Comparison · Low-code database tools
Grist vs Notion: which is better in 2026?
Grist ranks higher in our list of low-code database tools (#4 against #5, score 86.0 against 85.5), but the gap is small and the better choice depends on what you need.
- 86.0Editorial score85.5
- 2Platforms5
- YesFree to useYes
- YesOpen sourceNo
Which should you choose?
Choose Grist if you want
Teams outgrowing spreadsheets without building an app.
A relational spreadsheet with an Apache-2.0 open-source core, a generous free plan and self-hosting. It suits teams that need linked tables, but its ecosystem is smaller than Airtable's.
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.
- Grist is open source; Notion is not.
Side by side
 Grist |  Notion | |
|---|---|---|
| Score | 86.0 | 85.5 |
| Rank in list | #4 of 10 | #5 of 10 |
| Price | Free plan, paid upgradesGenerous free plan; paid team and enterprise plans | Free plan, paid upgradesFree plan for individuals; paid plans charge per member |
| Free to use | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Yes | No |
| Platforms | WebSelf-hostedWeb, Self-hosted | WebmacOSWindowsiOSAndroidWeb, macOS, Windows, iOS, Android |
| Made by | Not stated | Notion Labs, Inc. |
| Interface builder | Forms, widgets and linked tables | Databases and pages |
| Self-hosting option | Yes | No |
| Billing basis | Free plan and paid team plans | Per member |
| Best for | Teams outgrowing spreadsheets without building an app | Notes and lightweight tracking in one workspace |
| Strengths |
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| Limits |
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| Links | Visit site | Visit site |
Questions about Grist vs Notion
- Is Grist better than Notion?
- Grist ranks higher in our list of low-code database tools (#4 against #5, score 86.0 against 85.5), but the gap is small and the better choice depends on what you need. Grist is best for: teams outgrowing spreadsheets without building an app. Notion is best for: notes and lightweight tracking in one workspace.
- Which is cheaper, Grist or Notion?
- Grist: Generous free plan; paid team and enterprise plans. Notion: Free plan for individuals; paid plans charge per member.
- Do Grist and Notion run on the same platforms?
- Grist supports Web, Self-hosted. Notion supports Web, macOS, Windows, iOS, Android.
Choosing between the two
Learning Center
1:17How to decide between two good optionsSettle a close call by sorting it by how hard it is to undo, setting a deadline, scoring the criteria as a tie-breaker and writing down why you chose.
1:20How to compare products fairly: what to keep in mindDefine the job, cap the must-haves, compare like with like, count total cost over one period and weigh the criteria. Includes a worked example.Read more about Grist and Notion
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