Look beyond the interface
A real app may need persistent data, user accounts, permissions, server-side logic, email, payments and integrations. Ask where each piece lives and how you inspect it when something goes wrong.
Understand the platform's backend model
Some builders provide an integrated backend; others connect to services such as Supabase. Lovable, for example, documents a native Supabase integration for PostgreSQL, authentication, storage and edge functions. Bolt Cloud advertises hosting, domains and databases in the same environment. Different approaches can both work; the important part is knowing what you will own and manage.
Check portability before you need it
Ask whether you can export code, connect GitHub and move hosting or data later. Base44 says paid plans can export code to GitHub or ZIP but do not support importing a GitHub project. Bolt documents two-way GitHub sync. Portability matters more when the app becomes valuable.
Budget for building and running
Do not compare only the headline subscription. AI generation can use credits or tokens, while databases, email, SMS, storage, domains and external APIs may have separate limits or charges. Model a realistic month for your own app.
Test recovery, not just creation
Ask the builder to change an existing feature, fix a broken state and preserve working behaviour. The quality of iteration matters because most of your time is spent after the first generation.
Shortlist by your project
Use our AI app builder comparison guide to narrow the field. For an integrated platform with a credit-based model, read the OverSkill review and credits guide before deciding.
Research note: Product capabilities and pricing were checked against official OverSkill, Lovable, Bolt and/or Base44 documentation on 22 September 2026 where relevant. Software changes quickly; confirm current terms before purchasing.