Simple Table vs. Tabulator
Comparing a React-native data grid with a framework-agnostic solution
Tabulator has built a strong reputation as a feature-rich, free data grid library that works with vanilla JavaScript and can be adapted to React. With its comprehensive feature set and zero licensing costs, Tabulator appeals to developers who want a powerful table solution without breaking the bank. However, Tabulator wasn't designed specifically for React—it requires a wrapper library and can feel somewhat disconnected from the React ecosystem, with manual DOM manipulation and event handling that doesn't always align with React's declarative philosophy. This is where Simple Table offers a React-first alternative built from the ground up for the React ecosystem. At 31 kB compared to Tabulator's 98.9 kB plus 4.3 kB for the React wrapper (totaling 103.2 kB, minified + gzipped), Simple Table provides a more streamlined solution. This comparison examines whether a React-native approach with TypeScript-first design can deliver the functionality you need with better React integration, or if Tabulator's mature ecosystem and extensive features make it worth the integration complexity. We'll explore the differences in developer experience, React patterns, and feature sets to help you choose the right fit for your project.
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 | Tabulator |
|---|---|---|
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 | Tabulator |
|---|---|---|
| Bundle Size | 31 kB (minified + gzipped) | 98.9 kB core + 4.3 kB React wrapper = 103.2 kB total (minified + gzipped) |
Summary
Simple Table is a React-native data grid built specifically for the React ecosystem, offering features like virtualization, infinite scroll, row grouping, and cell editing with seamless React integration. At 31 kB minified + gzipped, it provides a declarative API that feels natural in React applications. It's ideal for developers who want a TypeScript-first, React-native solution without the overhead of wrapper libraries.Tabulator is a feature-rich, mature data grid library that works with vanilla JavaScript and can be used in React via a wrapper. The core library is 98.9 kB, plus an additional 4.3 kB for the React wrapper (totaling 103.2 kB, minified + gzipped). While completely free and feature-complete, its imperative API and manual DOM manipulation can feel less natural in React applications, requiring more integration work to follow React patterns.If you're building a React application and want a React-native solution with excellent TypeScript support, try Simple Table. For projects where framework-agnostic code is important or you need Tabulator's specific advanced features, Tabulator remains a solid free 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.