Spreadsheet

The recognized no-code spreadsheet-database hybrid — Airtable pairs a spreadsheet-like grid with a real relational database underneath (linked records, views, rollups, automations). The Free plan gives 1,000 records per base, 5 editors, 1,000 automation runs/month, and 1 GB of attachments per base, with unlimited bases. Team from ~$20/seat/mo adds 50,000 records, sync, and advanced permissions. The pick when you want a database that feels like a spreadsheet.

Bandwidth

n/a

Requests

1,000 records per base, 5 editors, 1,000 automation runs/month, 1 GB attachments per base

Paid from

$20/mo

The free spreadsheet most people already have — Google Sheets is free forever with any Google account, with unlimited spreadsheets (within the shared 15 GB Drive + Gmail + Photos storage), real-time co-editing, built-in functions, Apps Script automation, and Explore AI insights. The most universally accessible free spreadsheet and the default for collaborative work. Google One from ~$1.99/mo for 100 GB if you outgrow the free storage.

Bandwidth

n/a

Requests

Unlimited spreadsheets within 15 GB Drive storage quota, real-time collaboration

Paid from

$2/mo

The spreadsheet incumbent — Microsoft Excel for the Web is free forever with a Microsoft account (browser-only, core features, auto-save to OneDrive 5 GB), but the full desktop app with Power Query, Power Pivot, advanced charts, and add-ins needs Microsoft 365. Microsoft 365 Personal from ~$6.99/mo includes the desktop Excel + Word + PowerPoint + 1 TB OneDrive. The most powerful spreadsheet, but the desktop version is paid — free Excel for the Web is the no-cost option.

Bandwidth

n/a

Requests

Free Excel for the Web with a Microsoft account; full app on Microsoft 365

Paid from

$7/mo