Bolt.new - Lovable alternative

Bolt.new is a browser-based AI development environment powered by StackBlitz WebContainers. It allows users to prompt, run, edit, and deploy full-stack applications without local setup. The platform gives AI models control over the entire development environment including the filesystem, node server, package manager, terminal, and browser console. Solo developers may prefer this Lovable alternative when they need back-end functionality, API integrations, or want more control over technical implementation details.

Strengths

Full-stack capabilities with npm package installation, Node.js server execution, and third-party API interactions
Recent updates improved design capabilities significantly, making it competitive for front-end work
Built-in integrations with Netlify for deployment and Supabase for database management
Free plan includes 1 million tokens total with daily limits around 100k tokens (approximately 25k tokens per build request)
Token-based pricing model provides flexibility for variable usage patterns
Supports most popular JavaScript frameworks that run on StackBlitz

Weaknesses

No built-in deployment hosting—requires external platforms like Netlify
Slightly harder learning curve suited to more experienced builders compared to Lovable
Currently in beta with active development and potential stability issues
Extended use can be limiting for complex projects due to browser-based environment constraints

Best for

Developers and advanced builders creating production-grade web applications with authentication, APIs, and complex back-end logic.

Pricing plans

Free — $0 — 1M tokens lifetime, ~100k daily token limit
Pro — $20/month — 10M tokens/month
Team — $40/month per user — Higher usage limits, collaboration features, team project management
Enterprise — Custom pricing — Priority support, usage scaling, security compliance

Tech details

Type: Browser-based AI development environment with WebContainer sandbox
IDEs: Browser-only (no traditional IDE integration); web-based code editor with terminal access
Key features: Full npm ecosystem support, Node.js server execution, live preview, deployment to production, GitHub integration
Privacy / hosting: Cloud-based environment; projects stored on Bolt servers; seamless GitHub export for self-hosting
Models / context window: Uses Claude models; specific context window details not publicly disclosed

When to choose this over Lovable

You need advanced back-end functionality like user authentication or API integrations
You want more control over the development process and project architecture
You prefer working with the full npm ecosystem and Node.js capabilities

When Lovable may be a better fit

You need built-in deployment hosting with custom domain support in the same platform
You prioritize ease of use and beginner-friendly interfaces over technical flexibility
Your project focuses primarily on front-end UI and doesn't require complex back-end logic

Conclusion

Bolt.new distinguishes itself by giving AI models complete control over the development environment, enabling true full-stack development in the browser. The platform offers slightly more value in its free and paid plans compared to similar tools. While it requires more technical knowledge than Lovable, it provides the flexibility and power needed for production-grade applications. The combination of AI-assisted development and a complete runtime environment makes it a strong Lovable alternative for developers who need both front-end polish and back-end capability.

Sources

FAQ

What frameworks does Bolt.new support?

Bolt.new supports most popular JavaScript frameworks and libraries that run on StackBlitz, including Vite, Next.js, Astro, and Tailwind. The platform recommends mentioning specific frameworks in your initial prompt to ensure proper project scaffolding.

How does Bolt.new's token pricing work?

Bolt.new uses a token-based pricing model rather than credit-based like some competitors. The Pro plan includes 10 million tokens monthly, with approximately 25k tokens consumed per build request. This provides flexible usage based on actual AI processing rather than fixed request counts.

Can I deploy my Bolt.new projects?

Yes. Bolt.new offers seamless deployment through Netlify integration and built-in GitHub export functionality. However, unlike Lovable, it does not have its own built-in hosting platform. You can export your code to GitHub and deploy anywhere.

Does Bolt.new work offline or require internet?

No. Bolt.new is a cloud-based platform that requires internet connectivity. The WebContainer environment runs in your browser but depends on Bolt's servers for AI processing and project storage.

How does Bolt.new compare to traditional IDEs?

Unlike traditional IDEs like Cursor and Windsurf, much of what happens behind the scenes is obscured in Bolt.new. You can interact with the code editor and terminal, but the platform is designed for AI-assisted development rather than manual coding workflows.

What happens when I hit the free usage limit?

Once your free daily token limit is reached, AI interactions are paused until the next day or until you upgrade to a paid plan. Your existing projects and code remain accessible even when AI features are paused.

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