Grist Spreadsheet vs NocoDB: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Grist Spreadsheet and NocoDB comes down to understanding what each tool does best. This comparison breaks down the key differences so you can make an informed decision based on your specific needs, not marketing claims.
By Toolradar Team · Last updated February 28, 2026 · Methodology
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Grist Spreadsheet
The collaborative spreadsheet that minds its business, building relational data apps that feel like a spreadsheet.
Best for you if:
- • You need database builders features specifically
- • Combines spreadsheet familiarity with relational database power.
- • Offers AI assistance, Python-powered formulas, and granular access controls.
NocoDB
Open-source Airtable alternative
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.4/10 vs 0.0/10)
- • You need app builders features specifically
- • Open-source Airtable alternative
- • Self-host your data
| At a Glance |  Grist Spreadsheet |  NocoDB |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | Database Builders | App Builders |
Rating | —/100 | 84/100 |
| Feature | Grist Spreadsheet | NocoDB |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | — | 84 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Database BuildersInternal Tools | App BuildersDatabase Builders |
How Grist Spreadsheet and NocoDB Compare
Grist Spreadsheet
The collaborative spreadsheet that minds its business, building relational data apps that feel like a spreadsheet.
Free tier available
NocoDB
Open-source Airtable alternative
Free tier available · 84/100 score
Grist Spreadsheet is a database builders tool. NocoDB is in app builders.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are freemium. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Grist Spreadsheet
Want the highest-rated option?
NocoDB scores 84/100. Grist Spreadsheet is unrated.
Go with: NocoDB
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: NocoDB
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Both are freemium. Pricing won't help you decide here.
What's your use case?
Grist Spreadsheet is a database builders tool. NocoDB is in app builders. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Not all tools have been rated yet.
Key Takeaways
NocoDB
- Higher score: 84/100 vs unrated
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Grist Spreadsheet
- Better fit for database builders
The Bottom Line
NocoDB (84/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Grist Spreadsheet or NocoDB better?
NocoDB scores 84/100 in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are Grist Spreadsheet and NocoDB used for?
Grist Spreadsheet: The collaborative spreadsheet that minds its business, building relational data apps that feel like a spreadsheet.. NocoDB: Open-source Airtable alternative.
What does Grist Spreadsheet cost vs NocoDB?
Grist Spreadsheet is freemium (free tier + paid plans). NocoDB is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.