Create a Table in Baserow - Blank, Duplicate, or Import

Whenever a new table is needed, Baserow gives three starting points: a blank table, a duplicate of an existing table’s full structure and data, or an import from a CSV, Excel, JSON, or XML file - pick whichever matches the task at hand.

Overview

Creating a table takes seconds, whether starting fresh, copying an existing structure, or importing from CSV, Excel, JSON, or XML. A blank table suits a custom project, duplication suits repeatable setups, and import suits migrating data that already exists elsewhere.

Ways to Create a Table

Moving or duplicating a table preserves all views (including forms), formulas, and field configurations.

Method 1: Create a Blank Table

Start with an empty table when building a custom structure from scratch - this gives full control over field types and organization.

Step-by-step:

1. Open a database in the sidebar.
2. Click + New table at the bottom of the table list.
3. Enter a descriptive name (for example, “Customers,” “Tasks,” “Inventory”).
4. Select Start with a new table.
5. Click Add table - the new table comes with default fields and sample rows.

After creating the table, add the fields the project needs from over 25 field types : text, number, date, file, and more. Then add data, paste it in from a spreadsheet for fast bulk entry, or build a form to collect information from people outside the table. Finally, set up sorting and filtering to make the data easier to work with.

Method 2: Duplicate an Existing Table

Duplicating creates an exact copy of a table’s structure and data - useful when several versions of the same structure are needed for different purposes, such as reusing a proven setup or building a template for a recurring project.

Step-by-step:

1. Hover over the table in the sidebar.
2. Click the vertical ellipsis ⋮.
3. Select Duplicate - the copy appears right below the original.

What gets duplicated: all fields with their types and configurations, all rows with complete data, views (grid, gallery, form), filters, sorts and groupings, field formulas, and file attachments.

What does not get duplicated: row revision history and webhook configuration.

After duplicating, rename the table for its new purpose, update field values as needed, and remove or reorder any unneeded fields .

Method 3: Import from an External File

Importing existing data from a spreadsheet or another format quickly populates a Baserow table while preserving the data and giving access to the platform’s full feature set. Supported formats include CSV, JSON, and XML files as well as direct paste from a spreadsheet. Baserow detects field types automatically during import, and they can always be refined afterward.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many tables can I create in a database? There is no hard limit, but most databases work best with 5-15 tables.

What is the difference between duplicating a table and creating a new one? Duplicating copies an existing structure and data, saving setup time. A new table starts blank, requiring more initial configuration but offering full control.

Can I rename a table after creating it? Yes, the table name in the sidebar can be edited at any time - renaming does not affect data, views, or relationships with other tables.

Can I move or duplicate a table to another database? No, duplication only works within the same database. To move a table elsewhere, export it as CSV and import it into the target database.

What happens when I duplicate a table with linked records? Link-to-table fields are duplicated, but they still point to the original table’s records rather than the duplicates. For fully independent tables, update the links manually afterward.

Can I undo table creation? Yes, an undo button appears for 5 seconds right after creation. After that, the table can be deleted and recovered from trash.

Next, read Create a Table via Import for a closer look at supported formats and the step-by-step import process.