Comparison · Low-code database tools

Baserow vs Notion: which is better in 2026?

Baserow ranks higher in our list of low-code database tools (#2 against #4, score 89.0 against 85.5).

  • 89.0
    Editorial score
    85.5
  • 2
    Platforms
    5
  • Yes
    Free to use
    Yes
  • Yes
    Open source
    No

Which should you choose?

Choose Baserow if you want

Self-hosted no-code databases with a hosted option.

Open source core under MIT, a free forever plan and a Docker install for self-hosting. Unlike Airtable and Knack, it can run on your own server, and premium features sit outside the MIT core.

Choose Notion if you want

Notes and lightweight tracking in one workspace.

Pages and databases in one workspace, which is easier to start with than a database builder. Its app building is shallower than Airtable's, and paid plans charge per member.

The main differences

  • Only Notion runs on Windows.
  • Only Notion runs on macOS.
  • Only Notion runs on iOS.
  • Only Notion runs on Android.
  • Baserow is open source; Notion is not.

Side by side

BaserowNotion
Score89.085.5
Rank in list#2 of 6#4 of 6
PriceFree plan, paid upgradesFree forever; paid tiers add features as teams growFree plan, paid upgradesFree plan for individuals; paid plans charge per member
Free to useYesYes
Open sourceYesNo
PlatformsWebSelf-hostedWeb, Self-hostedWebmacOSWindowsiOSAndroidWeb, macOS, Windows, iOS, Android
Made byBaserow B.V.Notion Labs, Inc.
Interface builderApplication BuilderDatabases and pages
Self-hosting optionYesNo
Billing basisFree forever, paid tiersPer member
Best forSelf-hosted no-code databases with a hosted optionNotes and lightweight tracking in one workspace
Strengths
  • Open source core under MIT with a Docker install
  • Application Builder for apps on top of tables
  • Pages, databases and tasks share one workspace
  • Free plan covers personal use
Limits
  • Premium and enterprise features are outside the MIT core
  • Self-hosting means running your own server
  • Notes are stored on Notion's servers
  • Paid plans are priced per member
LinksVisit site Visit site

Questions about Baserow vs Notion

Is Baserow better than Notion?
Baserow ranks higher in our list of low-code database tools (#2 against #4, score 89.0 against 85.5). Baserow is best for: self-hosted no-code databases with a hosted option. Notion is best for: notes and lightweight tracking in one workspace.
Which is cheaper, Baserow or Notion?
Baserow: Free forever; paid tiers add features as teams grow. Notion: Free plan for individuals; paid plans charge per member.
Do Baserow and Notion run on the same platforms?
Baserow supports Web, Self-hosted. Notion supports Web, macOS, Windows, iOS, Android.