Stackby Review — Airtable Competitor, But Should You Switch? [AppSumo 2020]

In this comprehensive review, we’ll dive deep into Stackby, a new contender in the world of database-spreadsheet hybrids that’s positioning itself as an Airtable alternative. As we enter 2020, AppSumo has kicked off the year with this intriguing lifetime deal (LTD) offer. But is Stackby truly a worthy competitor to the established Airtable, and more importantly, should you make the switch?

Throughout this article, we’ll explore Stackby’s features, pricing structure, templates, and integrations. We’ll compare it side-by-side with Airtable to help you make an informed decision. Whether you’re a solopreneur, part of a small team, or managing multiple departments, understanding the pros and cons of Stackby could be crucial for your productivity and data management needs.

Let’s embark on this journey to uncover whether Stackby is the right tool for your business in 2020 and beyond.

Intro [00:00]

Welcome to another insightful review from Dave Swift of LTD.life, where we explore software tools offering lifetime deals. Today, we’re focusing on Stackby, a new entry in the database-spreadsheet hybrid market that’s making waves as an Airtable competitor.

Stackby represents an exciting development in the world of data management and organization. It’s designed to bridge the gap between traditional spreadsheets and more complex databases, offering a user-friendly interface that caters to both casual users and those requiring more sophisticated data relationships.

Key Features of Stackby:

• Spreadsheet-like interface with database functionalities
• Customizable workspaces for different departments or projects
• Ability to create relationships between data sets
• Pre-built templates for various use cases
• API integrations with popular services

Understanding the Concept:

• Stackby, like Airtable, combines the familiarity of spreadsheets with the power of databases
• It’s ideal for users who need more than a simple spreadsheet but find traditional databases intimidating
• The tool allows for creating complex data relationships without requiring extensive technical knowledge

Target Audience:

• Small to medium-sized businesses looking for flexible data management solutions
• Marketing teams needing to organize campaigns and track results
• Project managers seeking a visual way to track progress and allocate resources
• Entrepreneurs and solopreneurs who wear multiple hats and need a centralized data hub

As we delve deeper into Stackby’s offerings, we’ll explore how it stacks up against the competition, particularly Airtable, and whether its AppSumo lifetime deal presents a compelling reason to make the switch or add it to your software toolkit.

Plans and Code [01:10]

Stackby’s entrance into the market comes with an attractive AppSumo deal, but it’s crucial to understand the nitty-gritty of what you’re getting. Let’s break down the plans and codes offered through this lifetime deal and compare them to Airtable’s offerings.

Stackby’s AppSumo Deal:

• Entry price: $59 for the first code
• Stackable: Up to 5 codes
• Workspace limitation: 1 workspace per deal (doesn’t increase with stacking)

What You Get with Each Code:

• Users: 2 users for the first code, +2 users per additional code
• Storage: 10GB per stack initially, +5GB per additional code
• Stacks (databases): 20 stacks for first code, +5 stacks per additional code
• Rows: Increases by 5,000 per additional code

Comparison to Airtable:

• Airtable offers a free plan with unlimited bases (equivalent to Stackby’s stacks)
• Free plan limitations: 1,200 records per base, 2GB attachment per base
• Airtable’s paid plan: $10 per user per month

Analysis of Stackby’s Offer:

• The single workspace limitation could be restrictive for larger organizations
• Storage and stack increases with additional codes seem less generous compared to the user increase
• The deal might be more appealing if storage and stack allowances doubled with each code

Potential Improvements for Stackby’s Offer:

• Double the storage allowance per code (e.g., 20GB instead of 15GB for the second code)
• Increase the number of stacks more significantly per code (e.g., 40 instead of 25 for the second code)
• Consider allowing at least one additional workspace for stacked codes

Who Benefits Most from This Deal:

• Small teams or solopreneurs who don’t need multiple workspaces
• Users who prioritize having a lifetime deal over a subscription model
• Those who value API integrations and are willing to work within the storage limitations

Considerations Before Purchasing:

• Evaluate your current and future needs for workspaces, storage, and number of databases
• Compare the long-term cost of Stackby’s lifetime deal vs. Airtable’s subscription model
• Consider the potential growth of your team and data requirements

While Stackby’s AppSumo deal presents an interesting opportunity, it’s essential to weigh the limitations against your specific needs. The single workspace constraint and the modest increases in storage and stacks per additional code may be dealbreakers for some users. However, for those who can work within these parameters, the lifetime access and potential for future improvements make it a deal worth considering.

Templates [06:30]

Templates are a crucial feature for any database-spreadsheet hybrid tool, as they provide users with ready-made solutions for common use cases. Stackby offers a variety of templates to help users get started quickly. Let’s explore the template offerings and compare them to Airtable’s options.

Stackby’s Template Gallery:

• Diverse categories covering various industries and use cases
• Accessible through the main dashboard or menu bar
• Templates available for marketing, project management, CRM, and more

Key Template Categories in Stackby:

• Small Business CRM
• Applicant Tracker
• Project Tracker
• Video Production Planning
• Email Marketing
• Education
• Design and Creative Projects
• Film Production Planning and Cash Flow

Comparison to Airtable’s Templates:

• Airtable offers a more extensive template library due to its longer presence in the market
• Both platforms organize templates by category for easy browsing
• Airtable’s design inspiration is evident in Stackby’s template gallery layout

Benefits of Using Templates:

• Quick start for new projects or processes
• Pre-built relationships between data sets
• Industry-specific solutions readily available
• Inspiration for custom database designs

Customizing Templates in Stackby:

• Ability to add, remove, or modify columns
• Option to create new views based on template data
• Flexibility to adapt templates to specific business needs

Standout Templates in Stackby:

• Email Marketing: Tracks campaigns, segments, and performance metrics
• Project Tracker: Offers basic project management functionalities
• CRM: Provides a simple customer relationship management system

Template Limitations:

• Some templates may be too basic for advanced users
• Fewer options compared to more established platforms like Airtable
• May require significant customization for specific business processes

Best Practices for Using Stackby Templates:

• Start with a relevant template and customize it to your needs
• Use templates as a learning tool to understand data relationships
• Combine elements from multiple templates for a tailored solution
• Regularly review and update your adapted templates as your processes evolve

While Stackby’s template offerings may not be as extensive as Airtable’s, they provide a solid foundation for users to build upon. The available templates cover a wide range of use cases and can be particularly beneficial for small businesses and startups looking for quick, out-of-the-box solutions. As Stackby grows and develops, we can expect its template library to expand, offering even more value to users seeking efficient ways to manage their data and workflows.

Inside the Database [08:50]

Diving into Stackby’s database functionality reveals a powerful yet user-friendly interface that aims to make data management accessible to users of all technical levels. Let’s explore the key features and functionalities you’ll find when working within a Stackby database.

Database Structure:

• Organized into “stacks” (equivalent to Airtable’s “bases”)
• Multiple tabs within each stack for different data sets
• Ability to create relationships between tabs using linked columns

Column Types:

• Short text
• Long text
• Number
• Date and time
• Checkbox
• File uploads/attachments
• Collaborator options
• URLs
• Formulas (in beta)
• Created date
• Updated time
• Linked columns
• API columns (a standout feature)

Data Manipulation:

• Easy column creation and modification
• Drag-and-drop functionality for rearranging columns
• Quick data entry similar to traditional spreadsheets

Views and Visualization:

• Multiple view options including grid, calendar, and potentially others
• Customizable views to focus on specific data subsets
• Calendar view for date-based data (e.g., project due dates)

Search and Filter:

• Robust search functionality to quickly find specific data
• Advanced filtering options to narrow down data sets

Collaboration Features:

• Ability to add team members to workspaces
• Collaborative editing in real-time
• Comments and discussions on specific data points (if available)

API Integration:

• Unique feature allowing direct integration with external services
• Potential for real-time data updates from connected platforms

Performance Considerations:

• Some users may experience slight lag when loading large data sets or switching views
• Occasional refresh may be needed to resolve UI glitches

Best Practices for Using Stackby Databases:

• Plan your data structure before creating complex relationships
• Utilize different views to gain various perspectives on your data
• Regularly clean and organize your data for optimal performance
• Take advantage of API integrations for automated data updates

Limitations to Keep in Mind:

• May not be as feature-rich as dedicated project management or CRM tools
• Learning curve for users new to database-spreadsheet hybrids
• Some advanced features (like formulas) are still in beta

Stackby’s database functionality strikes a balance between power and usability. While it may not have all the advanced features of more specialized tools, its strength lies in its flexibility and the ability to create custom solutions for a wide range of business needs. The inclusion of API columns is a standout feature that sets it apart from some competitors, offering potential for deeper integration with other business tools.

Integrations [11:35]

One of Stackby’s most compelling features is its array of API integrations, which can significantly enhance its functionality and value for users. These integrations allow for seamless data flow between Stackby and various popular services, potentially automating many data entry and update processes.

Available Integrations:

• Slack
• YouTube
• Hunter.io
• Google PageSpeed
• MailChimp
• WhatsApp
• Twilio
• And approximately 9 others, totaling around 15 integrations

Key Benefits of Stackby’s Integrations:

• Real-time data updates from external sources
• Automation of data entry tasks
• Enhanced data accuracy by reducing manual input
• Improved workflow efficiency across multiple platforms

Standout Integrations:

• Slack: Facilitates team communication and notifications
• YouTube: Useful for content creators and marketers tracking video performance
• Hunter.io: Aids in email address acquisition for sales and marketing teams
• Google PageSpeed: Valuable for web developers and SEO professionals
• MailChimp: Enables email marketing campaign tracking and management

How Integrations Work in Stackby:

• API columns can be added to any stack
• Data is pulled directly from the integrated service
• Updates can be set to occur automatically or manually
• Users can customize which data points are imported

Comparison to Competitors:

• While 15 integrations may seem limited, they cover major services
• The inclusion of API integrations in the base plan is a significant advantage
• Some competitors charge extra for similar integration capabilities

Best Practices for Using Stackby Integrations:

• Identify which integrations align with your current tools and workflows
• Start with one or two integrations to familiarize yourself with the process
• Regularly audit your integrated data to ensure accuracy and relevance
• Use integrations to create comprehensive dashboards combining data from multiple sources

Potential Limitations:

• The current number of integrations may not cover all needed services
• Some users may require more advanced integration features
• Learning curve associated with setting up and managing API connections

Future Outlook:

• Expectation for Stackby to expand its integration offerings over time
• Potential for more sophisticated integration features in future updates

Stackby’s integration capabilities, while not as extensive as some larger platforms, offer significant value, especially considering they’re included in the base plan. For businesses heavily reliant on tools like Slack, YouTube, or MailChimp, these integrations could be a game-changer, streamlining workflows and providing real-time insights. As Stackby continues to develop, the expansion of these integration options could further cement its position as a versatile and powerful data management solution.

Project Tracker [12:35]

Stackby’s Project Tracker template offers a basic yet functional solution for managing projects and tasks. While it may not replace dedicated project management tools for complex projects, it provides a solid foundation for small teams or individuals looking to organize their work within the Stackby ecosystem.

Overview of the Project Tracker:

• Pre-built template for quick setup
• Basic project management functionalities
• Customizable to fit specific project needs

Key Features:

• Project name and description fields
• Category classification for projects
• Due date tracking
• Status updates
• Multiple view options, including calendar view

Calendar View Functionality:

• Visualize project deadlines on a calendar interface
• Quick overview of upcoming due dates
• Ability to drag and drop items for date adjustments (if available)

Customization Options:

• Add new columns for additional project details
• Create custom views to focus on specific project aspects
• Modify existing columns to match your workflow

Comparison to Dedicated Project Management Tools:

• Less feature-rich compared to specialized platforms like ClickUp
• Lacks advanced features such as Gantt charts or time tracking
• Better suited for basic project tracking rather than complex project management

Ideal Use Cases:

• Small teams or solopreneurs managing multiple projects
• Simple task tracking and deadline management
• Projects that don’t require extensive collaboration features

Limitations to Consider:

• May not scale well for large teams or complex projects
• Limited in terms of advanced project management features
• Potential performance issues when handling a large number of projects

Best Practices for Using Stackby’s Project Tracker:

• Start with the template and customize it to fit your specific needs
• Utilize different views (grid, calendar) for various project perspectives
• Regularly update project statuses and due dates
• Integrate with other Stackby stacks for a more comprehensive business overview

Potential Improvements:

• Addition of more advanced project management features
• Enhanced collaboration tools for team communication
• Integration with time tracking or resource management functionalities

While Stackby’s Project Tracker may not replace dedicated project management software for all users, it offers a convenient solution for those already using Stackby for other business processes. Its strength lies in its integration with other Stackby features and the ability to customize the tracker to fit specific workflows. For small teams or individuals managing straightforward projects, this template could provide just enough functionality to keep tasks organized and on track.

Final Thoughts [14:50]

After a comprehensive review of Stackby, it’s time to weigh the pros and cons and determine whether this Airtable competitor is worth the investment, especially considering the AppSumo lifetime deal offer.

Pros of Stackby:

• User-friendly interface combining spreadsheet familiarity with database power
• Customizable templates for various business needs
• API integrations included in the base plan
• Lifetime deal option through AppSumo
• Potential for growth and feature expansion

Cons of Stackby:

• Limited to one workspace in the AppSumo deal
• Less generous storage and stack increases with additional codes
• Fewer templates and integrations compared to established competitors
• Some performance issues and UI glitches reported

Final Rating: 6.4 out of 10

Key Takeaways:

• Stackby offers a solid foundation for businesses needing a flexible data management solution
• The AppSumo deal provides good value for small teams or solopreneurs
• API integrations are a standout feature, offering real-time data connections
• Limitations in workspace and storage may be dealbreakers for some users

Who Should Consider Stackby:

• Small businesses looking for an all-in-one data management solution
• Solopreneurs who value lifetime access over subscription models
• Teams heavily reliant on the available API integrations
• Users who prioritize customization and are willing to work within the given limitations

Who Might Want to Stick with Alternatives:

• Large teams requiring multiple workspaces
• Users needing extensive storage or a large number of databases
• Those requiring advanced features found in dedicated CRM or project management tools
• Businesses already invested in Airtable’s ecosystem

Future Outlook:

• Potential for Stackby to improve and expand its offerings
• Opportunity for growth in template library and integration options
• Possibility of performance enhancements and UI refinements

In conclusion, Stackby presents an interesting option in the database-spreadsheet hybrid space. While it may not fully replace Airtable for all users, its AppSumo lifetime deal offers an attractive entry point for those willing to work within its current limitations. The inclusion of API integrations and the potential for future growth make it a tool worth considering, especially for small businesses and solopreneurs looking for a flexible data management solution.

Final Recommendations:

• Carefully evaluate your current and future needs before committing to Stackby
• Consider testing the platform with a single code before stacking multiple codes
• Keep an eye on Stackby’s development and feature updates
• Weigh the long-term cost savings of a lifetime deal against the potential limitations

Alternative Considerations:

• For those unsure about committing to Stackby, Airtable’s free plan remains a strong option
• Explore other database-spreadsheet hybrids in the market for comparison
• Consider specialized tools if your primary need is project management or CRM functionality

Moving Forward with Stackby:

If you decide to invest in Stackby:

• Take full advantage of the available templates to jumpstart your data organization
• Explore the API integrations to maximize efficiency in your workflows
• Engage with the Stackby community for tips, tricks, and potential feature requests
• Regularly reassess your usage to ensure it continues to meet your business needs

In the ever-evolving landscape of productivity tools, Stackby represents an interesting new player. While it may not be the perfect solution for everyone, its unique combination of features, lifetime deal opportunity, and potential for growth make it a contender worth watching in the database-spreadsheet hybrid space.

Summary

Stackby enters the market as an Airtable competitor, offering a blend of spreadsheet familiarity and database functionality. The AppSumo lifetime deal presents an attractive option for small businesses and solopreneurs, with a starting price of $59 for the first code, stackable up to five times. However, the deal comes with limitations, most notably a single workspace restriction and modest increases in storage and stacks with additional codes.

Key features of Stackby include customizable templates, API integrations, and a user-friendly interface. The platform shines in its ability to create data relationships and offer multiple views of information, including calendar and grid views. The inclusion of API integrations with popular services like Slack, YouTube, and MailChimp is a standout feature, potentially automating many data entry and update processes.

While Stackby offers basic project management capabilities through its Project Tracker template, it may not fully replace dedicated project management tools for complex needs. The platform’s strength lies in its flexibility and potential for customization, making it suitable for a wide range of business applications.

Compared to Airtable, Stackby currently offers fewer templates and integrations, reflecting its newer status in the market. However, the lifetime deal through AppSumo could provide significant long-term cost savings for users who can work within the given limitations.

The final rating of 6.4 out of 10 reflects Stackby’s potential as a useful tool for small teams and individuals, balanced against its current limitations and areas for improvement. Potential users should carefully consider their specific needs, especially regarding workspace requirements and storage capacity, before investing in the platform.

For those interested in exploring Stackby further, it’s recommended to start with a single code and thoroughly test the platform’s capabilities. Keep in mind the potential for future growth and feature additions as Stackby continues to develop and refine its offering.

Ultimately, while Stackby may not be a direct replacement for Airtable in all scenarios, it presents an intriguing option in the database-spreadsheet hybrid space, especially for those attracted to the idea of a lifetime deal and the included API integrations. As with any productivity tool, the key is to align the platform’s capabilities with your specific business needs and workflows.