Introduction
Airtable vs Knack
Airtable and Knack are two no-code platforms often compared for building databases, internal tools, and client portals. Airtable is known for its spreadsheet-style interface and fast setup, while Knack offers more control, user roles, and logic for app-like experiences.
This comparison explores their differences in pricing, scalability, features, and where Tadabase fits as a powerful alternative.
TL;DR: Airtable is great for lightweight data apps and collaboration. Knack is better for portals and logic. Tadabase combines both with automation, scalability, and compliance.
Analogy: Airtable is a spreadsheet with superpowers, Knack is a data-powered app engine, and Tadabase is a full operational platform with control and automation built-in.
Quick Comparison Table
| Platform | Best For | Starting Price |
|---|---|---|
| Airtable | Simple data tracking and collaboration | $20/user/month |
| Knack | Client portals, user roles, app logic | $41/month (unlimited users) |
| Tadabase | Scalable internal tools, automation, HIPAA-ready | View pricing |
What Is Airtable?
Airtable is a user-friendly database platform with a spreadsheet interface. It is used for managing structured data, team collaboration, and basic automations.
Pros:
Fast setup with pre-built templates- Easy to use for non-technical users
- Built-in automations and AI features
Cons:
Limited control over front-end or logic- Scalability can be a concern at higher volumes
"Airtable is simple to learn and powerful enough for everyday workflows." — G2
Compare: Tadabase vs Airtable | Read Now: Top Airtable Alternatives
What Is Knack?
Knack is a no-code app builder designed to help teams create custom portals, dashboards, and business apps with advanced data logic, user roles, and design control.
Pros:
- Unlimited users on every plan
- Record-level permissions and user logins
- Customizable forms, pages, and conditional logic
Cons:
- Requires more setup than spreadsheet tools
- No native mobile app (mobile web only)
"Knack gives you full control over your data-driven app." — G2
Feature Comparison
| Feature | Airtable | Knack | Tadabase |
|---|---|---|---|
| Visual Builder | Limited | Yes |
Yes |
| User Roles & Permissions | Basic | Advanced | Yes |
| Form Logic | Basic | Conditional | Yes |
| Custom Code Support | No | Yes |
Yes |
| Automation | Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
| HIPAA Compliance | Enterprise only | Enterprise only | Yes |
Pricing Breakdown
Airtable
- Free: Limited records and collaborators
- Team: $20 per user per month
- Business: $45 per user per month
Knack
- Starter: $41 per month (unlimited users)
- Pro: $82 per month
- Corporate: $165 per month
Pros and Cons
Airtable
- Easy to use and widely adopted
- Great for smaller teams and projects
- Less control over design and logic
Knack
- More control over UI and workflows
- Unlimited users on flat pricing
- Requires more time to configure
Review Summary
| Platform | G2 Rating | Capterra Rating | Quote |
|---|---|---|---|
| Airtable | 4.6 | 4.6 | "Great for organizing and collaborating on data." |
| Knack | 4.3 | 4.4 | "Custom workflows and apps without code." |
TadaScore Comparison
| Platform | Automation | Compliance | Ease of Use | Customization | TadaScore | Rank |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Airtable | 8.0 | 5.0 | 9.0 | 5.5 | 6.9 | 3rd |
| Knack | 8.5 | 6.5 | 7.0 | 8.5 | 7.6 | 2nd |
| Tadabase | 9.5 | 10.0 | 8.5 | 9.0 | 9.3 | 1st |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Airtable HIPAA compliant?
Only on enterprise plans with a signed BAA.
Can Knack handle user logins and permissions?
Yes, Knack includes advanced user roles and record-level permissions.
Can Tadabase replace Airtable or Knack?
Yes. Tadabase supports complex workflows, user access, automation, and PDF generation with flat pricing.
Why Teams Choose Tadabase
- Visual app builder with complex logic and permissions
- Unlimited users included
- Built-in HIPAA, audit logs, and role management
- PDF generation, APIs, and external integrations
