SmartSuite vs. Airtable: Which No-Code Tool Is Better?

Choosing between SmartSuite and Airtable comes down to understanding what each platform does best—and whether either one actually gets you to your end goal.

Adalo is a no-code app builder for database-driven web apps and native iOS and Android apps—one version across all three platforms, published to the Apple App Store and Google Play. SmartSuite is a business management platform focused on internal workflows and data visualization. Airtable is a flexible database and backend builder that organizes relational data and powers automations.

The right choice depends on what success looks like for you. If you need to launch an MVP fast, reach the widest audience possible, and leverage push notifications through the app stores, you'll want a tool built for that outcome. But if your focus is purely on internal data management or backend organization, the comparison below breaks down where SmartSuite and Airtable each shine.

Wondering how SmartSuite differs from Airtable? SmartSuite and Airtable are both data management and visualization tools. However, Airtable is more known for its robust database and backend-building capabilities.

Plus, Airtable's starter version is double the price of SmartSuite's, so you may not need those pricey features.

In this article, we'll cover the following:

• Key differences
• Overview, features, and pricing
• Which is right for you? 
• Choosing a no-code app builder as an alternative

Let's now shift our attention to a simple comparison of SmartSuite vs. Airtable.

SmartSuite vs. Airtable: The Main Differences

Similarities

Both Airtable and SmartSuite are two no-code tools with some key commonalities:

• No-code ease: You won't need coding or technical skills to use SmartSuite and Airtable. Both platforms leverage the power of no-code, which features a straightforward editor similar to using a program like Excel. This means nearly anyone on your team can use either platform without much fuss.

• Organize business data: Both platforms provide a place to store and manage crucial info for your company, like financials, human resource data, client history, and much more. They offer a one-stop shop, so you won't need to shuffle through several programs.   

• Heaps of templates: Instead of building your business tool from scratch, Airtable and SmartSuite both provide over 100 templates with premade components that complement your specific needs. No matter what type of solution you wish to build, be it project management, CRM, inventory management, and more, SmartSuite and Airtable probably have you covered. 

• Integrations galore: Need to transfer data from another third-party app, such as QuickBooks, Slack, or Zapier? Airtable and SmartSuite come with dozens of integrations to third-party tools, helping ensure that you can grab all the essential info you need so your business tool hums like a well-oiled machine.    

SmartSuite

Who It's Good For

No matter what your industry, SmartSuite has a solution. It's a business management software that lets you build solutions for nearly any use case. If you're bogged down by repetitive workflows, a constant influx of difficult-to-manage data, or redundant tasks, SmartSuite can help. 

‍Features 

• Automate workflows in each solution (SmartSuite-speak for template) with the simple push of a button so you can cut out repetitive tasks and allow your team to focus on more important work.   
• Integrate your pre-existing Google Sheets or Excel database in just a few clicks. Then, animate your data with SmartSuite's enormous selection of visualization tools, like Gantt charts, dashboards, Kanban views, and many others. 
• SmartSuite is your huckleberry if sensitive data needs to be locked down. You'll get access to advanced security features like 2-factor authentication, SOC Type 2 and HIPAA compliance, and other features to keep those pesky black hatters out. 

Pricing 

SmartSuite pricing starts at $12/month per user (billed monthly) and allows unlimited solutions with 5,000 rows of data each. The $28/month per user (billed monthly) provides 50,000 rows of data per solution and offers better visualization tools, like Gantt charts, and the ability to grant permissions.

Want to check out more SmartSuite alternatives? Check out our detailed reviews.

Airtable 

Who It's Good For

Airtable is more than just business-process software: It's an intuitive backend and database builder that businesses from almost any industry can use to build relational databases. These are groups of data you can link together, allowing you to manipulate your data in any way you see fit.

Plus, Airtable made our top list of no-code tools and app builders, so it's a tool we're very familiar with.

Features 

• You can create unlimited bases (databases). No matter how much data you need to organize and synthesize, you can do it in Airtable. Then, automate how your data interacts with other databases, or you can automate data transfer from a third-party app to your Airtable bases. 
• Airtable allows for more customization than SmartSuite, enabling you to add your logo. This ensures that you maintain a consistent, professional-looking backend. 
• Want to create an app that users can access on the web or download to their phones from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store using your Airtable backend? Airtable integrates with popular no-code app builders like Adalo, Glide, and Bubble.  

Pricing 

Get Airtable for $24/month per user, and you'll receive 50,000 records per base and 25,000 monthly automations. For $54/month per user, you'll get 125,000 records per base and a hefty 100,000 automations.

Want more Airtable alternatives? Check out the full list.

Choosing Between SmartSuite vs. Airtable

Now that you have an idea of the differences between SmartSuite and Airtable, it's time to make a decision. The following 4 points can help determine which platform best suits your needs:

• You only need simple workflow automations: While Airtable can gather information, sync it across several platforms, and perform complex task executions, SmartSuite's workflow automations are much more straightforward. For instance, if you only need to send follow-up emails after invoicing, you might want to consider SmartSuite.
• You need to sync several data sources: If you have several databases and need to connect them to create automations and workflows for several tasks, go with Airtable. The platform is designed to make a database and simultaneously build your own backend logic.
• You want to connect your database to a frontend: Looking to build an actual app that users can interact with, like a booking app for your restaurant or a portal where clients can check up on their accounts? You'll need to go with Airtable, as SmartSuite only supports internal tool building.

Because Airtable provides a free version and SmartSuite offers a limited 14-day free trial, we recommend you give both platforms a test run. However, you should first jot down the functionalities you're looking for (automations, visualizations, etc.) and the components you want to create.

After you try out each one, note a few pros and cons, and pick the one that meshes with your learning style the best — you're ultimately selecting a tool that you will potentially use for years, so your level of comfort toward the platform is paramount. Happy testing!

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Next Steps: Adalo, a Simple App Builder 

Still thinking about creating a frontend to transform your Airtable backend into a proper app? Go with Adalo.

Adalo is an insanely simple no-code native mobile app builder that uses a drag-and-drop interface, not line after line of code, to create a professional-looking and gorgeous app. Adalo is a no-code app builder for database-driven web apps and native iOS and Android apps—one version across all three platforms. AI-assisted building and streamlined publishing enable launch to the Apple App Store and Google Play in days rather than months. You won't need any tech skills to use Adalo — it's intuitive enough to use right out of the box.

Select from Adalo's library of nearly 40 templates and customize your app's colors, structure, and functionalities to meet your needs. You can integrate your Airtable backend with just a few clicks and create a very powerful finished product.

Your app's users can find it on their browsers using a simple web search, the Apple App Store, or the Google Play Store. So, when choosing between SmartSuite vs. Airtable, consider Adalo as a complementary tool. Try out Adalo today for free and start creating your own app.

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