TestApp.io is a full release workspace for iOS and Android: builds, tasks, playbooks and integrations with Slack, Jira and Linear. That's a lot of product if what you want is one tester on one iPhone.
TestApp.io and BuildFerry side by side
| TestApp.io | BuildFerry | |
|---|---|---|
| Focus | Release management for mobile teams | Getting an iOS build onto iPhones |
| Free plan | 1 app, 100 MB uploads, 30-day retention | 1 app, 200 MB builds |
| Paid plans | Starter and Pro | Solo $12 and Pro $29 a month |
| Registers new iPhones with Apple | Not listed on its pricing page | Yes, through your App Store Connect key |
| Re-signs for new iPhones | Not listed on its pricing page | Yes, in the cloud |
| Approval before install | Team members and testers | You approve each iPhone (or auto-approve) |
| Jira, Linear and Slack | Yes, on paid plans | No |
| Android | Yes | No, iOS only |
Why pick the simpler tool
- Testers don't sign up. They open a link in Safari and tap Install.
- New iPhones don't need a new build. BuildFerry registers and signs for each one.
- Bigger builds on the free plan. Up to 200 MB, compared with 100 MB.
When TestApp.io is the better choice
- You want QA tasks, release playbooks and two-way Jira or Linear sync next to your builds.
- You ship Android as well as iOS.
- Your builds are already signed for every tester, or you use enterprise distribution.
Questions
Is BuildFerry cheaper than TestApp.io?
Both have a free plan. BuildFerry's paid plans are $12 and $29 a month, and its free plan takes builds up to 200 MB. Check TestApp.io's pricing page for its current prices.
Does BuildFerry integrate with Jira or Slack?
Not yet. BuildFerry focuses on getting builds onto iPhones: device registration, signing and install links.