Top 10 Smartsheet alternatives for 2024

Smartsheet is a popular platform with project management and collaboration features. While Smartsheet has a lot to offer, it might not be the best choice for everyone. The platform has major drawbacks and might not be suited for your organization's specific needs.

You can check out our comprehensive guide on the top 10 alternatives for Smartsheet on this article. Continue reading this article and explore the best alternatives to smartsheet! 

Why do you need to look for a Smartsheet alternative?

Smartsheet, has been overhyped for its mediocre range of features that barely improve collaboration and organization in teams. It promises to improve collaboration and organization in teams, but sadly, it falls short.

Smartsheet's interface is cluttered and complicated

The complexity of Smartsheet is a major hurdle. Its interface is cluttered and complicated, causing frustration and confusion, especially for beginners. It’s like trying to navigate a maze without a map. Since it follows a spreadsheet format, like Excel, it can be difficult to quickly find the information you need.

Smartsheet has limited advanced project management features

Smartsheet doesn't have time tracking features and advanced resource management.

Smartsheet offers basic resource management, such as assigning tasks to team members, but it lacks advanced features such as resource allocation, capacity planning and reports on utilization rates.

It also misses detailed time tracking, including timesheets and detailed reporting on time spent across projects and team members.

Smartsheet is an expensive project management solution

The cost of this tool is another sore point. Its pricing structure is exorbitant compared to other project management tools, making it a hard pill to swallow for small businesses or startups. The Business plan is $32 per user per month, with a minimum of 3 users, which means $96 per month for the cheapest option. In addition, since Smartsheet lacks some features a project manager needs, you might need another tool. In this case, it could be interesting for you to switch to an all-in-one tool that covers all aspects of project management.

Smartsheet lacks integrations

The lack of integration is another letdown. This software struggles to connect smoothly with other popular software like Office 365. It’s like trying to fit a square peg in a round hole.

1. Bonsai

Picture this: running a service business with absolute ease and confidence. Imagine having a single platform that caters to all your needs and tackles all your challenges. Envision achieving more with less effort and time. Sounds like a dream, right? Well, with Bonsai - the ultimate Smartsheet alternative for service businesses - this dream can become a reality!

1. Unified Project Management: Bonsai provides an integrated solution to manage tasks, budgets, time tracking and resources, reducing the need for multiple platforms. Unlike Smartsheet, which focuses more on spreadsheet-based project planning and team collaboration, Bonsai provides an all-in-one platform that goes beyond conventional project management tools.

2. Effective Time Tracking: Bonsai has an intuitive time tracker, which allows businesses to track the time spent on each project or task accurately. It even allows setting timers for individual tasks and auto-generate timesheets.

3. Automated Billing and Payments: Bonsai provides automated invoicing and secure payment processing tools, easing the billing process and ensuring timely payments for service businesses. This functionality eliminates the need for manual invoicing and tracking payments and helps businesses get paid faster and more consistently.

4. Robust Client Management: Bonsai offers robust client management features, enabling businesses to keep track of their client information and communication in one place. This system aids in project planning and helps retain customer satisfaction by providing personalized services.

5. In-Depth Reporting: Bonsai's reporting feature facilitates the monitoring of each element of the project, providing businesses with the statistics and insights they need to make informed decisions. From tracking project progress to monitoring team performance, it provides comprehensive reports to help gain an understanding of how well the team and business are performing.

In conclusion, Bonsai is a viable Smartsheet alternative that offers a comprehensive approach to managing service businesses. It takes the hassle out of project management, time tracking, invoicing, and payments, while providing the necessary tools to manage clients effectively and gain valuable insights through detailed reporting. For service businesses looking for a comprehensive software solution, Bonsai is a must-consider option.

2. Trello

Now, let’s talk about Trello. It’s a popular project management tool that lets you organize tasks, projects, and more in a flexible and visual way.

Best features:

• Flexible organization with easy-to-use boards, lists, and cards
• Automation with Butler to reduce repetitive tasks
• Powerful integration capabilities with apps like Slack, Google Drive etc.
• Mobile syncing for on-the-go productivity

Limitations:

• Lacks in-built reporting and analytics features
• Complex projects may be difficult to manage due to its simple design
• Limited customization options for the free version

Not a fit for:

• Large businesses with complex project requirements

Pricing:

• Free version available, Business Class at $9.99 per month, and Enterprise for larger teams on quote basis

Reviews and ratings: Highly rated for its simplicity and ease of use (source).

3. Projectmanager

From the domain name, you can guess the main task of the projectmanager.com tool, right? Yes, you guessed it right! Projectmanager.com is a cool handy project management tool and it enables teams to collaborate effectively and complete tasks successfully.

Best Features:

• Comprehensive Gantt charts for detailed project planning.
• Real-time dashboards that provide immediate project insights and updates.
• Robust task management with customizable workflows.
• Integration capabilities with various popular apps and tools.

Limitations:

• Limited advanced features such as automated invoicing and expense tracking.
• Can be complex for new users to fully utilize all features.
• Performance can be slower with very large projects and data sets.

Not a Fit For:

• Freelancers and small businesses needing simple invoicing and time tracking.
• Teams that require highly detailed customization and simplicity.

Pricing:

• Personal Plan: $15 per user/month for small teams.
• Team Plan: $20 per user/month for medium-sized teams.
• Business Plan: $25 per user/month with advanced features for larger teams.

Reviews and Ratings:

• Generally positive reviews for robust planning and tracking features, but some criticisms for complexity and performance issues with large projects. A strong alternative to Smartsheet for teams seeking detailed project planning tools.

4. Asana

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Asana is an amazing and comprehensive project management tool. This application is all about boosting team collaboration and work management. Here’s what you can do with Asana:

Asana shines with these features:

• Project Visualization: Visualize your tasks and deadlines in a comprehensive project timeline.
• Task Dependencies: Prioritize tasks effortlessly, showing which tasks are reliant on others.
• Integration: Easily integrates with numerous applications, including Slack, Google Drive, and Microsoft Outlook.
• Customizable Dashboards: Gain at-a-glance insight into projects with customizable dashboard.

Limitations:

However, it has its limitations:

• Learning Curve: As extensive as its features are, it might take some time to fully understand them.
• Expensive for Large Teams: Subscription costs can become high for larger organizations.

Not a fit for:

Smartsheet users who want direct budget management or financial capabilities integrated with project management may find Asana lacking.

Pricing:

Asana offers a free basic version, premium and business plans that start at $10.99 per user, per month.

Reviews and ratings:

Asana has high ratings for usability and customer service with a score of 4.3 out of 5 in Capterra.

5. Microsoft Project

Have you ever given Microsoft Project a whirl? It’s this super powerful project management software that’s got your back when it comes to complex tasks.

Best Features:

• Offers Gantt chart capability for visual project timelines.
• Integration with other Microsoft Office software, enhancing functionality and ease of use.
• Advanced reporting features to thoroughly analyze project data.
• Collaboration tools to improve task coordination and communication among team members.

Limitations:

• Microsoft Project has a steep learning curve, making it time-consuming for beginners to get acquainted.
• Does not offer a free version like some project management tools do.
• Issues with flexibility and adaptability to changes.

Not a fit for:

‍Small businesses or startups due to the high cost and complex functionality.

‍Pricing:

‍Microsoft Project's starting price is $10.00 per user/month.

‍Reviews and ratings:

‍According to g2.com, it has 4 out of 5 stars based on user reviews, with usability and flexibility often being points of criticism compared to options like Smartsheet.

6. Monday

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Do you know what Monday.com is? Monday.com is a popular project management tool that’s all about offering diverse features for all types of teams.

Best Features:

• Intuitive interface and customizable workflows to fit unique project needs.
• Easy collaboration with provision for real-time comments, mentions and file sharing.
• Built-in automation and integration with popular tools.
• Advanced reporting and data visualisation tools.

Limitations:

• Limited free version with basic functionalities, compelling businesses to upgrade to access better features.
• Potential steep learning curve due to extensive features.

Not a fit for:

‍Small businesses or startups on a tight budget due to its relatively higher pricing scheme.

‍Pricing:‍

Monday.com offers four pricing tiers: Individual (free), Basic ($8/user/month), Standard ($10/user/month) and Pro ($16/user/month).

‍Reviews and Ratings:

• Average rating of 4.6/5 on G2
• Popular among users for its wide range of features, although with common criticisms revolving around its price point when compared to other alternatives such as Smartsheet.

7. Zoho Projects

Zoho Projects is a project management tool that you might enjoy using. It’s a versatile tool that has a lot of features that can help you with different kinds of projects.

Best features:

• Provides time tracking and task automation features
• Issues management attribute helps monitor and rectify any internal issues in real time
• Sophisticated reporting options
• Third-party integrations with Google and Microsoft apps

Limitations:

However, Zoho Projects has its shortcomings:

• Its interface isn't very user-friendly
• Lacks advanced financial management tools
• Slow customer service responses
• Document management system isn't as robust as other solutions

Not a fit for:

Zoho Projects may not suit businesses needing comprehensive financial tools.

Pricing:

Though it offers a free plan, Zoho Projects' paid plans start from $3/user per month.

Reviews and ratings:

Despite some limitations, it has good ratings with its reporting and time-tracking features being favored over Smartsheet.

8. Basecamp

This project management tool helps you collaborate with your team while planning and running projects.

Best Features:

• One hub location for all discussions, files, and tasks.
• Real-time tracking of project status and updates.
• Automated check-ins, toftens the need for status meetings.
• Integration ability with various apps and tools.

Limitations:

• Scarcity in advanced features like time tracking and invoicing.
• Lack of detailed reports for project insights.
• May not be fully suitable for large-scale projects.

Not a Fit For:

• Companies requiring advanced task management tools
• Teams that need detailed reporting

Pricing:

• Basecamp Personal: Free option for small teams.
• Basecamp Business: $99 per month, unlimited users with advanced features.

Reviews and Ratings:

‍Strong reviews for easy usage, but criticisms for lack of complex tools. An excellent Smartsheet alternative.

9. Wrike

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Wrike is a project management tool that can help you and your team work faster and better. It lets you manage any kind of project, customize your dashboards, manage your resources and workload, and even connect with other tools like Google Docs, Dropbox, or Salesforce. It’s like having a personal assistant for your projects!

But hey, nobody’s perfect, right? Wrike can be a bit tricky to learn, especially if you’re new to it. And if you’re a small team or working on a simple project, or if you’re on a tight budget, Wrike might not be the best fit for you.

Best features:

• Offers a visual timeline (Gantt Chart) for project planning and scheduling.
• Provides robust work management with task tracking and prioritization.
• Feature-rich mobile app for on-the-go task management.
• Integration with popular applications like Google Apps, Slack, and Salesforce.

Limitations:

• Lack of an in-built chat tool for real-time communication.
• File management system is not as organized as it could be.
• Relatively steep learning curve for new users.

Not a fit for:

‍Small businesses or freelancers might find Wrike too feature-rich and complex.

‍Pricing:

‍Free for up to 5 users, then tiers up starting from $9.80 per user/month.

‍Reviews and ratings:

‍Wrike has an overall positive rating of 4.2 out of 5 on G2.

10. Clickup

ClickUp encompasses a plethora of advanced features for efficacious team collaboration.

Best Features:

• Comprehensive task management with customizable views (lists, boards, calendars).
• Time tracking and goal-setting capabilities.
• Robust integrations with numerous apps and tools.
• Advanced automation features to streamline workflows.

Limitations:

• Can be overwhelming for new users due to its extensive features.
• Some users report occasional performance issues with large data sets.
• Steeper learning curve compared to more simplified tools.

Not a Fit For:

• Users seeking a very simple, straightforward project management solution.
• Teams that prioritize ease of use over extensive customization.

Pricing:

• Free Forever: Basic features suitable for individuals and small teams.
• Unlimited Plan: $5 per user/month with advanced features for growing teams.
• Business Plan: $12 per user/month with additional features for larger teams.

Reviews and Ratings:

• Strong reviews for its flexibility and feature-rich platform, but criticisms for its complexity and learning curve. A good alternative to Smartsheet for users needing a highly customizable project management tool.

Try Bonsai, the best Smartsheet alternative

Bonsai is an excellent Smarsheet alternative, especially for agencies, consultancies and small business owners seeking a comprehensive project management solution. Bonsai offers advanced task management, detailed time tracking, seamless client invoicing, all within an intuitive interface. Using an all-in-one platform to manage your projects, clients, team and finances in one place will boost your business productivity!

Sign up with Bonsai today and take your business to the next level!

Frequently asked questions

1. What are the top alternatives to Smartsheet?

Some of the top alternatives include Bonsai, Asana, and ClickUp. Bonsai stands out as a great choice for agencies and professional service providers, offering robust features for project management, client invoicing, and contract management. Asana excels in versatile task and project management, while ClickUp provides comprehensive tools for teams of all sizes. Choosing among these alternatives depends on specific needs and preferences, as each offers unique strengths in managing projects and workflows.

2. Which Smartsheet alternative is best for agencies and small businesses?

Bonsai is particularly well-suited for agencies and small businesses due to its comprehensive suite of tools designed to streamline workflow, manage client relationships, and handle project finances.

3. Are there free alternatives to Smartsheet?

Yes, several Smartsheet alternatives offer free plans, including ClickUp, Trello, and Monday.com, which provide essential features suitable for individuals and small teams.

4. Which alternative offers the best time tracking features?

Bonsai and ClickUp are known for their robust time tracking capabilities, making them excellent choices for teams that need detailed time management.

5. What is the most user-friendly Smartsheet alternative?

Bonsai offers an intuitive and streamlined interface that is easy to navigate, especially for agencies, professional service providers and small business owners.

6. How do the pricing plans compare to Smartsheet?

Pricing varies across alternatives. Many, like Bonsai and ClickUp, offer competitive pricing with more affordable plans than Smartsheet, providing comprehensive features without breaking the bank.