AppSheet vs Google App Maker: What are the differences?

Introduction

AppSheet and Google App Maker are two platforms that allow users to create custom applications without the need for extensive coding skills. While both platforms serve similar purposes, there are key differences that set them apart.

1. Integration with Google Workspace: One of the key differences between AppSheet and Google App Maker is their integration with Google Workspace. AppSheet provides deep integration with various Google Workspace tools, such as Google Sheets, Google Drive, and Google Calendar. This allows users to easily leverage the data and functionality of these tools within their applications. On the other hand, Google App Maker, being a native Google product, offers seamless integration with other Google services, including Google Cloud Platform and Google Cloud SQL. This integration provides users with advanced data storage and management options.

2. Data Source Connectivity: Another significant difference lies in the data source connectivity options. AppSheet supports a wide range of data sources, including spreadsheets, databases, APIs, and cloud storage services. This allows users to connect their applications to various data sources and sync data in real-time. In contrast, Google App Maker primarily focuses on integrating with Google Cloud services, such as Google Cloud SQL and Google Sheets.

3. Development Approach: AppSheet follows a no-code development approach, empowering users to create applications using a visual interface and predefined templates. It offers a wide range of pre-built features and actions that can be customized to meet specific requirements. Google App Maker, on the other hand, follows a low-code development approach. While it also provides a visual editor, users have more control over the customization and can write code if needed. This makes Google App Maker suitable for users with some coding knowledge who want more flexibility in application development.

4. Deployment Options: When it comes to deployment, AppSheet offers multi-platform support, allowing users to create applications for both web and mobile platforms. Users can easily distribute their applications via web browsers, native iOS and Android apps, or even embed them into webpages. In comparison, Google App Maker only supports web-based deployment, restricting users to web browser access for their applications.

5. User Interface Design: AppSheet provides a range of pre-designed templates and themes to help users quickly create visually appealing and user-friendly interfaces. Users can customize the design elements to match their branding and create a consistent look and feel across their applications. Google App Maker offers a more generic interface design, giving users the freedom to create custom UI elements from scratch. This makes it suitable for users who require highly customized and unique user interfaces.

6. Community and Support: AppSheet has a strong community of users and developers who actively engage in forums, share knowledge, and provide support to fellow users. The community-driven support helps users troubleshoot issues, gain insights, and discover best practices. Google App Maker, being a Google product, benefits from the wider Google Developers community and resources, ensuring access to documentation, tutorials, and support from Google's extensive knowledge base.

In summary, AppSheet and Google App Maker differ in their integration with Google Workspace, data source connectivity, development approach, deployment options, user interface design, and community and support. These differences make each platform suitable for different user requirements, whether it be deep integration with Google services, flexibility in development, multi-platform deployment, customizable UI design, or access to a supportive community.