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Grist Analytics & Data

from $10/user/mo

About Grist

Grist merges the simplicity of spreadsheets with the power of a database. You build tables, link them together, and create custom views—all without writing SQL. It's like Airtable but with more spreadsheet-like formulas and a focus on data integrity.

What it does

Grist lets you create relational databases using a spreadsheet interface. You define columns, types, and relationships, then build forms, charts, and dashboards. It supports formulas, conditional formatting, and access controls. The AI Assistant lets you chat with your data and modify records in plain language.

Best for

  • Small teams managing inventory, projects, or CRM without a developer
  • Data analysts who want a visual layer on top of SQL databases
  • Non-profits and researchers tracking complex datasets
  • Regulated industries needing self-hosted sovereignty (e.g., manufacturing, construction, government)

Strengths

  • Open-source core with self-hosting option
  • Relational model prevents data duplication
  • Formula language similar to Excel/Google Sheets plus Python power
  • Granular access controls down to row and column level

Key features

  • Relational Tables — Link records across tables like a database, preventing data duplication.
  • Custom Formulas — Use spreadsheet-like expressions and Python for calculations.
  • Forms & Views — Build input forms and filtered views for different users.
  • Charts & Dashboards — Visualize data with dynamic charts and pivot tables.
  • AI Assistant — Chat with your data, create and modify records in plain language.
  • Access Controls — Set read/write permissions per table, row, or column.
  • Import/Export — CSV, Excel, and API integration.

Grist Pricing

Grist pricing: from $10/user/mo. Billing model: Freemium.

Free Community Edition

$0 – Open-source, self-hosted on your own server. Includes AI Formula Assistant (Legacy), custom SSO, custom domain, and branding. Individuals and qualifying organizations (under $1M annual income) may request a free activation key.

Pro

$10/user/mo ($8/user/mo annual) – Up to 100,000 records per document, 3-year snapshot history, 100 AI Assistant credits per month. 30-day free trial.

Business

$30/user/mo ($24/user/mo annual, min 5 users) – Up to 150,000 records per document, 5-year snapshot history, 2,000 AI Assistant credits per month, automations, priority email support. 30-day free trial.

Enterprise

Custom pricing (min 50 users) – Dedicated server, custom SSO, custom domain, custom branding, admin controls, audit log streaming, multiple team sites, Grist Training Workshop, priority email support, SLAs.

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Frequently asked questions

Is Grist free to use?
Yes, Grist offers a free open-source Community Edition you can self-host. Individuals and organizations with less than $1M in annual income may request a free activation key. There is also a 30-day free trial for Pro and Business plans.
How much does Grist cost?
Grist Pro is $10/user/mo (or $8/user/mo billed annually). Business is $30/user/mo (or $24/user/mo annually, minimum 5 users). Enterprise pricing is custom. A free Community Edition is also available.
What is Grist best for?
Grist is best for small to medium teams that need a relational database with a spreadsheet interface—ideal for inventory, project management, CRM, KPI tracking, and data-heavy workflows in industries like manufacturing, construction, and non-profits.
Can I self-host Grist?
Yes, Grist offers a self-hosted Community Edition (free, open-source) and paid self-hosted plans (Pro, Business, Enterprise). You can run it on your own infrastructure or cloud platform (AWS, Azure, Unraid, Cloudron, Proxmox).
What are the top alternatives to Grist?
Popular alternatives include Airtable (more collaboration features, higher price), NocoDB (open-source with similar concept), and SeaTable. Grist is unique for its Excel-like formulas, Python integration, and granular row/column-level access controls.
Does Grist have a mobile app?
The scraped website context does not mention a mobile app. Grist is primarily a web application that works on desktop browsers. Mobile access may be limited to browser-based use.
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