Airtable
Cloud collaboration platform combining the flexibility of a spreadsheet with database power
Grist
Modern relational spreadsheet combining database power with spreadsheet flexibility
Grist merges spreadsheet ease with database structure. Named columns, Python formulas, portable SQLite format, REST API, and granular access controls for teams and individuals.
Overview
What is Grist?
Grist is a hybrid database-spreadsheet platform designed for users who need more structure than traditional spreadsheets offer but want to avoid the complexity of full database systems. Columns are typed and named like database fields, yet formulas update automatically like spreadsheets. This architecture appeals to data-savvy teams, analysts, and developers managing everything from operational dashboards to collaborative workflows.
Core Capabilities
Grist supports Python formulas with the full standard library, a portable SQLite-based format for reliable backups and migration, and drag-and-drop dashboards with charts, calendar widgets, and summary tables. Incremental CSV imports prevent duplication, while native forms feed data directly into tables. Access control extends to rows, columns, and tables—ideal for multi-tenant or compliance-sensitive environments. Integration options include a REST API, webhooks, Zapier triggers, and custom widgets.
Deployment
Run grist-core as a self-hosted server via Docker, deploy grist-desktop for offline editing on Linux, macOS, or Windows, or embed grist-static in a website with no backend. Sandboxing via gVisor (Linux/Docker), native macOS sandboxing, or WebAssembly protects against untrusted documents. SSO via OIDC and SAML is built in; templates and multi-language support accelerate onboarding.
Highlights
Python formulas with full standard library and Excel function compatibility
Portable SQLite format readable by any SQLite tool, enabling confident backups
Granular access control for rows, columns, and tables with SSO integration
Drag-and-drop dashboards, incremental imports, REST API, and native forms
Pros
- Combines spreadsheet flexibility with database structure and typed columns
- Self-hostable with Docker, desktop app, or static website embedding
- Strong integration ecosystem: REST API, webhooks, Zapier, custom widgets
- Sandboxing options (gVisor, macOS native, WebAssembly) for untrusted documents
Considerations
- Steeper learning curve for users accustomed to Excel or Google Sheets
- Advanced features like audit log streaming and Grist Assistant require Enterprise
- Access control features depend on configuring SSO logins
- Azure storage backend and GristConnect not included in core distribution
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Fit guide
Great for
- Teams needing structured data with spreadsheet-style formulas and dashboards
- Self-hosted environments with compliance or intranet requirements
- Developers building integrations via REST API, webhooks, or custom widgets
- Organizations migrating from Airtable or seeking portable SQLite-based storage
Not ideal when
- Users requiring Azure-specific document storage without S3 compatibility
- Teams needing built-in audit log streaming or advanced admin controls
- Organizations dependent on the newer AI Assistant for table and dashboard generation
- Scenarios where Excel or Google Sheets conventions are non-negotiable
How teams use it
Incremental Bank Transaction Imports
Import monthly CSV exports without duplication, maintaining a cumulative financial ledger with automatic formula updates.
Multi-Tenant Operational Dashboard
Build dashboards with row-level access control so each client sees only their data, enforced by user attributes and SSO.
Offline Field Data Collection
Deploy grist-desktop on laptops for field teams to edit locally, then sync SQLite files back to a central server.
Public Data Explorer on Static Site
Embed grist-static in a website to let visitors filter and visualize datasets without provisioning backend infrastructure.
Tech snapshot
TypeScript81%
Python12%
JavaScript6%
CSS1%
Shell1%
HTML1%
Frequently asked questions
How does Grist differ from Excel or Google Sheets?
Grist columns are typed and named like database fields. Formulas use Python syntax, and the underlying storage is SQLite, making data more structured and portable.
Can I run Grist without an internet connection?
Yes. Use grist-desktop to view and edit spreadsheets locally on Linux, macOS, or Windows with no server dependency.
What sandboxing options protect against untrusted documents?
Linux and Docker support gVisor sandboxing, macOS offers native sandboxing, and all platforms including Windows can use WebAssembly-based isolation.
Does grist-core include SSO and access control?
Yes. OIDC and SAML authentication are built in, along with row, column, and table-level access rules. Configure SSO to activate these features.
How do I integrate Grist with external services?
Use the REST API for programmatic access, configure outgoing webhooks for event-driven workflows, or connect via Zapier and similar platforms.
Project at a glance
Active- Stars
- 10,449
- Watchers
- 10,449
- Forks
- 528
LicenseApache-2.0
Repo age5 years old
Last commit18 hours ago
Self-hostingSupported
Primary languageTypeScript
Last synced 12 hours ago