5 Tips for Building with Bubble

Bubble has emerged as a game-changer in the world of app development, offering a no-code platform that allows entrepreneurs, designers, and creators to bring their app ideas to life without needing to write code. Its drag-and-drop interface, combined with powerful backend capabilities, makes it an attractive choice for building web applications. However, to truly leverage Bubble's potential and ensure your project's success, it's crucial to approach your build with strategy and insight.

In this in-depth article, we'll expand far beyond five bullet points to give you a complete framework to successfully build, launch, and grow with Bubble—covering everything from planning to design, optimization, feedback loops, scaling, and more.

1. Plan Before You Build

Define Your App's Core Functionality

Before diving into Bubble, take the time to clearly define what your app is meant to do. Identify its key features and user flow. What problems is your app solving? Who is your user? These foundational questions will inform every decision down the line.

Avoid the common mistake of building first and thinking later. Outline:

• User roles (admin, end user, guest)

• Key use cases

• Data types and relationships

• MVP vs. future features

A well-thought-out plan saves time, reduces complexity, and helps you prioritize development.

Sketch Your Interface

Even a simple pen-and-paper sketch of your app's interface can make the building process much smoother. Use tools like Figma or Whimsical to wireframe each screen and define visual hierarchy.

• Where will the navigation sit?

• How do users move from page to page?

• Where will CTAs and forms live?

These questions influence how you structure pages and data in Bubble.

2. Leverage Templates and Plugins Wisely

Start with a Template (but Customize It)

Bubble offers a variety of templates that can serve as a starting point for your app. Choosing one that closely aligns with your use case can drastically reduce development time. However, resist the urge to rely on it fully. Inspect every workflow and page structure.

• Rename elements to improve clarity

• Remove unused styles and components

• Replace demo data

Make it yours.

Use Plugins for Advanced Functionality

The Bubble ecosystem includes thousands of plugins—Stripe integration, PDF generation, Google Maps, and more. Plugins can save time and add depth to your product.

Be selective:

• Only install trusted, actively maintained plugins

• Avoid stacking unnecessary plugins

• Test plugins in a sandbox version of your app before going live

Too many plugins = slow performance + potential conflicts.

3. Optimize for Performance

Keep Your App Lean

The more elements and workflows your app has, the slower it may perform. Especially on initial page load, Bubble renders all visible elements unless hidden.

Tips:

• Break large pages into smaller, modular ones

• Use reusable elements to reduce duplication

• Set up conditional visibility to show/hide blocks dynamically

Optimize Workflows

Each workflow step adds time to page rendering or backend tasks. Simplify wherever possible:

• Batch operations using backend workflows

• Avoid unnecessary navigation or data fetches

• Use custom states for temporary, client-side values

Structure Your Database Properly

Bubble allows relational databases, so take advantage of it:

• Use "things" (data types) like Users, Orders, Posts

• Avoid storing repetitive data—use "linked fields" (e.g., Post’s Author = User)

• Use lists sparingly and only where aggregation is needed

Index frequently searched fields and set privacy rules.

4. Embrace Responsive Design

Design for All Devices

More than half of users will access your app on mobile. Use Bubble's responsive editor to ensure your layout adapts.

• Use groups and containers with max widths and margins

• Test different screen sizes from 320px (mobile) to 1440px (desktop)

• Enable "fixed width" only where necessary

A responsive app improves UX and accessibility.

Test Constantly

Test across:

• Different browsers (Chrome, Safari, Edge)

• Devices (iPhone, Android, tablet, desktop)

• Orientations (portrait, landscape)

Responsive issues tend to compound late in builds, so fix early and often.

5. Iterate Based on User Feedback

Launch Early, Learn Often

Don’t wait for your app to be perfect before launching. A working MVP can attract your first users, validate your concept, and uncover pain points.

Build:

• A basic feature set that solves the core problem

• A clear onboarding process

• A feedback channel (chat widget, email, form)

Then, iterate fast.

Feedback Loops Are Gold

• Add Net Promoter Score (NPS) tools to gauge satisfaction

• Use tools like Hotjar or Smartlook to analyze user behavior

• Monitor page speed, workflow logs, and app logs

Act on this data every week. Identify what frustrates users, what excites them, and what blocks them from returning.

6. Scale with Backend Workflows and APIs

Use Backend Workflows for Heavy Logic

As your app grows, running everything client-side can slow things down. Bubble’s backend workflows let you offload processing-heavy tasks such as bulk updates, scheduled operations, and background automations. You can schedule workflows to run on specific intervals or trigger them via user actions.

• Send reminder emails using scheduled backend workflows

• Automate data cleanup routines at night

• Queue processes that shouldn't block the user

Backend workflows are a key to maintaining speed and responsiveness, especially at scale.

Integrate with External APIs

Bubble has a native API connector that lets you connect with any external service. Whether you're using Stripe, OpenAI, Notion, or Zapier, integrations can transform what your app can do.

• Automate CRM entries

• Send Slack notifications

• Use AI to generate dynamic content

Document all external calls and protect sensitive keys with privacy rules.

7. Secure Your Bubble App Properly

Implement Robust Privacy Rules

By default, Bubble gives you full control over who sees and manipulates your data—but it’s up to you to set it up. Never rely solely on front-end conditions to hide data. Use Bubble’s privacy tab to restrict access to database types based on user roles.

• Only show a user their own data

• Allow admin-level access for specific accounts

• Prevent API exposure unless authenticated

Secure API Endpoints and Keys

If you’re using third-party APIs, hide your keys inside your app’s Settings tab. Use environment variables rather than placing tokens directly into workflows.

8. Design an Interface That Feels Native

Stay Consistent with Spacing and Typography

UI inconsistency creates friction. Define a design system early on: heading sizes, button styles, margin spacing, and color palette. Bubble doesn’t enforce this—so it’s up to you to be rigorous.

• Use reusable elements for headers, footers, and cards

• Create styles for buttons, inputs, and texts

• Keep padding consistent across containers

Use Visual Feedback

Users expect clear visual feedback: loaders, success messages, error states. Use Bubble’s conditional formatting and animations for:

• Loading indicators while workflows run

• Green/red messages for success/failure

• Disabled buttons when forms are incomplete

9. Avoid Common Mistakes When Building in Bubble

Mistake 1: No Version Control Strategy

Use Bubble’s versioning system wisely. Always develop in a staging version, test thoroughly, and only then deploy to live. Maintain backups before significant changes.

Mistake 2: Ignoring Data Relationships

Treat Bubble’s database like any relational system. Avoid redundant fields, and build efficient data connections. Create clear links (e.g. Post ↔ Author) and minimize “list of things” where it’s not necessary.

Mistake 3: Overcomplicating Early Builds

Your first build should be your MVP. Avoid building for edge cases too early. Launch something functional, gather data, and iterate intelligently.

10. Maintain and Update Your Bubble App Over Time

Plan for Ongoing Maintenance

Launching is only the beginning. A Bubble app requires regular maintenance to stay secure, functional, and aligned with user needs. Make a habit of:

• Reviewing error logs and bug reports weekly

• Updating outdated workflows and design components

• Backing up app versions regularly

Use Bubble's built-in versioning tools to create snapshots before each major update.

Monitor Feature Usage

Use analytics tools to understand which features are used most, and which can be improved or retired. This helps guide future iterations and reduces technical debt.

• Monitor with tools like PostHog, Mixpanel, or Google Analytics

• Retire or refactor underused workflows

• Archive old data that no longer needs to be active

11. Collaborate Effectively with Teams in Bubble

Set Clear Roles and Permissions

If you're working with a team—developers, designers, marketers—define clear workflows from day one. Use Bubble’s collaboration settings to restrict who can edit what.

• Assign development-only access vs. design-only access

• Use development branches for testing and experimentation

Document Everything

Build internal documentation for:

• Data structure and field definitions

• Plugin usage and custom logic

• API endpoints and environment variables

This reduces onboarding time for new team members and limits confusion.

12. Looking Ahead: The Future of Bubble Development

Bubble is constantly evolving, with new features and performance upgrades rolled out regularly. Stay ahead by:

• Following Bubble's release notes and changelogs

• Participating in Bubble forums and communities

• Experimenting with new tools (like the new responsive engine or AI integrations)

The low-code/no-code movement is only growing. By investing in Bubble today—and continuing to learn and adapt—you’re putting yourself at the forefront of modern software development.

13. Real-World Use Cases of Bubble

Bubble isn’t just for prototypes or hobby projects. Many companies have built full-scale platforms with Bubble that generate revenue and serve thousands of users. Here are just a few real-world examples:

Startup SaaS Tools

Many early-stage SaaS founders build their first MVPs entirely on Bubble. This allows them to validate demand, onboard early users, and raise funding without spending months on development. Examples include:

• A subscription analytics dashboard that tracks customer churn and revenue

• A content creation platform that lets clients manage social media posts collaboratively

• A booking system for coaches and consultants

Internal Tools and Automation

Teams inside larger companies use Bubble to build custom dashboards, internal CRMs, or workflow automations without involving the dev team. It can replace spreadsheets and reduce dependency on over-engineered legacy tools.

• A company HR team built an employee onboarding portal with document uploads, welcome checklists, and reminders

• A sales team created a custom lead-tracking system integrated with Google Sheets and email triggers

Marketplaces and Directories

Marketplaces are among the most common use cases:

• A job board for remote developers

• A real estate directory with custom filters and maps

• A two-sided marketplace connecting freelancers with clients

These apps handle user accounts, payments, search filters, and messaging—all built in Bubble.

14. Comparing Bubble to Other No-Code Tools

No-code is a growing ecosystem, and while Bubble is one of the most powerful full-stack tools, it’s worth understanding how it compares to others:

Bubble vs. Webflow

• Webflow is great for visual websites and CMS-based projects

• Bubble is better for logic-heavy apps (e.g. marketplaces, dashboards)

• Webflow is limited in backend capability unless integrated with tools like Xano

Bubble vs. Adalo and Glide

• Adalo and Glide focus on mobile-first apps

• They’re easier for simple apps but more limited in logic and scalability

• Bubble supports responsive web apps and PWA, but not native mobile out of the box

Bubble vs. WeWeb + Xano

• WeWeb + Xano offers greater separation between frontend and backend

• Developers who prefer modularity or already use APIs may prefer this stack

• Bubble is more beginner-friendly with a unified environment

Each tool has trade-offs. The key is to choose based on your app’s goals, complexity, and your team's strengths.

15. Bubble’s Ecosystem and Learning Resources

Learn from the Community

The Bubble community is one of the strongest assets you can tap into. With thousands of active users, forums, bootcamps, and agencies, you're never far from advice or solutions to complex challenges. Be sure to:

• Join the Bubble forum and ask questions or share your app

• Follow Bubble tutorials on YouTube or the official documentation

• Explore template marketplaces for inspiration

Recommended Learning Paths

Depending on your background, your learning approach may differ:

• For designers: Focus on Bubble’s responsive engine and UI practices

• For entrepreneurs: Learn the fundamentals of databases, workflows, and MVP strategy

• For tech-savvy builders: Explore API Connector, backend workflows, and conditional logic in depth

Courses by Zeroqode, Coaching No Code Apps, and Buildcamp can shorten your learning curve significantly.

Connect with Experts

If you're stuck or planning a complex launch, hire a Bubble freelancer or agency. Platforms like Codemap, Upwork, or the Bubble Forum’s freelance section offer curated talent.

Conclusion: Build Smarter with Bubble

Building with Bubble is not just about learning a tool—it's about adopting a new way of thinking. You are empowered to become both designer and developer, and to iterate quickly with fewer dependencies.

To recap:

• Plan and sketch before you build

• Leverage the ecosystem, but don’t overdo it

• Build with performance and scale in mind

• Design responsively for real users

• Iterate relentlessly based on real-world feedback

Bubble gives you the canvas—how well you paint is up to you. With the right mindset and best practices, you can launch an app that delights users and grows with your business.

Need expert help building or scaling your Bubble app? Contact App Studio—we specialize in no-code platforms that perform.