NocoDB vs Airtable: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between NocoDB and Airtable 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:
NocoDB
Open-source Airtable alternative
Best for you if:
- • Open-source Airtable alternative
- • Self-host your data
Airtable
Spreadsheet database platform
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.8/10 vs 8.4/10)
- • Spreadsheet-database hybrid for building custom apps without code
- • Free: unlimited bases, 1,000 records per base, 1GB attachments
| At a Glance |  NocoDB |  Airtable |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | App Builders | App Builders |
Rating | 84/100 | 88/100 |
| Feature | NocoDB | Airtable |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 84 | 88 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | App BuildersDatabase Builders | App BuildersInternal Tools |
How NocoDB and Airtable Compare
NocoDB
Open-source Airtable alternative
Free tier available · 84/100 score
Airtable
Spreadsheet database platform
Free tier available · 88/100 score
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are freemium. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: NocoDB
Want the highest-rated option?
NocoDB: 84/100. Airtable: 88/100.
Go with: Airtable
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Airtable
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?
Both are app builders tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
Airtable scores higher: 88/100 vs 84/100.
Key Takeaways
Airtable
- Higher score: 88/100 vs 84
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
NocoDB
The Bottom Line
Airtable (88/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is NocoDB or Airtable better?
Airtable scores 88/100 in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are NocoDB and Airtable used for?
NocoDB: Open-source Airtable alternative. Airtable: Spreadsheet database platform.
What does NocoDB cost vs Airtable?
NocoDB is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Airtable is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.