Smartsheet vs Wrike

Both Smartsheet and Wrike serve mid-size to enterprise teams at a similar complexity level, but they're built around different work styles. Smartsheet leans on a familiar spreadsheet grid for program management, while Wrike centers on custom workflows and built-in proofing for review-heavy collaborative work, with a free tier Smartsheet doesn't offer.

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SmartsheetWrike
CategoryProject ManagementProject Management
Best forPMOs managing large, data-heavy programs who want a spreadsheet-like feelMarketing agencies and professional services teams that need approvals and custom workflows
Free planNoYes
Paid plans from€8 per member / month (Pro)$10 per user / month (Team)
Platform
DeploymentCloudCloud
Team sizeMid-size, Large, EnterpriseSmall team, Mid-size, Large, Enterprise
ApproachSpreadsheet-style grids with Gantt, automations, and dashboardsCustom workflows with Gantt charts and built-in proofing
Learning curveMediumMedium
AI featuresYesYes
IntegrationsSlack, Google Workspace, Microsoft 365, Microsoft Teams, SalesforceSlack, Google Workspace, Microsoft 365, Salesforce, GitHub
Strengths
  • Familiar spreadsheet UI
  • Strong enterprise features
  • Good for program management
  • Solid free tier
  • Built-in proofing
  • Custom workflows

Smartsheet vs Wrike 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 →

Wrike

  • Free$0
  • Team$10 per user / monthBilled annually, 2 to 15 users
  • Business$25 per user / monthBilled annually, 5 to 200 users
  • PinnacleCustom contact sales
  • ApexCustom contact sales

Prices in USD, checked October 2026. Prices exclude VAT and local taxes unless stated. See current Wrike pricing →

Strengths and trade-offs

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.

Wrike

Where it stands out

Its built-in proofing and custom workflow tools make it attractive for teams whose work involves client or stakeholder sign-off.

Trade-off to know

The interface can feel dated next to newer tools, and the more advanced features require higher-priced tiers.

Which one fits your team?

Choose Smartsheet if…

  • You want the comfort of a spreadsheet-like grid with enterprise PM power layered underneath
  • Your organization runs large, data-heavy programs where a spreadsheet mental model fits how your PMO already thinks
See full Smartsheet review →

Choose Wrike if…

  • Your work involves client or stakeholder sign-off, and built-in proofing and approval workflows matter to you
  • You want to start on a solid free tier rather than commit to a paid-only enterprise tool
See full Wrike review →

FAQ

What is the main difference between Smartsheet and Wrike?

Both Smartsheet and Wrike serve mid-size to enterprise teams at a similar complexity level, but they're built around different work styles. Smartsheet leans on a familiar spreadsheet grid for program management, while Wrike centers on custom workflows and built-in proofing for review-heavy collaborative work, with a free tier Smartsheet doesn't offer.

Do Smartsheet and Wrike have a free plan?

Wrike offers a free plan; Smartsheet doesn't, though a trial is usually available.

How much do Smartsheet and Wrike cost?

Smartsheet's paid plans start at €8 per member / month (Pro), while Wrike's start at $10 per user / month (Team). 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?

Smartsheet fits pMOs managing large, data-heavy programs who want a spreadsheet-like feel. Wrike fits marketing agencies and professional services teams that need approvals and custom workflows.

Reviewed by the PM Help Tools team · Last updated · How we review tools