Smartsheet vs Grist

Side-by-side feature comparison and pricing breakdown.

Feature
Interactive Dashboards Smartsheet dashboards are read-only; Grist's are fully interactive
Python Formulas Grist uses Python; Smartsheet has proprietary formula syntax
Gantt Charts Smartsheet excels at project timeline views
Custom Layouts
Formula Syntax Smartsheet's unique syntax is hard to learn; Grist uses Python
API Access
$
Self-Hosting
Pricing
$9/mo
Free Open Source
Save 100% — Save $9/user/mo by self-hosting Grist

Verdict

Grist's interactive dashboards are a direct upgrade over Smartsheet's read-only ones, and Python formulas blow away Smartsheet's proprietary formula syntax. Smartsheet is still better for enterprise project management, but Grist is superior for data analysis workflows.

Best for: Data analysts and operations teams who need interactive dashboards with Python formula power instead of Smartsheet's rigid approach

Last updated: 2026-03-01