Project management · Head to head
Basecamp vs Smartsheet: which is better?
Short answer
Basecamp costs less in the first year ($348 vs $540 for 5 users). Pick Basecamp for small teams wanting simple project hub; pick Smartsheet for spreadsheet-style project and portfolio work.
| Fact | Basecamp | Smartsheet | Edge |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best for | Small teams wanting simple project hub | Spreadsheet-style project and portfolio work | — |
| Free plan | Yes, 1 project | No | Basecamp |
| Entry plan | Freelancer: $29 / mo | Pro: $9 / seat / mo | — |
| Mid plan | Pro: $79 / mo | Business: $19 / seat / mo | — |
| Top plan | Pro Unlimited: $199 / mo | Business: $19 / seat / mo | — |
| 1st year, 5 users | $348 | $540 | Basecamp |
| Platforms | Web | Web | Tie |
Edge = the better published number or limit; we do not test the tools hands-on.
Which has the better free plan, Basecamp or Smartsheet?
Basecamp: Yes, 1 project.
Should you pick Basecamp or Smartsheet?
Pick Basecamp if
- you want small teams wanting simple project hub
- the free plan is enough (1 project)
Pick Smartsheet if
- you want spreadsheet-style project and portfolio work
- you can pay $9 / seat / mo from day one
Sources
| Vendor page | URL | Checked |
|---|---|---|
| Basecamp pricing | basecamp.com/pricing | 27 Oct 2026 |
| Smartsheet pricing | smartsheet.com/pricing | 27 Oct 2026 |
Prices in USD as published by each vendor, billed yearly where offered. How we compare