Free, open-source alternatives to Smartsheet
Spreadsheet-style work management. 4 apps you can run yourself instead of Smartsheet, sorted by how well they replace it. Each one is open source, so your data stays with you.
GristBest match
Next-generation spreadsheet with relational structure, formula-based access control, and a portable, self-contained format (alternative to Airtable).
NocoDB
No-code platform that turns any database into a smart spreadsheet (alternative to Airtable and Smartsheet).
Baserow
Create your own database without technical experience (alternative to Airtable).
OpenProject
Manage your projects, tasks and goals. Collaborate via work packages and link them to your pull requests on Github.
Side by side
| App | Stars | License | Activity | Runs on |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Grist | 11,944 | Apache-2.0 | Node.js, Python, Docker | |
| NocoDB | 65,256 | SUL-1.0 | Node.js, Docker | |
| Baserow | 2,265 | MIT | Docker | |
| OpenProject | 16,400 | GPL-3.0 | Ruby, Debian packages, Docker |
Why replace Smartsheet?
Smartsheet works, but your data lives in someone else's account, the price can change at any time, and features can disappear. An open-source app you run yourself is yours: you choose where it runs, who can see the data, and when to update.
Questions
What is the best free alternative to Smartsheet?
Grist is the closest open-source replacement for Smartsheet in our list. NocoDB and Baserow are worth a look too, depending on what you need.
Can I self-host an alternative to Smartsheet?
Yes. All 4 apps on this page are open source and can run on your own server, usually with Docker, or on a managed host that installs them for you.