Free Plan + Open-Source
A Smartsheet alternative for connected data
Start with a solid foundation, build with a familiar spreadsheet UI, and then grow with confidence.
A complete package for connected data
Smartsheet connects project management with spreadsheet management to keep your data and your team connected. But users find that their unique needs often require premium add-ons like DataMesh and Data Shuttle for fundamental tasks like linking and syncing information.
Grist’s database foundation means that related and connected data is built in from the get-go. Combine this with unparalleled permissions and real data ownership for a future-proof Smartsheet alternative.
Smartsheet’s hidden costs surface quickly
Premium add-ons for basics
DataMesh and Data Shuttle cost $100+/month just to link and sync your data.
The 20,000 row wall
Hit this limit and your sheets can fail without warning.
No true data ownership
Proprietary format locks you in. Grist uses portable SQLite files you can take anywhere that retain relationships.
Zero transparency
Closed-source. Grist’s open-source license allows for greater transparency and community trust.
Key differences
Smartsheet
Built-in PM tools like Gantt charts, critical paths, and resource tracking
Spreadsheet interface with layered PM features for operational teams
Portfolio management with rollup reports, dashboards, and cross-project visibility
Proprietary format creates vendor lock-in
Grist
Spreadsheet UI + database structure for clean data with higher row limits
Foundational flexibility and extensibility with custom views and integrations
Granular access rules (RBAC) for secure, cross-functional collaboration
SQLite format ensures data portability
Feature comparison
| Smartsheet | Grist | |
|---|---|---|
| Spreadsheet interface | ✔ | ✔ |
| Data visualizations | ✔ | ✔ |
| Reporting | ✔ | ✔ |
| Real-time collaboration | ✔ | ✔ |
| Automations | ✔ | ✔ |
| Excel formula support | ✔ | ✔ |
| API / webhooks | ✔ | ✔ |
| Forms | ✔ | ✔ |
| Integrations | ✔ | ✔ |
| Drag-and-drop layouts | ✔ | ✔ |
| Native Python support | X | ✔ |
| Relational data | X | ✔ |
| Free plan with no time limit | X | ✔ |
| Granular access controls | X | ✔ |
| Self-hostable | X | ✔ |
| Open-source | X | ✔ |
| AI Assistant | Enterprise only. | ✔ |
| Row limits | 20,000 (All plans). | 5,000 (free plan), 150,000 (Paid). |
Grist is the best Smartsheet alternative for:
Businesses with unique processes in need of highly customizable solutions
Enterprises handling sensitive data who need to host on their own servers
Data-intensive teams needing robust relational databases and secure collaboration
Users looking to try out generous free solutions with no lock-in
Frequently asked questions
What happens to my data if I leave Grist?
Your data lives in standard SQLite files. Take it anywhere. No proprietary formats, no export headaches. True ownership.
Do I need to pay extra for basic features?
Never. Relational data, permissions, imports/exports, API access, for example, are all included. Even our AI Assistant is available on all plans, not just Enterprise.
Can I actually edit data in dashboards?
Yes. Unlike Smartsheet’s read-only dashboards, Grist’s layouts are fully interactive. View charts and edit underlying data on the same screen.