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When it comes to building data connectors for Bubble, there are several approaches to explore. In this article, we'll briefly discuss four main methods: using an external sync service, creating a client-side plugin element, developing a server-side plugin action, and utilizing Bubble’s API connector.
1. External sync service
In this method, users provide access to their Bubble Data API, and we develop an external service that syncs between Bubble and a third-party API.
Pros:
- More control over setup and data mapping since not restricted by Bubble plugin limitations
- Real-time two-way syncs possible
Cons:
- Users will need Bubble’s paid subscription for Data API access
- High workload usage from frequent Data API polling, leading to potentially high costs for users
2. Client-Side Element
In this approach, we build a Bubble plugin element for processing records and then use OAuth methods to connect to the third-party API (secrets can't be used in the browser!). The use of an API proxy is optional, depending on whether the third-party API allows direct browser calls.
Pros:
- Does not consume Bubble workload units, allowing for constant data updates and no additional usage costs for Bubble users.
Cons:
- Requires users to manually configure the third-party API data types.
- Only supports one-way syncs.
- Requires an API proxy if the third-party API can't be called from the browser.
3. Server-Side Plugin Action
In this method, we build a plugin action to interact directly with the third-party API through Bubble’s own server.
Pros:
- Self-contained within Bubble's ecosystem; no external services required.
Cons:
- Users need to define data types for each table connection manually, similar to the Client-Side element option.
- Users must determine the schedule for data retrieval; automatic refresh is not possible in the plugin.
- Workload units are expended with each data fetch.
4. Bubble’s API Connector
In this method, we use Bubble’s API connector within the plugin to connect to the third-party API. It’s the most straightforward option that doesn’t require any custom code.
Pros:
- Quickest to set up.
- Self-contained within Bubble’s ecosystem.
- Great for connecting to data sources that will return the same format each time.
Cons:
- Inflexible; if you’re building a connector to connect to your users' custom data with fields that are unknowable ahead of time, this won’t work.
And that wraps up four approaches to building data connectors in Bubble. Which approach are you considering? Feel free to send a note to hey@lunchpaillabs.com
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