SharePoint vs Smartsheet Comparison 2023: Which Is Better?

Organizing workflow and completing tasks in a streamlined fashion is the core selling point for capable project management tools. Still, they often have extended capabilities, and picking one for your business or as an individual might sometimes be challenging. 

In this SharePoint vs Smartsheet comparison, we’ll compare two top-tier project management platforms to help you choose what works best for your business.

We’ll examine critical factors like pricing and availability across devices while looking at features such as collaboration, task management, integration, workflow management, etc.

Ready? Sit back and have fun reading!

What is the difference between SharePoint and Smartsheet?

The main difference between Smartsheet and SharePoint is that Smartsheet is more of a project management and collaboration tool in a spreadsheet style. On the other hand, Microsoft SharePoint is a robust content management and intranet solution. While both solutions provide similar services, they are quite different tools.

Microsoft SharePoint is primarily a document management and collaboration platform that gives its customers access to a comprehensive suite of features that creates an enterprise content management system, which acts as a one-stop location for all the content you have. SharePoint came into existence in 2001 and has evolved over the years. 

With each review of the app, specific changes were made that eventually streamlined its function into what it is today. There is the SharePoint on-premise, the 2019 desktop version of SharePoint, and SharePoint Online, its web-based version and a part of the Microsoft Office 365 suite. Our comprehensive SharePoint review does justice to the software and could sway your choice. 

Smartsheet is a cloud-based project management and collaboration platform that assists teams in planning, tracking, automating, and reporting on their work. Smartsheet is intended to be highly adaptable and adjustable. Its user interface is comparable to a spreadsheet but far more powerful. 

Smartsheet expands on the capabilities of a spreadsheet, such as Google Sheets or Microsoft Excel, and transforms it into a comprehensive project management program. Because of its versatility, it may be used for everything from project management and task monitoring to customer relationship management (CRM) and online work collaboration. You can get more information from our Smartsheet review.

SharePoint vs Smartsheet comparison chart

Before we get into a full SharePoint vs Smartsheet comparison, let's look at how they compare in several categories.  

SharePoint vs Smartsheet pricing

Pricing remains one of the single most important factors in picking any product. No matter how stacked the features are, potential clients and customers might lose interest if the price is too high. Luckily, both SharePoint and Smartsheet have quite affordable plans.

Smartsheet offers different plans based on the number of users and the features required. It offers a free plan that allows two editors and a couple of other basic features. A pro plan costs $7 per month, a business plan costs $25 per month, and an enterprise plan is available to large companies on request.

Microsoft SharePoint does not come with a free version but has comparatively more affordable plans starting with SharePoint (Plan 1) at $5 per month, SharePoint (Plan 2) at $10, and Office 365 E3 at $23.

Winner: 

This round would have gone to Smartsheet because of its free version, but SharePoint gives it a competitive edge on a cost basis, ending in a tie. 
 

Smartsheet vs SharePoint free versions

Free versions often allow users to enjoy the basics of the software. They can upgrade to better plans for more utility if satisfied with the services provided.

Smartsheet has a free version with basic features like two editors, two sheets, 500 MB attachment storage, 100 automation per month, and other features.  

On the other hand, SharePoint does not have a free version on its site, but it offers a 30-day free trial for customers to test out the plan they want to purchase.

Winner: 

This category goes to Smartsheet as it has a free version that allows individuals without business capital to start up. 
 

Customer support

Customer support and the response of customer service reps can make or mar a brand, and these two software have quite satisfactory customer support systems.

SharePoint offers online support, email support, and 24/7 phone support.

Smartsheet offers online support, email support but slightly delayed responses, and phone support only within business hours.

Winner:

SharePoint takes this category.
 

Knowledgebase & learning

The learning curve that plagues software can be eased through resources provided by the makers or the support communities they validate.

SharePoint provides sufficient learning materials for a beginner to get acquainted with the software's working. These include training videos, a productivity library, a SharePoint development center, and more. There is also an online community where other users can proffer answers to queries from fellow users. 

Smartsheet has a similar set of learning sources and knowledge base besides the SharePoint development center, but one way Smartsheet edges ahead in this category is through its physical training sessions provided for interested learners. 

Winner: 

Smartsheet takes this category, particularly because of its physical training sessions. 

Smartsheet vs SharePoint features & functionality

We compared SharePoint with Smartsheet in numerous categories in the preceding section. We examined how the two platforms compare regarding premium plans, freemium variants, and customer support. Now, it's time to get information on their most remarkable features and functionality and compare these. 

Microsoft SharePoint or Smartsheet for ease of use?

The ease of use often determines a customer's experience and the reviews they will leave for a product. For users who are unfamiliar with the platform, SharePoint has a learning curve. While SharePoint has a familiar Microsoft Office-like interface, some users may find its many capabilities and customization possibilities daunting. 

Navigating its many menus and settings may take some time and practice. On the other hand, it provides a strong and versatile environment for collaboration and document management after users become acquainted with the platform.

Smartsheet is well-known for its simple design and ease of use. It gives the feel of a familiar spreadsheet-like interface, making it usable by users with varied degrees of technical ability. It provides simple task-management features, as well as easy drag-and-drop capability. 

Without considerable training or technical experience, users can rapidly establish and manage projects, assign tasks, and measure progress.

Winner: 

The Spreadsheet design presented by Smartsheet makes it easier for people to get into its usage. It easily takes this category. 
 

Smartsheet vs SharePoint online versions

SharePoint Online is an online version of SharePoint desktop that can be accessed using a web browser. SharePoint Online offers a variety of collaboration tools, including document sharing, team sites, and corporate content management. It effortlessly interacts with other Microsoft 365 services and enables real-time collaboration on documents and lists. 

Smartsheet's online edition allows users to access and collaborate on projects in real time through a web browser. It includes task tracking, Gantt charts, and resource management, among its many project management capabilities. The online version of Smartsheet emphasizes usability and promotes team collaboration through team workspaces and file attachments.

Winner: 

It is not often straightforward to determine the winner of this category as they both offer features that are better suited to specific audiences. This category ends as a draw. 
 

SharePoint vs Smartsheet desktop versions

Microsoft SharePoint has a desktop version for Windows and macOS. It has a wide range of capabilities for document management, collaboration, and intranet/extranet solutions. The desktop version of SharePoint enables users to create and administer team sites, exchange documents, and automate workflows. It is highly configurable and works well with other Microsoft products like the Office suite.

Smartsheet also has a desktop application for Windows and macOS. It is an effective project management and collaboration application that allows users to create, track, and manage projects using a spreadsheet-like interface. 

The desktop edition of Smartsheet includes extensive project planning capabilities, task dependencies, and automated processes. It is well-known for its simple interface and ease of usage.

Winner: 

Smartsheet takes this category as its easy-to-use interface gives it the edge over SharePoint.
 

Mobile apps

SharePoint has mobile applications for iOS and Android smartphones that allow users to access their SharePoint sites and documents while on the road. The mobile app has an easy-to-use interface for viewing and sharing files, communicating with team members, and staying current on on-site activity. It allows offline access and connects with Microsoft mobile apps like OneDrive and Teams.

Smartsheet also offers mobile apps for iOS and Android. Users may manage and follow their projects from anywhere with the mobile app, which includes features such as task management, alerts, and file attachments. It enables team members to interact in real time, monitor project dashboards, and stay up to speed on progress.

Winner: 

This category ends in a tie. 
 

Collaboration 

SharePoint helps with the improvement of team and organizational collaboration, and it is not just a workflow enhancement tool. Team sites, document co-authoring, version control, and discussion forums are among the capabilities available. 

Users may collaborate on projects and increase communication by sharing documents, calendars, and task lists with team members. It also connects to Microsoft Teams, allowing for real-time collaboration and communication via chat and video meetings.

Smartsheet promotes collaboration by offering a centralized platform for teams to collaborate on projects. It includes features such as shared workspaces, real-time changes, and comments. Within the site, team members may collaborate on assignments, track progress, and give comments. Its collaboration tools enable teams to collaborate effectively while remaining focused on project objectives.

Both solutions excel in collaboration features. SharePoint's integration with Microsoft Teams gives it an advantage for seamless communication, while Smartsheet's shared workspaces and real-time updates make it highly suitable for collaborative project management.

Winner: 

Our winner here is SharePoint as it edges out Smartsheet primarily because collaboration is a primary feature of the app. 
 

Integrations

SharePoint works with other Microsoft products and services like Microsoft Office Suite, Microsoft Teams, Power Automate, and Power BI. This connection promotes a unified workflow and increases productivity inside the Microsoft ecosystem. SharePoint also allows for third-party connections, including connectors for major apps such as Salesforce, Dropbox, and others.

Smartsheet integrates with prominent corporate technologies, including Google Drive, Microsoft Office 365, Jira, Salesforce, and Slack. Users may use these connections to link and sync data between Smartsheet and other apps, easing processes and boosting collaboration. Smartsheet's robust integration capabilities increase efficiency and allow for easy data interchange.

Winner: 

SharePoint easily takes this category, and this is primarily because of the power of its extensive integration options through Microsoft.

A note on Smartsheet SharePoint integration 

Now that we know they both have integration capabilities, is there a native SharePoint Smartsheet integration? There’s no apparent native SharePoint and Smartsheet. Rather than for smooth integration between both platforms, there’s a need for a third-party integration tool you can get on any reputable software market. 

A good recommendation is Bridge by Smartsheet which allows Smartsheet users to integrate with other platforms. 
 

Product limitations

No software is perfect, and there are flaws with each system. A common complaint about Smartsheet from customers is the delay in receiving responses when complaints are lodged or information is needed.

One of SharePoint’s major issues is the complexity of navigating the platform. Some users also complain about missing files in vast data sets, primarily due to labeling issues and issues with the search engine. 

For Smartsheet, one customer complaint is the slow downtime during maintenance and afterward. The activity log could be a bit tasking to get used to and is also quite limited. 

Winner: 

This category ends as a tie.
 

Project Management 

SharePoint and Smartsheet provide project management features, but Smartsheet is explicitly made for this function. Gantt charts, task dependencies, resource management, and automated workflows are among the capabilities available. Smartsheet's interface is similar to that of a spreadsheet, making it simple for users to enter and manage data.

While not as focused on project management, SharePoint does have task lists, project sites, and connectivity with Microsoft Projects. It allows users to establish project-specific collaborative rooms, manage documents, and measure progress. SharePoint's project management tools are better suited for enterprises requiring a more comprehensive content management solution and project tracking.

Winner: 

Smartsheet takes this category as it’s primarily a project-managing solution and not a content-management platform.
 

Smartsheet or SharePoint for Task Management

SharePoint integrates with Microsoft Lists to provide essential task management tools. Users may create and assign tasks, establish due dates, and track progress. SharePoint enables task prioritizing, classification, and alerts to keep team members current on task updates. However, SharePoint's task management features are better suited for task tracking rather than comprehensive project management.

Smartsheet specializes in task and project management. It includes a complete set of tools for generating, assigning, and tracking tasks. Smartsheet has task dependencies, Gantt charts, and resource management capabilities. 

Users may visualize their projects from several perspectives, set deadlines, and measure progress. Smartsheet's task management tools are intended to handle complicated project workflows and ease team communication.

Winner: 

Smartsheet is the preferred choice for task management. Its extensive features, including task dependencies and Gantt charts, make it well-suited for managing complex projects and tracking tasks across teams.

Is SharePoint better than Smartsheet? Key takeaways

Choosing between both options can be daunting, as SharePoint and Smartsheet are incredible software programs. You must be particular about your needs and current systems to make a solid choice. 

Going with SharePoint is the apparent option for users already working within the Microsoft ecosystem and needing a content management option, as it provides users with better workflow within the system, allowing users to share and manage content, smoother integration, and collaboration across the board. 

For users who are more concerned about workflow and are not dependent on the Microsoft ecosystem or are looking to start with something free but capable, Smartsheet is a no-brainer. 

If you are not satisfied with either option presented, you can easily conduct a Google search to find alternatives, but we have our project management software features comparison that showcases other capable options for you to choose from.