web3 as well. In short, you can mint PFPs - NFT profile pictures - and spend them to gain access to one of the platform’s pricing tiers called Studio Pass, where you can earn the platform’s own coins and use them however you wish later. You can sell what you have accrued to the next person in line, so to speak, recouping your time with the platform. Neat!

Moralis

Moralis is a relatively young platform extremely centered on Web3 development, maybe even one with the most focus on dApps creation. I must say, it’s impressive. There’s plenty of social proof to support what the platform excels at: crypto, blockchain, and smart contracts, along with extensive documentation and a friendly community. 

The only few downsides to it (if it matters to you) are the lack of pre-made scenarios and the front-end builder, at least for now.

Directual

Hey, that’s us! I’ll honestly try to be as objective as possible. Directual started as a regular no-code platform, and for the last couple of years, we’ve been working hard at making Web3 no-code development a piece of cake. The strong suit of Directual is its back-end, front-end, and scalability—our customers use it from the MVP stage and up to the full-fledged product, all the way through.

Every month, there are new integrations, capabilities, and extensions to use. Directual will soon have its own DAO (for all the product fans) and it already has its own coin that can be used to cover the services. It’s a really good choice if you want to build a sturdy Web3 app.

ETH Build

For all the rookies out there too scared to test the waters on a no-code platform, there is something simpler! ETH Build is a lightweight solution designed for all who want to learn how Ethereum works and what you can do with it.

Naturally, it’s unsuitable for scaling, or anything remotely complete in terms of product development, but it could be a good start if you’re taking your first steps towards Web3 and mostly want to learn before committing to a tougher challenge.

Afterword

At the end of the day, if you’re looking to start your no-code Web3 journey, the best time is right now. Don’t allow yourself to get stuck in analysis paralysis, it’s not worth it. Try the tools you like (they are all free to start with), and see whichever you like most (and whichever helps most!)

Never forget one simple truth about no-code tools in general: they are often big buds and easily integrate with one another. It’s like separate lego sets: you can hook them up, and all the sockets are standardized. 

Try your journey, and see where it takes you.

Sincerely, Captain of Rocket-ship Directual

Pavel