Software Alternatives & Startups

Apache Struts VS Retool

Compare Apache Struts VS Retool and see what are their differences

Apache Struts

Apache Struts is an open-source web application framework for developing Java EE web applications.

Rating
0 reviews
Retool

Build custom internal tools in minutes.

Rating
0 reviews
Pricing
Freemium Free trial $10 / Monthly (Startup)

Which is more popular?

Based on our record, Retool seems to be a lot more popular than Apache Struts. While we know about 104 links to Retool, we've tracked only 2 mentions of Apache Struts.

social mentions
2 vs 104
Developer Tools popularity
25% vs 75%
alternatives listed
113 vs 240+

Base details

Website, pricing, platforms and company facts side by side.

Apache Struts
Retool
Website struts.apache.org retool.com
Pricing —
Freemium Free trial $10 / Monthly (Startup) Official pricing
Company — Startup from the United States · 10 - 19 employees · 2017
Listed in

Features and specs

What each product offers, as listed by its team.

Apache Struts 5 features
Retool 5 features
  • Robust Framework
    Apache Struts is a mature and well-established framework for Java web applications, providing stable and reliable tools for enterprise-level applications.
  • MVC Architecture
    Struts adheres to the Model-View-Controller (MVC) design pattern, which separates business logic, presentation, and navigation, making code maintenance and development easier.
  • Extensive Documentation
    Struts has comprehensive documentation and a wealth of online resources, including tutorials, community forums, and user guides, which can support developers throughout their projects.
  • Rich Tag Library
    It comes with a rich set of custom tags that enhance the JSP (JavaServer Pages) to create dynamic web content easily.
  • Plugin Support
    Apache Struts supports various plugins that can extend its functionality, allowing developers to integrate additional features without much effort.

Possible disadvantages

  • Steep Learning Curve
    New developers might find Struts challenging to learn due to its complexity and the need for a good understanding of the MVC architecture and Java web application development.
  • Configuration Overhead
    The framework requires extensive XML configuration, which can be cumbersome and time-consuming compared to convention-over-configuration frameworks.
  • Performance
    Struts can be slower than some newer, lighter frameworks due to its broader feature set and the overhead associated with its extensive configuration.
  • Security Vulnerabilities
    Struts has had notable security vulnerabilities in the past. Although patches and updates are available, it necessitates proactive monitoring and maintenance.
  • Outdated Compared to Modern Frameworks
    With the advent of modern frameworks like Spring MVC and JavaServer Faces, some developers consider Struts to be less up-to-date with the latest web development standards and practices.
  • Speed of Development
    Retool allows developers to rapidly build internal tools with a drag-and-drop interface, reducing the time it takes to get functional applications up and running.
  • Integration Capabilities
    Retool supports integration with a wide range of databases, APIs, and other services, making it easier to connect different data sources and systems.
  • Customizability
    While Retool provides prebuilt components, it also allows for custom code and scripting, enabling developers to tailor applications to specific requirements.
  • Collaboration Features
    Retool supports collaborative features, such as sharing applications with team members and version control, making it easier to work in teams.
  • Security
    Retool provides robust security features, including access control and data encryption, to help protect sensitive information.

Possible disadvantages

  • Cost
    Retool can be relatively expensive compared to building internal tools from scratch or using some other platforms, potentially making it less accessible for smaller teams or startups.
  • Learning Curve
    Despite its user-friendly interface, there can be a learning curve for new users who need to become familiar with its specific functionalities and scripting capabilities.
  • Customization Limitations
    Though Retool offers customizability, there might be certain limitations compared to fully bespoke solutions, impacting highly specific or complex use cases.
  • Dependency on Retool
    Relying heavily on Retool may create a dependency that could be problematic if the company changes its pricing, features, or discontinues services.
  • Performance
    For very large datasets or highly complex operations, performance can become an issue, as it is with many platform-based solutions.

Analysis

An editorial look at what each product does well and who it suits.

Apache Struts
Retool

Overall verdict

  • Apache Struts is a robust framework, suitable for building Java-based web applications, but it's crucial to stay vigilant regarding security updates.

Why this product is good

  • Apache Struts is known for its MVC framework, which is useful for creating well-structured and maintainable Java applications. It provides a range of comprehensive features like a flexible tag library, integration with other Java frameworks, and a strong support community. However, it has faced some high-profile security vulnerabilities in the past, underscoring the importance of keeping the framework timely updated.

Recommended for

  • Organizations developing enterprise-level Java applications
  • Developers familiar with Java and looking for a robust MVC framework
  • Teams interested in integrating their web applications with other Java technologies

No analysis of Retool yet.

Videos

Walkthroughs and reviews on video.

Apache Struts 3 videos + Add
Retool 3 videos + Add

Finding and Fixing Apache Struts CVE-2017-5638 with Black Duck Hub

More videos

  • - Apache Struts 2 - remote command execution
  • - Dark ambient drone music | Vulnerable Apache Struts installation under attack (Java, Jakarta)

Retool - Logic Review

More videos

  • - #Worth?! Ep.12 - Retool (Gameplay / Review)
  • - February NY Enterprise Tech Meetup: Retool Demo

Category popularity

How often each product is chosen within a category, 0–100% relative to the other.

Score bands 0–20 21–40 41–50 51–60 61–100
Apache Struts
Retool
25% 25%
75% 75%
0% 0%
100% 100%
100% 100%
0% 0%
100% 100%
0% 0%

User comments

Share your experience with using Apache Struts and Retool. For example, how are they different and which one is better?

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Reviews and articles

External articles and on-site reviews we used to compare the two products.

Apache Struts no reviews yet
Retool no reviews yet

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Social recommendations and mentions

Recommendations tracked on public social media and blogs since March 2021.

Apache Struts 2 mentions
Retool 104 mentions

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Alternatives to Apache Struts and Retool

When comparing Apache Struts and Retool, you can also consider the following products.