| Microsoft Project | Smartsheet | |
|---|---|---|
| Category | Project Management | Project Management |
| Best for | Enterprise PMOs running complex, resource-heavy programs inside Microsoft 365 | PMOs managing large, data-heavy programs who want a spreadsheet-like feel |
| Free plan | No | No |
| Paid plans from | $679.99 one-time purchase (Project Standard 2024) | €8 per member / month (Pro) |
| Platform | ||
| Deployment | Cloud, Self-hosted | Cloud |
| Team size | Enterprise | Mid-size, Large, Enterprise |
| Approach | Advanced Gantt scheduling with resource leveling | Spreadsheet-style grids with Gantt, automations, and dashboards |
| Learning curve | High | Medium |
| AI features | Yes | Yes |
| Integrations | Microsoft 365, Microsoft Teams | Slack, Google Workspace, Microsoft 365, Microsoft Teams, Salesforce |
| Strengths |
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Microsoft Project vs Smartsheet pricing
Microsoft Project
- Project Standard 2024$679.99 one-time purchaseOn-premises, desktop license
- Project Professional 2024$1,129.99 one-time purchaseOn-premises, desktop license
- Project Server Subscription EditionCustom through a Microsoft partnerCustomer-managed, on-premises
Prices in USD, checked October 2026. Prices exclude VAT and local taxes unless stated. See current Microsoft Project pricing →
Smartsheet
- Pro€8 per member / monthBilled yearly, 1 to 10 members
- Business€17 per member / monthBilled yearly, 3+ members
- EnterpriseCustom contact sales10+ members
- Advanced Work ManagementCustom contact sales
Prices in EUR, checked October 2026. Prices exclude VAT and local taxes unless stated. See current Smartsheet pricing →
Strengths and trade-offs
Microsoft Project
Where it stands out
Its scheduling depth and deep Microsoft 365 integration make it attractive for organizations that need industry-standard rigor and reporting.
Trade-off to know
It's expensive, carries a steep learning curve, and its heritage as desktop software still shows.
Smartsheet
Where it stands out
Its familiar grid-based UI makes it attractive for teams that already think in spreadsheets but need more structure and automation.
Trade-off to know
There's no free plan, and the interface can feel less intuitive than newer, more visual alternatives.
Which one fits your team?
Choose Microsoft Project if…
- You need industry-standard scheduling depth — resource leveling, critical path — for complex programs
- Your organization already runs deeply on Microsoft 365
Choose Smartsheet if…
- You want enterprise PM power without Microsoft Project's steep learning curve
- Your team collaborates more easily in a spreadsheet-style, cloud-native tool
FAQ
What is the main difference between Microsoft Project and Smartsheet?
Both are built for enterprise-scale scheduling, but Microsoft Project is the deeper, more traditional scheduling tool with resource leveling and critical-path analysis; Smartsheet trades some of that depth for a friendlier, spreadsheet-style interface and easier collaboration.
Do Microsoft Project and Smartsheet have a free plan?
Neither offers a permanent free plan, but a trial is usually available.
How much do Microsoft Project and Smartsheet cost?
Microsoft Project's paid plans start at $679.99 one-time purchase (Project Standard 2024), while Smartsheet's start at €8 per member / month (Pro). Billing period, team size, and taxes affect the final price, so check each vendor's pricing page before deciding.
Who is each tool best suited for?
Microsoft Project fits enterprise PMOs running complex, resource-heavy programs inside Microsoft 365. Smartsheet fits pMOs managing large, data-heavy programs who want a spreadsheet-like feel.
Can Microsoft Project or Smartsheet be self-hosted?
Microsoft Project offers both cloud and self-hosted options; Smartsheet is cloud-only.