NocoDB vs Smartsheet
A detailed comparison of NocoDB and Smartsheet to help you choose the right tool for your needs.
Smartsheet
Platform for managing work through a spreadsheet-like interface.
💰 Pricing Comparison
| Plan | NocoDB | Smartsheet |
|---|---|---|
| Free Tier | ✓ Free (self-hosted) | ✓ 1 user, 2 sheets |
| Lowest Paid | Free | $9/user/mo |
| Enterprise | Cloud plans available | Custom pricing |
⚡ Feature Comparison
| Feature | NocoDB | Smartsheet |
|---|---|---|
| Spreadsheet interface | ✓ | ✓ |
| Gallery view | ✓ | — |
| Kanban view | ✓ | — |
| Form builder | ✓ | — |
| API access | ✓ | ✓ |
| Self-hosting | ✓ | — |
| Database connection | ✓ | — |
| Automations | ✓ | ✓ |
| Shared views | ✓ | — |
| Plugins | ✓ | — |
| Gantt charts | — | ✓ |
| Dashboards | — | ✓ |
| Resource management | — | ✓ |
| Forms | — | ✓ |
| Reports | — | ✓ |
| Proofing | — | ✓ |
| Connectors | — | ✓ |
| Open Source | ✓ | ✗ |
| Rating | ⭐ 4.1 | ⭐ 4.1 |
Pros & Cons
NocoDB
Pros
- ✓ Open source
- ✓ Self-hostable
- ✓ Database-backed
- ✓ Free
Cons
- ✗ Less polished than Airtable
- ✗ Fewer templates
- ✗ Complex setup
- ✗ Limited support
Smartsheet
Pros
- ✓ Familiar spreadsheet UI
- ✓ Powerful automation
- ✓ Great for data-heavy projects
- ✓ Strong integrations
Cons
- ✗ Expensive for full features
- ✗ Can be slow
- ✗ Complex formula syntax
- ✗ Limited mobile app
🏆 The Verdict
Choose NocoDB if: You need developers wanting an open-source airtable. NocoDB excels with its open source and self-hostable.
Choose Smartsheet if: You need teams comfortable with spreadsheets. Smartsheet stands out with its familiar spreadsheet ui and powerful automation.
Best free option: Both NocoDB and Smartsheet offer free tiers. NocoDB offers "Free (self-hosted)" while Smartsheet offers "1 user, 2 sheets".
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Is NocoDB better than Smartsheet?
It depends on your needs. NocoDB is better for developers wanting an open-source airtable, while Smartsheet is better for teams comfortable with spreadsheets. Both are excellent tools rated 4.1 and 4.1 respectively.
Which is cheaper, NocoDB or Smartsheet?
NocoDB starts at Free while Smartsheet starts at $9/user/mo. Both offer free tiers.
Can I switch from NocoDB to Smartsheet?
Most tools offer import/export features to help you migrate. We recommend trying Smartsheet's free tier before fully committing to a switch.
💰 Stop Overpaying for SaaS
Join smart professionals who receive our weekly roundup of the best SaaS deals, free alternatives, and money-saving tips.
Free forever. Unsubscribe anytime. No spam.