Smartsheet vs Jira: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Smartsheet and Jira 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:
Smartsheet
Spreadsheet-based project management for complex enterprise workflows
Best for you if:
- • Smartsheet is a work management platform with spreadsheet-like interface
- • It provides project management, automation, and collaboration features
Jira
The industry standard for software development tracking and agile workflows
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.2/10 vs 7.5/10)
- • You want to try before committing
- • Industry-standard project management for developers
- • Agile and Scrum-focused issue tracking
| At a Glance |  Smartsheet |  Jira |
|---|---|---|
Price | Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | Task Management | Task Management |
Rating | 75/100 | 82/100 |
| Feature | Smartsheet | Jira |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Paid | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 75 | 82 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Task ManagementProject Tracking | Task ManagementWorkflow Automation |
How Smartsheet and Jira Compare
Smartsheet
Spreadsheet-based project management for complex enterprise workflows
Paid · 75/100 score
Jira
The industry standard for software development tracking and agile workflows
Free tier available · 82/100 score
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Jira has a free tier. Smartsheet is paid only.
Go with: Jira
Want the highest-rated option?
Smartsheet: 75/100. Jira: 82/100.
Go with: Jira
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Jira
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Smartsheet is paid. Jira is freemium. Jira lets you start free.
What's your use case?
Both are task management tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
Jira scores higher: 82/100 vs 75/100.
Key Takeaways
Jira
- Higher score: 82/100 vs 75
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Smartsheet
The Bottom Line
Jira (82/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Smartsheet or Jira better?
Jira scores 82/100 in our evaluation. Smartsheet is paid and Jira is freemium.
What are Smartsheet and Jira used for?
Smartsheet: Spreadsheet-based project management for complex enterprise workflows. Jira: The industry standard for software development tracking and agile workflows.
What does Smartsheet cost vs Jira?
Smartsheet is a paid tool. Jira is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.