Project management · Head to head
Jira vs Smartsheet: which is better?
Short answer
Jira costs less in the first year ($508.80 vs $540 for 5 users). Pick Jira for software and agile teams; pick Smartsheet for spreadsheet-style project and portfolio work.
| Fact | Jira | Smartsheet | Edge |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best for | Software and agile teams | Spreadsheet-style project and portfolio work | — |
| Free plan | Yes, up to 10 users | No | Jira |
| Entry plan | Standard: $8.48 / seat / mo | Pro: $9 / seat / mo | Jira |
| Mid plan | Premium: $15.56 / seat / mo | Business: $19 / seat / mo | Jira |
| Top plan | Premium: $15.56 / seat / mo | Business: $19 / seat / mo | Jira |
| 1st year, 5 users | $508.80 | $540 | Jira |
| Platforms | Web | Web | Tie |
Edge = the better published number or limit; we do not test the tools hands-on.
Which is cheaper, Jira or Smartsheet?
Jira costs less in the first year ($508.80 vs $540 for 5 users).
| 1st year, 5 users | Jira | Smartsheet |
|---|---|---|
| Entry | $508.80 | $540 |
| Mid | $933.60 | $1,140 |
| Top | $933.60 | $1,140 |
Which has the better free plan, Jira or Smartsheet?
Jira: Yes, up to 10 users.
Should you pick Jira or Smartsheet?
Pick Jira if
- you want software and agile teams
- the free plan is enough (up to 10 users)
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 |
|---|---|---|
| Jira pricing | atlassian.com/software/jira/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