Smartsheet vs Trello: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Smartsheet and Trello 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:
- • You need task management features specifically
- • Smartsheet is a work management platform with spreadsheet-like interface
- • It provides project management, automation, and collaboration features
Trello
Visual project management
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.4/10 vs 7.5/10)
- • You want to try before committing
- • You need project tracking features specifically
- • Visual project management
- • Boards, lists, and cards
| At a Glance |  Smartsheet |  Trello |
|---|---|---|
Price | Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | Task Management | Project Tracking |
Rating | 75/100 | 84/100 |
| Feature | Smartsheet | Trello |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Paid | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 75 | 84 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Task ManagementProject Tracking | Project TrackingRoadmapping |
How Smartsheet and Trello Compare
Smartsheet
Spreadsheet-based project management for complex enterprise workflows
Paid · 75/100 score
Trello
Visual project management
Free tier available · 84/100 score
Smartsheet is a task management tool. Trello is in project tracking.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Trello has a free tier. Smartsheet is paid only.
Go with: Trello
Want the highest-rated option?
Smartsheet: 75/100. Trello: 84/100.
Go with: Trello
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Trello
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Smartsheet is paid. Trello is freemium. Trello lets you start free.
What's your use case?
Smartsheet is a task management tool. Trello is in project tracking. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Trello scores higher: 84/100 vs 75/100.
Key Takeaways
Trello
- Higher score: 84/100 vs 75
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Smartsheet
- Better fit for task management
The Bottom Line
Trello (84/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Smartsheet or Trello better?
Trello scores 84/100 in our evaluation. Smartsheet is paid and Trello is freemium.
What are Smartsheet and Trello used for?
Smartsheet: Spreadsheet-based project management for complex enterprise workflows. Trello: Visual project management.
What does Smartsheet cost vs Trello?
Smartsheet is a paid tool. Trello is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.