Databases & Spreadsheets

Alternatives to database tools like Airtable, Smartsheet, and Coda. Find open-source and affordable tools for managing structured data and spreadsheets.

Popular Databases & Spreadsheets Tools

Airtable

Spreadsheet-database hybrid for organizing and automating workflows

Free (1
  • 1,000 record limit on free plan is extremely restrictive
  • Per-seat pricing makes it expensive for teams

Smartsheet

Enterprise work management platform with spreadsheet-like interface

$9/user/mo Pro
  • UI feels old-fashioned compared to Airtable or Notion
  • Formula syntax is unique and hard to learn

Alternatives in Databases & Spreadsheets

NocoDB

Open-source Airtable alternative that turns any database into a smart spreadsheet

Open Source

Free and open-source to self-host. Cloud hosted version also available.

  • Connects to existing databases without data migration
  • Auto-generated REST APIs for every table and view
  • Grid, Kanban, Gallery, Form, and Calendar views included

Baserow

Open-source no-code database and app builder with GDPR, HIPAA, and SOC 2 compliance

Open Source

Open-source and free to self-host with no limits. Cloud plans available with 50% off for Airtable switchers.

  • No storage limits or API rate limits when self-hosted
  • Built-in automation, AI agents, and app builder
  • GDPR, HIPAA, and SOC 2 Type II compliance available

Grist

Open-source spreadsheet-database hybrid with Python formulas and interactive dashboards

Open Source

Free self-hosted with all features. Cloud free plan with generous limits for teams.

  • Python formulas with full standard library support
  • Interactive dashboards that allow direct data editing
  • Custom layouts with drag-and-drop widget placement