Flask
Flask: A small Python backend framework that leaves component choices to the developer. Ranked #11 of 31 in Web Frameworks by our editors (7.8/10); pricing: Free plan; best for python teams wanting a small, extensible web framework.
At a glance
- Editor score7.8 / 10
- PricingFree plan
- Best forPython teams wanting a small, extensible web framework
- Free planYes
- Paid fromFree
- Framework typeBackend
- Facts checked24 Sep 2026
Where it wins
- Provides URL routing and request and response handling.
- Integrates Jinja templates and supports cookie-based sessions.
- Keeps the core small and can be extended through Flask extensions.
Where it doesn't
- Does not include an ORM.
- Does not include built-in authentication.
- Its feature set is comparatively lean; added functionality depends on extensions.
Our verdict on Flask
Flask is an open-source Python backend framework for building web applications and services. It is suited to developers and teams who want a small core and prefer to choose which components to add, rather than start with a framework that bundles an ORM or authentication system. Its listed capabilities cover URL routing to application views, request and response handling, Jinja templates, cookie-based sessions, and a development server and debugger. Flask is a framework or library for self-hosted deployment, not a hosted software service.
The main trade-off is breadth. Flask supplies core web application building blocks and an extension mechanism, rather than including every application component in the framework. In particular, an ORM and built-in authentication are not part of its stated feature set. That can suit projects with specific component preferences, but teams looking for those capabilities bundled into the framework should weigh whether choosing and adding extensions fits their approach. The framework's hybrid rendering modes include Jinja template integration, while its primary language is Python.
Flask is open source and has a free offering, with no vendor pricing plan described. Its fit across solo, small, mid-market, and enterprise company sizes does not change the core trade-off: the framework keeps its built-in scope lean, and developers choose how to extend it. The development server and debugger support development, while deployment is self-hosted. Choose Flask if Python, a small framework core, and control over component selection are priorities. Consider an alternative if you need an ORM or authentication included as standard, or prefer a framework with a broader built-in feature set.
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Flask pricing
Flask fact sheet
| Free plan | Yes |
|---|---|
| Paid from | Free |
| Framework type | Backend |
| Primary languages | Python |
| Rendering modes | Hybrid |
| Included ORM | No |
| Built-in authentication | No |
| Deployment targets | Self-hosted |
| License model | Open-source |
| Deployment | Self-hosted |
| Platforms | Web |
| Built for | Solo, Small business, Mid-market, Enterprise (editorial estimate) |
| Pricing | Free plan |
| Website | flask.palletsprojects.com |
| Facts checked | 24 Sep 2026 |
Alternatives to Flask
- Ruby on RailsRails gives Ruby teams a convention-led, full-stack foundation for database-backed web apps.9.3
- DjangoA free Python backend framework combining ORM, authentication, administration, and deployment flexibility.9.1
- Next.jsA free, open-source full-stack React framework with hybrid rendering and backend routes.9.0
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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
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