Bubble Desktop or Cloud: which one to choose when?

Since the launch of Bubble Cloud, we’re often asked: "When should I offer Bubble Cloud to my customers?" A fair question, many partners are so used to Bubble Desktop that Bubble Cloud sometimes slips under the radar. But we prefer to turn the question around: "When would you still choose Bubble Desktop if you can also use Bubble Cloud?" With all the advantages that Bubble Cloud offers, that’s a valid question and in this article, we’ll explain why.

More convenience, less hassle: the benefits of Bubble Cloud at a glance

Across nearly every industry, the trend is clear: local software is increasingly being replaced by cloud-based solutions. And for good reason. Cloud software makes installation and maintenance significantly easier. You no longer have to worry about local networks, access permissions, or update policies. With Bubble Cloud, users always work with the most up-to-date version. This prevents issues, ensures consistency across users, and guarantees that tools are always equipped with the latest features and security enhancements. The result? Less hassle for users and higher satisfaction.

For Red Cactus partners, that satisfaction translates into direct benefits: less time spent on technical setup, no concerns about local IT environments, and fewer support requests simply because there are fewer variables that could affect functionality. Managing everything also becomes easier: all settings are centrally accessible through the web configurator in the partner portal — no need for individual installations or login steps per PC.

And the best part? Functionally, there’s very little difference between Bubble Desktop and Bubble Cloud. You’re not giving anything up but gaining ease of use, clarity, and time savings in return. The additional cost is so minimal that it’s easily outweighed by the value you get back. From a cost perspective, Bubble Cloud is a no-brainer. It makes working easier, smarter, safer, and more efficient.

Why Bubble Cloud is the smart choice for call logging and AI transcriptions

Bubble Cloud also offers a major advantage that makes a real difference for many users: independence from the local PC. While Bubble Desktop is tied to an application running on a specific device, Bubble Cloud keeps working even when that PC is turned off. This is ideal for users on the go who still want their calls to be logged automatically in the CRM.

And with new features like AI-generated transcriptions, which are stored directly under the right contact in the CRM, flexibility becomes even more important. Bubble Cloud handles this with ease, without relying on a local setup. Especially in mobile or hybrid work environments, Bubble Cloud is simply the more logical choice.

Bubble Cloud where possible, Bubble Desktop where needed

Does this mean you’ll never need Bubble Desktop again if you have Bubble Cloud? Not quite. In a few specific cases, Bubble Desktop is still the better option. Think of CRM or telephony platforms that don’t support communication with cloud applications and require a local integration. In healthcare networks, such as environments with e-Zorg connections, it’s often necessary for communication between applications to stay fully within the secured healthcare network. That’s exactly where Bubble Desktop excels.

Wondering which of the 200+ supported CRM applications still require Bubble Desktop? You’ll find them easily on our marketplace, where each CRM integration is marked with clear icons showing whether it’s compatible with Bubble Cloud, Bubble Desktop, or both. For telephony platforms, you’ll find compatibility details under the ‘Features’ tab. For all other situations, Bubble Cloud is the better choice.

Pop-up notifications with Bubble Cloud? No problem.

Missing the familiar pop-up notifications from Bubble Desktop when using Bubble Cloud? No worries, there are plenty of Bubble applications that support pop-up notifications and offer all the same functionality. These include our Chrome and Edge plug-ins, embedded CRM and telephony apps, and even setups where Bubble functions as a gateway. Bubble applications are multi-cross developed, meaning they work seamlessly on both Bubble Desktop and Bubble Cloud. Click here for an overview of all compatible applications.

How to order Bubble Cloud and start a free trial

Bubble Cloud is available to order through the partner portal just like you’re used to with Bubble user licenses. Of course, we’ve added all necessary documentation to the knowledge base. As with regular user licenses, you can activate a free 30-day trial for up to 5 users with Bubble Cloud. This way, your customer can explore all the benefits of cloud integration completely risk-free. Curious about pricing? You’ll find it in the partner portal under Billing > Pricing. Can’t see that option? Then your partner environment likely falls under a Red Cactus distributor. In that case, you can request pricing directly from them.