Airtable vs 15Five
A head-to-head comparison to help you pick the right tool
Last updated: April 30, 2026
Airtable
Airtable is a flexible database and project management platform that combines the power of a relational database with the simplicity of a spreadsheet. It allows teams to build custom workflows, track projects, and manage data in highly visual and customizable ways. Airtable is popular with operations, marketing, and product teams that need more than a simple task manager.
15Five
15Five is a continuous performance management platform focused on weekly check-ins, OKRs, and employee engagement. It helps managers stay connected with their teams through structured feedback and recognition tools. 15Five is popular with remote and distributed teams that need async communication tools.
Pros
- ✓Extremely flexible — can be adapted to almost any workflow or use case
- ✓Powerful relational database features go beyond simple task management
- ✓Strong automation capabilities
- ✓Large template library to get started quickly
Cons
- ✗Can require significant setup time to build effective bases
- ✗Pricing can get expensive with larger teams and advanced features
- ✗Learning curve for users unfamiliar with database concepts
- ✗Performance can slow with very large databases
Pros
- ✓Simple and intuitive weekly check-in format that drives adoption
- ✓Strong OKR and goal-setting tools
- ✓Excellent manager training and coaching resources
- ✓Good engagement survey tools with benchmarking
Cons
- ✗Limited HR functionality beyond performance and engagement
- ✗No payroll or benefits administration
- ✗Reporting could be more advanced for data-driven HR teams
Airtable vs 15Five: Side by Side
| Factor | Airtable | 15Five |
|---|---|---|
| User Rating | N/A | N/A |
| Category | Project Management | HR Software |
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Paid |
| Starting Price | Free | $4/user/mo |
| Best For | Operations and marketing teams wanting a flexible database-powered project management tool | Companies focused on employee engagement and performance |
| Our Pick | — | — |
Airtable Features
- ✓Database-style project management
- ✓grid view
- ✓kanban
- ✓gallery
- ✓calendar
- ✓automations
- ✓interfaces
- ✓forms
- ✓API access
- ✓integrations
15Five Features
- ✓Weekly check-ins
- ✓OKRs
- ✓performance reviews
- ✓engagement surveys
- ✓manager training
Pricing Comparison
Our Take
Choose Airtable if operations and marketing teams wanting a flexible database-powered project management tool. Choose 15Five if companies focused on employee engagement and performance.
Best For
Operations and marketing teams wanting a flexible database-powered project management tool
Best For
Companies focused on employee engagement and performance
Also Consider
If neither Airtable nor 15Five is the right fit, Wrike is worth evaluating.
Wrike
Marketing and creative teams needing enterprise project management with approvals and proofing
From Free
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Airtable and 15Five?
Airtable is best for operations and marketing teams wanting a flexible database-powered project management tool. 15Five is best for companies focused on employee engagement and performance.
Which is better, Airtable or 15Five?
Choose Airtable if operations and marketing teams wanting a flexible database-powered project management tool. Choose 15Five if companies focused on employee engagement and performance.
How much does Airtable cost?
Airtable starts at Free. Pricing model: Freemium.
How much does 15Five cost?
15Five starts at $4/user/mo. Pricing model: Paid.
Who should use Airtable?
Operations and marketing teams wanting a flexible database-powered project management tool
Who should use 15Five?
Companies focused on employee engagement and performance