AI App Builders That Will Change How You Code Forever—But Only ONE Gives You Total Control
TL;DR: After testing Bolt.new, Lovable.dev, and Dyad.sh, Dyad.sh gives you total control with local development, multiple AI models, and no usage limits. Lovable excels at marketing pages, while Bolt.new is decent for rapid prototyping.
Having used different AI coding tools extensively, here's my detailed assessment of the three major players that are changing how we build applications:
https://bolt.new/
Strengths:
- Cloud-based AI-native IDE with rapid full-stack app generation in-browser, no local setup needed.
- Supports multiple frontend frameworks like Next.js, Svelte, Vue, Astro, React, Expo.
- Full control over the development environment inside the browser including npm package installation, running Node.js servers, and deployment.
- AI powered by Anthropic's Claude models ensuring advanced code generation and bug fixing.
- Good for fast prototyping and proofs-of-concept.
- Token-based pricing with flexible subscriptions.
Weaknesses:
- Cloud-based, so dependent on internet and external servers.
- Token consumption can become costly for bigger projects.
- Some performance and compatibility limitations due to running in-browser.
- Limited AI model choice as it relies on Anthropic models only.
- Mainly a solo developer tool, limited real-time collaboration.
https://lovable.dev/
Strengths:
- Chat-driven, no-code/low-code approach suitable for non-technical users.
- Full-stack app generation with backend integration (Supabase, Stripe).
- Supports real-time collaboration (beta), team-oriented.
- Visual editing for design; GitHub integration for version control.
- Fast to build and launch apps, ideal for startup teams and UX/UI designers.
- Includes hosting services for easy deployment.
Weaknesses:
- Limited direct code editing inside the app; edits require GitHub external tools.
- Less flexibility and framework choices compared to Bolt.new.
- Can struggle with complex or detailed logic prompting.
- Free plan limits message usage which can restrict large projects.
- UI customization options are basic, not drag-and-drop oriented.
https://dyad.sh
Strengths:
- Runs locally on user machine offering privacy and full control.
- Supports undo functionality and detailed control over AI model selection.
- Can integrate with multiple AI models including Gemini, Claude, GPT-4.1, and local models via Ollama or LM Studio.
- Offers React Native templates, Chrome extension scaffolds, web apps, and syncs with GitHub, Vercel, Supabase.
- Open-source and highly customizable with community support.
- No imposed token or API usage limits; cheaper and more flexible.
- Designed for speed and fluid user experience with instant previews.
Weaknesses:
- Requires local setup which may be a barrier for non-technical users.
- Smaller ecosystem and community compared to Bolt.new and Lovable.
Key Takeaways
Each platform serves different needs: Lovable for quick marketing sites, Bolt.new for cloud-based prototyping, and Dyad.sh for developers who want total control over their AI coding environment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which AI app builder should I choose for my first project? A: Start with Lovable.dev if you're building marketing pages or need a no-code/low-code solution. Choose Dyad.sh if you want full control and are comfortable with local development.
Q: Can I use multiple AI models with these platforms? A: Only Dyad.sh supports multiple AI models (Gemini, Claude, GPT-4.1, and local models). Bolt.new and Lovable are limited to their proprietary AI integrations.
Q: Are these tools suitable for production applications? A: Dyad.sh is best for production due to local control and no usage limits. Bolt.new and Lovable work well for prototypes and MVPs but have limitations for complex production applications.
Q: Do I need coding experience to use these AI app builders? A: Lovable requires the least technical knowledge with its chat-driven interface. Bolt.new and Dyad.sh work best if you have some development experience, though Dyad.sh offers more control for experienced developers.
Q: What's the cost difference between these platforms? A: Dyad.sh has no token/API limits and is generally cheaper for heavy users. Bolt.new uses token-based pricing that can get expensive. Lovable has usage limits on free plans but offers paid tiers.
