Teable: The Self-Hosted, PostgreSQL-Based Airtable Alternative

Teable provides an open-source alternative to Airtable, offering a no-code interface powered by a PostgreSQL database. Whether you prefer hosting in the cloud, on a private server, or keeping everything local, Teable is built to scale, handling millions of rows with high performance and stability.

A clean, modular tech stack The architecture is designed for modern web standards. The frontend is built on Next.js, featuring full internationalization and live data synchronization. The backend utilizes Nest.js to keep business logic distinct from data APIs, while Prisma manages database migrations and queries efficiently.

Logical folder structure

• apps: Contains the frontend and the Nest.js backend (licensed under AGPL 3.0).
• packages: Houses i18n modules, core logic, and the SDK (licensed under MIT).
• plugins: Dedicated to custom extensions (licensed under AGPL 3.0).

Database flexibility Teable uses SQLite for lightweight development environments. For production workloads, you can easily transition to PostgreSQL using the make switch-db-mode command.

Out-of-the-box features

• Data Management: Perform batch row edits, apply advanced filters, sort records, and use aggregation functions. Supports complex formula columns and strict data validation.
• Collaboration: Real-time co-editing allows multiple users to work simultaneously. Includes built-in commenting and a comprehensive operation history for auditing.
• Extensibility: Support for custom plugins and direct SQL queries. Automated workflows are currently in development for the enterprise version.

View types & use cases

High-volume data performance A built-in optimization engine ensures the interface remains responsive even when processing datasets containing millions of records.

Developer-centric tools Teable is built for customization, offering a dedicated CLI tool, a robust SDK, and support for bespoke plugins.

Flexible deployment You can get up and running with a single Docker command. Teable includes example docker-compose files and supports one-click deployments on platforms like Railway, Zeabur, and Alibaba Cloud.

Real-world examples

Sales CRM

Construct a relational data model:

• Main table: Customers (company name, contact info, industry)
• Linked table: Opportunities (linked to customer records, expected revenue, sales stage, and deadlines)

Configure a Kanban view grouped by stage (e.g., Prospect > Negotiating > Closed-Won) to visualize your pipeline. Then:

1. Batch import existing customer data using the table view.
2. Link opportunity records to customers; relationships will auto-populate across tables.
3. Manage follow-ups and meetings via the calendar view.
4. Generate sales funnel charts to analyze conversion rates at each stage.

Project Management

Organize tasks using a Kanban board:

• Columns: To Do > In Progress > Done > Blocked
• Card fields: Task title, assignee, priority level, and estimated hours
• Automation (Enterprise): Configure rules to trigger email notifications whenever a task status is updated.

Deployment guide

Quick start with Docker

git clone https://github.com/teableio/teable.git
cd dockers/examples/standalone/
docker-compose up -d

One-click cloud deployment Railway, Zeabur, and Alibaba Cloud provide dedicated deployment buttons for Teable. Simply click the link, follow the prompts, and the instance will be live in minutes.

Setting up a development environment

1. Enable Corepack: corepack enable
2. Install dependencies: pnpm install
3. Switch database mode (optional): make switch-db-mode
4. Launch development services:

   cd apps/nestjs-backend
   pnpm dev