Grist
Databases
Relational spreadsheet with Python formulas.
Grist combines spreadsheet flexibility with relational structure and Python formulas.
Visit Grist Compare head to headWhy teams switch
The pain
Airtable: Record limits and steep plan jumps once a base gets serious.
The upgrade
- Python formulas
- Self-hostable
- Access rules
- Linked widgets
- Can run on your own servers
Trade-offs
- Self-hosting means you handle updates, backups and uptime.
- Smaller ecosystem of integrations and add-ons than Airtable.
- Fewer enterprise compliance certifications and admin controls in most cases.
Savings calculator
Team size: 25 seats
Estimated yearly savings
$4,200
$6,000 on Airtable vs $1,800 on Grist — 70% less. Prices are editable estimates.
How to migrate
From Airtable to Grist
- Export. Download each table as CSV from the view menu, and note linked fields and formulas.
- Set up Grist. Create your workspace and invite one or two people to pilot it first.
- Import. Bring your data in using Grist's import tools, starting with what your team uses daily.
- Switch over. Re-create linked records and formulas after import; attachments may need re-uploading. Then invite the rest of the team and cancel Airtable at the end of your billing period.
How it compares
| Tool | Pricing | Self-host | Best for | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Baserow | Open source | Teams needing data ownership | Spreadsheet UI · Self-hostable · API-first | |
| Grist | Freemium | Analysts and data-heavy teams | Python formulas · Self-hostable · Access rules | |
| NocoDB | Open source | Teams with existing databases | Connects existing SQL DBs · Self-hostable · REST APIs | |
| SeaTable | Freemium | European teams | GDPR-friendly · Automations · Python scripts | |
| Teable | Open source | Large datasets | Postgres native · Handles millions of rows · Real-time collaboration |