Side by side
Base44 vs Penguin
Both stand on portfolio website builders. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan AndroidAPIiPhone+1
Base44 combines natural-language app creation with backend setup, hosting, and integrations. Check the free plan's app and credit limits, and note the listed absence of mobile apps, before choosing it.
Visit Base44 Free plan Web
Penguin’s free plan covers a small portfolio, while Pro adds a personal domain and contact options. Check the limits on sections and work samples against the portfolio you want to publish.
Visit PenguinThe facts
| Base44 | Penguin | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | No | Not published |
| Runs on | Android, API, iPhone, Web | Web |
| Lowest paid plan | Starter: $16 a month | Pro: $11.99 a year |
| Plans published | 6 | 2 |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | base44.com | penguinthebuilder.com |
| On portfolio website builders | #26 of 81 | #30 of 81 |
Base44: what it does well
- Generates app code and design from plain-language instructions.
- Sets up authentication, data storage, and role-based permissions.
- Includes hosting, analytics, and custom domains.
- Supports one-click connectors and custom API integrations.
- Source export is available through two-way GitHub sync.
What to know first
- Free plan allows up to five apps.
- Free plan includes 25 message credits monthly.
- Paid plans start at $16 a month, billed annually.
- Mobile apps field is listed as no.
Penguin: what it does well
- Free plan includes every template
- Bilingual in English and Arabic
- Includes portfolio analytics and video hosting
- Pro adds a booking and WhatsApp button
What to know first
- Free plan allows one portfolio
- Free portfolio is limited to five sections
- Free plan uses a Penguin subdomain
- MP4 uploads require Pro
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