Database structure, spreadsheet interface
Take a quick tour of the Grist interface, customizable widgets, and relational capabilities.
Lightweight CRM Example
Project management comparison for modern businesses
Grist vs Smartsheet
Modern tools for managing complex data workflows — side by side. Find out which is better for your needs. Whether you’re building a CRM, a reporting dashboard, or a custom workflow, Grist adapts to your vision without locking you into someone else’s structure.
The spreadsheet that doesn’t box you in.
Spreadsheets have powered business workflows for decades. Smartsheet helped bring project management into that familiar grid. Grist goes a step further, merging spreadsheet simplicity with the power of a database, suitable for all business functions.
If you’re evaluating which tool suits your team’s needs, here’s how the two platforms compare when it comes to data structure, collaboration, customization, and control.
Find your ideal solution
Where Smartsheet Shines
Project management with built-in tools like Gantt charts, critical paths, and resource tracking.
Combines a spreadsheet interface with layered project management features for operational teams.
PMOs managing complex portfolios with editable rollup reports, dashboards, and cross-project visibility.
Where Grist Shines
Relational database structure for clean and secure ingestion with higher row limits.
Fine-grained access permissions with full security and ownership of your data
Deep customization and integration into unique workflows. Best-in-class flexibility with custom widget support.
Smartsheet vs Grist for data management
| 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). |
Who chooses Grist over Smartsheet?
Businesses with unique processes in need of highly customizable solutions.
Enterprises handling highly sensitive data who need to host on their own servers.
Data-intensive users (analysts, technical teams) needing robust relational databases.
Users looking to try out unlimited free solutions with no lock-in.
