# Grist

> Apache-2.0 relational spreadsheet you can self-host

**Category:** Databases  
**Pricing:** open-source  
**URL:** https://www.getgrist.com  
**GitHub:** https://github.com/gristlabs/grist-core  
**Added:** 2026-10-18

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## The Hook

Grist is a modern relational spreadsheet: it looks like a spreadsheet but has typed columns, linked tables and Python formulas, so a sheet can grow into a small database app without leaving the grid.

## What's Good

Apache-2.0 (gristlabs/grist-core), release v1.7.21 (2026-10-09). grist-core is the self-hostable Community server; grist-desktop runs locally and grist-static renders sheets in the browser without a backend. Access rules down to row and column level, widgets for charts and forms, a REST API, and Python formulas. French government teams (ANCT, DINUM) contribute to the code. ★~12k.

## The Catch

Grist Labs sells an edition with extra features and runs free and paid hosted plans; check that the features you need are in Community. Python formulas run in a sandbox that needs extra setup for safe multi-user self-hosting. Large datasets are not its strength.

## Verdict

The open Airtable alternative with a real formula language — ideal for internal tools.