Simple Table vs. Handsontable
A comprehensive comparison of React data grid solutions for spreadsheet-like functionality
In the world of web-based spreadsheet applications, developers often face the choice between comprehensive enterprise solutions and lightweight alternatives. If you're building an application that requires Excel-like functionality, you'll likely encounter Handsontable, a powerful commercial data grid that promises full spreadsheet capabilities. However, many developers find themselves questioning whether they need all of Handsontable's enterprise features and whether the licensing costs are justified. This is where Simple Table presents an interesting alternative. At just 31 kB (minified + gzipped), Simple Table offers core spreadsheet-like functionality without the commercial licensing requirements or massive bundle size (247.1 kB). This comparison explores whether Simple Table can meet your spreadsheet needs without the enterprise complexity and cost of Handsontable.
This comparison guide was created with AI assistance. While we strive for accuracy, if you notice any incorrect information, please contact us so we can correct it promptly.
Feature Comparison
Free
Paid
In Development
Not Available
| Feature | Simple Table | Handsontable |
|---|---|---|
Virtualization | ||
Infinite Scroll | ||
Column Resizing | ||
Column Reordering | ||
Column Visibility | ||
Column Pinning | ||
Column Alignment | ||
Column Sorting | ||
Column Filtering | ||
Advanced Filtering | ||
Nested Headers | ||
Aggregation Functions | ||
Column Selection | ||
Collapsible Columns | ||
Column Editing | ||
Row Selection | ||
Row Grouping | ||
Adjustable Row Height | ||
Row Expansion | ||
Cell Editing | ||
Cell Highlighting | ||
Cell Clicking | ||
Custom Renderers | ||
Live Updates | ||
Cell Formatting | ||
Cell Validation | ||
Formulas | ||
Data Binding | ||
Context Menu | ||
Comments | ||
Global Search | ||
Faceted Filters | ||
Client-side Pagination | ||
Server-side Pagination | ||
Cursor-based Pagination | ||
Value Getters/Setters | ||
Cell Range Selection | ||
Pivot Tables | ||
Tree Data | ||
Row Spanning | ||
Master/Detail Views | ||
Context Menu | ||
Status Bar | ||
Column Menu | ||
Full Width Rows | ||
Advanced Tooltips | ||
Excel Export | ||
Excel Import | ||
CSV Export | ||
CSV Import | ||
Clipboard Operations | ||
Advanced Keyboard Navigation | ||
Accessibility Features | ||
Multiple Themes | ||
Custom Icons | ||
TypeScript Support | ||
Undo/Redo |
Performance Comparison
| Metric | Simple Table | Handsontable |
|---|---|---|
| Bundle Size | 31 kB (minified + gzipped) | 247.1 kB (minified + gzipped) |
Summary
📊 When to Choose Handsontable• Building complex financial modeling or accounting applications• Need full Excel formula compatibility and cell reference system• Users expect Excel-like context menus and keyboard shortcuts• Budget allows for $590+ annual licensing per developer⚡ When to Choose Simple Table• Building data-heavy applications with millions of rows• Need cell editing and basic spreadsheet interactions• Want to keep bundle size minimal (247.1 kB vs 31 kB difference)• Prefer open-source solutions without licensing restrictions
Simple Table is a lightweight, free alternative to Handsontable, offering essential features like virtualization, cell editing, and column management. It's ideal for projects that need basic spreadsheet functionality without the overhead of advanced features or commercial licensing.Handsontable is a full-featured spreadsheet component with Excel-like capabilities, including advanced formulas, cell merging, and comprehensive import/export features. However, these features come at the cost of a larger bundle size (247.1 kB minified + gzipped) and require a commercial license at $990/developer/year for production use.If you need basic spreadsheet functionality with a small footprint, try Simple Table. If you need full Excel-like capabilities and don't mind the commercial license, Handsontable might be the better choice.Missing a Feature?
We're constantly working to improve Simple Table. If you need a feature that's not yet available, let us know! We prioritize features based on community demand.