You use CRUD(Create, Read, Update, and Delete) apps every day, whether you realize it or not. Any tool that lets you create an account, update a task, delete a file, or browse content—it's all running on CRUD operations behind the scenes.
Think about publishing a blog post, updating a user profile, or removing an outdated product from an online store. That’s CRUD in action.
But here’s the part most people don’t know: CRUD apps aren’t just for big tech companies. With the right builder, you can create your own.
This guide breaks down what CRUD means, why it matters, and how you can build a functional CRUD app in minutes using Softr.
What is CRUD?
CRUD stands for Create, Read, Update, and Delete—the four essential actions apps perform to manage data.
Here’s how it plays out in everyday apps:
- Create: Add new data, like submitting a form, signing up for a service, or creating a record.
- Read: View or retrieve existing data—like opening a document, browsing posts, or checking your account details. For example, every time you log into Softr Studio (where you build your CRUD apps, business applications, and internal tools without coding), you’re accessing and retrieving modals such as your account settings, application configurations, and existing projects.
- Update: Change existing info, such as editing a task, updating a profile picture, or revising a product description.
- Delete: Remove data that’s no longer needed—like deleting a comment, removing a team member, or clearing out outdated files.
These operations are simple, but they’re the backbone of nearly every interactive app. And now, building them doesn’t require writing any backend logic—just the right tool.
What is a CRUD app?
At its core, a CRUD app lets users Create, Read, Update, and Delete data—those four actions power everything from simple to-do lists to social platforms and business apps. What’s new? Today, platforms empower non‑technical users to build these apps through visual editors and AI-assisted tools, expanding what “building” means in 2025.
The three essential layers of a CRUD app are:
1. User Interface (UI)
Visual elements—forms, lists, cards, let users perform CRUD actions. At the same time, AI features like smart field suggestions or dynamic form logic are increasingly common.
2. Database (data layer)
This is where information is stored—whether in traditional databases (SQL or NoSQL), spreadsheets, or cloud APIs (think Airtable, Google Sheets, Notion). Modern builders keep data up-to-date and 2-way synced across tools.
3. Application logic & backend
In traditional apps, you'd build REST or GraphQL endpoints and validation logic. With no-code builders, these layers are abstracted: automation, data validation, permissions, and business logic are configured visually—and often improved with AI or integrations.
Each CRUD action from the user interface sends a request to the backend server, which processes it through specific HTTP methods—like POST for creating data or GET for retrieving it. The backend also handles business logic (rules that govern how the app behaves) and data validation (making sure inputs are correct and secure) before interacting with the database.
Why build a CRUD app?
If you’re managing growing amounts of data but don’t want to rely on developers for every change, a CRUD app gives you control. It’s a practical, cost-effective way to create custom tools for your business. So why use one? In most cases, a CRUD app is:
CRUD app examples & project ideas
You interact with CRUD apps every day. Anytime you create an account, update a profile, browse content, or delete something, you're using a system powered by CRUD operations.
A few examples of where CRUD shows up in real workflows are:
- Social platforms: Create posts, read feeds, update bios, or delete comments.
- Email tools: Compose messages, read your inbox, edit drafts, or clear out spam.
- Note-taking apps: Start a new note, review past entries, revise content, or remove what’s no longer needed.
- Online stores: Set up an account, browse products, update your cart, or cancel an order.
- Inventory systems: Add new items, view stock levels, adjust quantities or prices, and remove discontinued products.
If you’re looking to build your own CRUD app, these same principles apply. Here are some simple but powerful CRUD project ideas you can start with:
- A to-do list app where users can add, check, or delete tasks.
- An employee management system to handle team records and updates.
- A library tracker for managing books, borrowers, and availability.
- An event planner to add, update, or remove scheduled activities.
- An expense tracker that logs and edits personal or business costs.
Now that you have all the ideas, let's get to building.
How to build a CRUD app with Softr in easy steps
You can build a working CRUD app in Softr in just a few steps—no code required. Here’s how to get started using a template:
Step 1: Sign up or log in
Getting started with Softr takes only a few minutes. You can sign up for free here.
Step 2: Create a new Softr application
After signing up, you’ll be redirected to your Softr Studio with a prompt to create your app. You can either build your CRUD app from scratch, generate from data by starting with a template, starting from scratch, or generate with AI.
Step 3: Choose a template
For this example, let's use the Employee Directory Template.
This template is great for a CRUD app that helps you:
- Centralize employee information like roles, departments, and contact details
- Let team members update their own info or make requests without emailing HR
- Support a growing team structure—across contractors, locations, or departments
Whether you're in HR, ops, or running a fast-growing agency, this template gives you a ready-made foundation you can adapt as your team evolves.
Click “Use Template” to get started.
Step 4: Connect your data
You can use Softr’s built-in database or connect the app to your existing data that lives in Airtable, Google Sheets, Coda, ClickUp, Notion, or HubSpot.
When building your app, you can replace the sample data that comes with the template with your real data and map it to the right fields.
Step 5: Customize your app
Use drag-and-drop blocks to update layouts, add or remove pages, and match the design to your brand. Set up user groups and permissions to control who can see or change what.
Step 6: Publish and share
Once your app is ready, you can preview hw it looks, and then hit Publish and share the link with your team or clients. You now have a live, secure CRUD app that updates in real time—no additional technical setup needed.
That’s it—you’ve built a fully functional CRUD app in minutes, with secure access, real-time updates, and zero code. Whether it’s for internal ops or external collaboration, you’re ready to manage and share data with confidence.
What is a CRUD app? 6 tools to consider
Now, let's see what the most common CRUD apps there are in the market to meet your needs.
1. Softr
Softr is a no-code CRUD builder built for creating internal tools, client portals, resource hubs and other tools both for external and internal access. It connects directly to data sources like Airtable, Google Sheets, Notion, or Softr’s own database, so you can manage live data without writing backend logic.
You can start from a ready-made template—like a client portal, internal directory, or request tracker—and fully customize the layout, logic, and permissions. Users can securely submit forms, view records, update info, or delete outdated entries, all within a clean interface that matches your brand.
If you're looking to move beyond spreadsheets and give your team or clients a self-serve, real-time way to manage data, Softr gives you everything you need—no dev team required.
2. Budibase
Budibase is a low-code platform focused on building internal tools and admin panels. It works well for teams that want more backend control while still using a visual builder. You can connect it to a variety of data sources—including PostgreSQL, MySQL, Airtable, and REST APIs—or use Budibase’s internal database.
Budibase supports custom workflows, self-hosting, and role-based access control, making it a strong fit for developers or IT teams who want flexibility without starting from scratch. It’s ideal for apps where data integrity and process automation matter, but full custom development isn’t feasible.
3. Appsmith
Appsmith is an open-source, low-code platform built for engineers who want to move fast without giving up control. It’s especially useful for internal dashboards, admin panels, and database-driven tools.
You can connect Appsmith to SQL databases, REST APIs, or GraphQL endpoints, and then drag in components like tables, forms, or charts to create your UI. Unlike no-code platforms, Appsmith assumes some technical skill—you’ll still write queries and logic—but the visual builder helps speed up layout and integration.
It’s a solid choice for dev teams that need custom tools and want full extensibility, version control, and open-source flexibility.
4. Superblocks
Superblocks is a low-code platform built specifically for developers who need to ship custom internal tools fast. It integrates with databases, APIs, and third-party services, and lets you define app logic using JavaScript.
Where it stands out is in performance and control—you can build complex workflows, set up secure auth, and deploy apps that feel custom-built, without spending weeks on boilerplate. It’s especially suited for fast-moving startups and enterprise teams who want backend power with frontend speed.
5. UI Bakery
UI Bakery is a low-code platform built for internal tools and CRUD-based dashboards, offering a balance between ease of use and flexibility. According to recent expert reviews, it stands out for secure, enterprise-ready access control and a drag-and-drop builder that requires zero coding knowledge.
You can link UI Bakery to SQL databases or REST APIs, then visually compose your UI using tables, forms, and filters out of the box. Unlike more developer-focused platforms, UI Bakery keeps the interface simple while still supporting automated workflows and logic. It’s a strong choice for organizations that need polished internal tools with robust access control—no backend setup required.
6. Bubble
Bubble is a powerful no-code platform designed for building full-featured, database-driven applications—especially those with custom logic and user workflows. Unlike CRUD tools focused mainly on internal ops, Bubble is often used to build client-facing products, marketplaces, and SaaS tools.
You can design the interface visually, define complex logic without code, and manage dynamic content from Bubble’s built-in database or external APIs. It’s best suited for founders, product teams, or builders who want full creative control without hiring a dev team.
Build smarter, not harder
If your current tools can’t keep up—whether you're drowning in spreadsheets, stuck waiting on devs, or managing disconnected systems, a CRUD app is your next step. With the right builder, you don’t need to code or start from scratch.
Softr makes it easy to go from siloed data to a live, secure app your team or clients can actually use. You don’t need to code or wait on anyone—just set up a tool where your team or clients can add, update, or manage data in real time.
Ready to try it for yourself? Pick a template, connect your data, and get your app live in minutes.
What is Softr
Softr is the easiest way to turn your data into powerful business apps—no code required. Connect to your spreadsheet or database, customize layout and logic, and share with your team or clients.
Join 800,000+ users worldwide, building client portals, internal tools, CRMs, dashboards, project management systems, inventory management apps, and more—all without code.
Join 800,000+ users worldwide, building client portals, internal tools, CRMs, dashboards, project management systems, inventory management apps, and more—all without code.
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Wuraola Ademola-Shanu
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