The stack

The tools that actually work right now

No-code and AI go further than anyone told you. Here's what to reach for, grouped by what you're trying to do.

How to choose, before you subscribe to anything

  1. Start with one tool, not ten. Pick a single builder from the first group, stay on its free tier, and build something real. Add a second tool only when you hit a wall: you've run out of free credits, or you need something it genuinely can't do.
  2. The groups below are stages, not a shopping list. Build first. Refine once your app exists. Measure once people use it. Grow once there's something to grow. Nobody needs a tool from every group on day one.
  3. Free tiers are the point. Nearly everything here lets you start without paying. Outgrow the free tier first, then pay for the one tool you kept reaching for.

Not sure which builder fits your idea? The Library has guides on choosing tools, briefing developers, and what building should cost.

Build the app

These overlap almost completely, so pick one and stay until you outgrow its free tier. Already using Claude Code or Codex? They can do this job too, so try yours before subscribing to anything new.

Refine the code

For when your app exists and needs careful changes. These mirror the chat subscriptions: Claude includes Claude Code, ChatGPT includes Codex. Use the one you already pay for before buying anything new.

Backend & data

Check what your builder already gave you. Lovable, for example, wires in Supabase for you.

Ship & host

Most builders host your app for you, so reach here when you want your own domain or a separate marketing site. The exception is GitHub: connect it early, because owning your code is non-negotiable.

Measure & monitor

Add these after launch, once strangers are using the thing. All three run for a long time on free tiers.

Customers & growth

One at a time, as the need appears: a form when you want a waitlist, a booking link when customer calls start.

Research

The free tiers cover founder research. Pay only if you hit the daily limits.

Ops & content

You likely already pay for one of these. Use what you have before adding more.