Microsoft Excel is a powerful spreadsheet tool widely used for data analysis, budgeting, and project management. If you’re looking to use Excel without spending money, several free options are available. This article compares popular free versions of Excel to help you choose the one that best suits your needs.
Microsoft Excel Online
Microsoft offers a free web-based version of Excel called Excel Online. It provides essential spreadsheet features accessible through your web browser without any installation needed. With real-time collaboration and cloud storage via OneDrive, it’s perfect for users who need basic functionality and work across devices.
LibreOffice Calc
LibreOffice Calc is part of the LibreOffice suite and serves as a robust open-source alternative to Microsoft Excel. It supports many advanced features like pivot tables and macro scripting. Since it’s a downloadable program, it works offline on Windows, macOS, and Linux systems.
Google Sheets
Google Sheets is another excellent free alternative that operates entirely online through Google Drive. It offers solid functionality with collaborative editing capabilities similar to Excel Online but integrates deeply with other Google Workspace apps. It’s ideal if you want seamless sharing and automatic saving in the cloud.
WPS Office Spreadsheets
WPS Office offers a free spreadsheet application compatible with Microsoft Excel formats. Available for download on multiple platforms including Windows, Android, and iOS, WPS Spreadsheets combines a familiar interface with useful templates, making it an attractive option for users seeking compatibility without cost.
Excel Mobile App
For users who need spreadsheet access on smartphones or tablets, Microsoft’s Excel mobile app is available for free download on iOS and Android devices. While some advanced features require an Office 365 subscription, the app provides sufficient tools for viewing and editing spreadsheets on the go.
Choosing the right free version of Excel depends on your specific requirements such as offline access, collaboration needs, device compatibility, or feature depth. Whether you prefer online convenience or powerful desktop software without cost implications, these options offer great starting points to manage your spreadsheets efficiently.
This text was generated using a large language model, and select text has been reviewed and moderated for purposes such as readability.
