Free & Paid: The Best Spreadsheet Excel Alternatives Available in 2025

What are the benefits of exploring spreadsheet alternatives?

Exploring spreadsheet alternatives offers several advantages, particularly in terms of cost, usability, and collaborative features:

• Cost savings: Many alternatives, such as Google Sheets and LibreOffice Calc, are free, making them ideal for budget-conscious individuals or small businesses.
• Improved collaboration: Tools like Google Sheets and Airtable allow for real-time collaboration, making them perfect for teams working remotely or across different time zones.
• User-friendly interfaces: Many alternatives offer simplified, easy-to-use interfaces that help non-experts get started quickly without feeling overwhelmed by a wide range of features.
• Innovation: Some newer alternatives include advanced features such as AI-powered data analysis, automation, and integrations with other productivity tools, offering more flexibility than Excel.
• Better performance: Certain spreadsheet tools handle larger datasets better than Excel and provide faster performance, especially for users with complex datasets.

Best-free spreadsheet software alternatives 

Google Sheets

Google Sheets is perhaps the most popular free alternative to Excel. It is a web-based spreadsheet tool that offers real-time collaboration and an easy-to-use interface. It’s an ideal solution for users looking to collaborate on projects and share files with others, especially in a team or remote setting.

Key features:

• Cloud-based: Automatically saves your work in Google Drive, accessible from any device with internet access.
• Real-time collaboration: Multiple users can edit the same document simultaneously, making it ideal for team projects.
• Integration with Google workspace: Seamlessly integrates with other Google services like Google Docs, Google Slides, and Google Forms.
• Templates: Offers a variety of pre-made templates for budgeting, data analysis, and project management.

Pros:

• Free for anyone with a Google account.
• Excellent for real-time collaboration.
• Supports various add-ons to extend functionality.

Cons:

• Limited advanced features compared to Excel, such as complex pivot tables and macros.
• Requires an internet connection for full functionality (though offline mode is available).

LibreOffice Calc

LibreOffice Calc is an open-source, free spreadsheet program that is part of the LibreOffice suite. It offers many of the same features as Excel, such as complex calculations, pivot tables, and macros, making it a solid choice for users who prefer desktop applications.

Key features:

• Fully offline: Unlike Google Sheets, LibreOffice Calc is a desktop application that doesn’t require an internet connection.
• Excel compatibility: Supports Excel file formats (.xlsx), making it easy to work with Excel files.
• Advanced features: Offers advanced features like pivot tables, data analysis tools, and scripting options.
• Customization: Highly customizable interface, with the option to install extensions for additional functionality.

Pros:

• Completely free and open-source.
• Supports a wide range of file formats, including Excel files.
• Works offline, making it suitable for users without constant internet access.

Cons:

• The interface is more basic and might seem outdated compared to modern spreadsheet applications.
• Not as user-friendly for beginners.

Zoho Sheet

Zoho Sheet is part of the Zoho suite of business productivity tools and is a web-based application that allows you to create, edit, and collaborate on spreadsheets online. It is an excellent choice for businesses looking for a free alternative with robust features.

Key features:

• Cloud-based with real-time collaboration: Like Google Sheets, Zoho Sheet allows for simultaneous editing and real-time updates.
• Data validation and conditional formatting: Offers advanced features like data validation, conditional formatting, and cell locking for enhanced data management.
• Excel compatibility: Supports importing and exporting Excel files, making it easy to work with your existing Excel data.
• Mobile apps: Zoho Sheet offers mobile apps for both iOS and Android, allowing you to work on spreadsheets while on the go.

Pros:

• Offers both free and paid plans with enhanced features.
• Advanced spreadsheet tools like pivot tables, macros, and data analysis features.
• Strong integration with other Zoho business tools.

Cons:

• The free version has limited storage and functionality compared to paid versions.
• Not as widely used or recognised as Google Sheets, so it may not be as familiar to some users.

WPS Office Spreadsheets

WPS Office Spreadsheets is part of the WPS Office suite, a free alternative to Microsoft Office that includes a word processor, presentation software, and spreadsheet tool. The spreadsheet tool in WPS Office offers a user-friendly interface with many Excel-like features.

Key features:

• Excel-like features: Offers many similar features to Excel, such as pivot tables, charts, and data analysis tools.
• Cross-platform: Available for Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, and Android, making it accessible on virtually any device.
• Cloud integration: Supports integration with cloud storage services like Google Drive and Dropbox for easy file sharing and collaboration.
• Excel compatibility: Can open and edit Excel files, making it easy to switch from Excel to WPS Office.

Pros:

• The free version offers many features similar to Excel.
• Available on multiple platforms, including mobile devices.
• Good compatibility with Excel files.

Cons:

• The free version includes ads, and some premium features are locked behind a paywall.
• Some users report occasional performance issues with larger files.

Best-paid spreadsheet software alternatives

Airtable

Airtable is a unique, flexible tool that combines the functionality of a spreadsheet with the features of a database. It’s ideal for project management, organising information, and collaborating with teams. Airtable goes beyond traditional spreadsheets, allowing users to create visually appealing and powerful databases.

Key features:

• Database functionality: Airtable allows you to organise your data into tables that act like a relational database, making it easy to link information between tables.
• Customization: Customize views, fields, and layouts to suit your specific needs, whether you're managing a project or tracking inventory.
• Automation: Airtable includes automation features that let you set up workflows, such as notifications and data updates.
• Collaboration: Real-time collaboration allows teams to work together on the same data simultaneously.

Pros:

• User-friendly and visually appealing interface.
• Great for managing projects, inventory, and content calendars.
• Offers integration with many popular apps like Slack, Google Drive, and Dropbox.

Cons:

• The free version has limitations, including fewer records per base and limited automation features.
• Can become expensive if you need more advanced features or larger storage.

Smartsheet

Smartsheet is a cloud-based platform designed for managing projects and automating workflows. It combines the ease of use of a spreadsheet with the power of project management and collaboration tools, making it suitable for businesses that need more than just a spreadsheet tool.

Key features:

• Project management features: Includes Gantt charts, calendars, and task dependencies for project planning and tracking.
• Collaboration: Allows for real-time collaboration, sharing, and commenting on projects and tasks.
  Automation: Smartsheet includes automation tools for setting up alerts, reminders, and actions.
• Integrations: Smartsheet integrates with a wide range of tools like Slack, Salesforce, and Microsoft Teams.

Pros:

• Excellent for project management and collaboration.
• Easy to scale for teams and businesses of all sizes.
• Automates repetitive tasks, saving time and effort.

Cons:

• Can be expensive, especially for small businesses or individuals.
• Some users may find the learning curve steep when first using the tool.

SoftMaker PlanMaker

SoftMaker PlanMaker is a powerful spreadsheet application that is part of the SoftMaker Office suite. It offers a wide range of Excel-like features and is an excellent alternative for users who prefer a desktop application rather than a cloud-based solution.

Key features:

• Full Excel compatibility: PlanMaker supports Excel file formats and offers similar functionality, including advanced calculations, pivot tables, and macros.
• Cross-platform: Available for Windows, Linux, and Android, with mobile apps for on-the-go access.
• Offline functionality: As a desktop app, PlanMaker works offline, which is ideal for users who don’t always have internet access.

Pros:

• Affordable one-time purchase fee (no subscription required).
• Excellent Excel compatibility and powerful features.
• Available on multiple platforms.

Cons:

• Lacks some of the cloud-based collaboration features found in other tools like Google Sheets and Airtable.
• Requires a one-time purchase, which may be more expensive upfront than other subscription-based tools.

A quick look at the best spreadsheet Excel alternative

Feature/Tool	Google Sheets	LibreOffice Calc	Zoho Sheet	WPS Office Spreadsheets	Airtable	Smartsheet	SoftMaker PlanMaker
Cost	Free	Free	Free (with paid options)	Free (with paid options)	Paid (Free trial available)	Paid (with free options)	Paid (One-time purchase)
Cloud-Based	Yes	No	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	No
Offline Functionality	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	No	Yes	Yes
Excel Compatibility	Excellent	Good	Good	Excellent	Limited	Excellent	Excellent
Collaboration	Yes	No	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	No
Automation	Yes	No	Yes	No	Yes	Yes	No
Templates Available	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Advanced Features	Limited	Advanced	Advanced	Advanced	High (Database-like)	High (Project Management)	Advanced
Mobile App	Yes	No	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	No
Integrations	Google Workspace, Add-ons	Limited	Zoho Suite, Google Drive	Google Drive, Dropbox	Multiple business apps	Multiple business apps	Limited

Which Excel alternative should you use?

• Google Sheets and Zoho Sheet are great free options for users who need cloud-based collaboration and integration with other business tools.
• LibreOffice Calc and WPS Office Spreadsheets are ideal for users who prefer offline tools with solid Excel compatibility and free usage.
• If you need advanced project management features or a more database-like experience, then Airtable and Smartsheet are worth considering, though they come with paid plans.
• SoftMaker PlanMaker is a one-time purchase option for those who prefer a desktop application without recurring fees but still require Excel-like functionalities.

Why choose paid spreadsheet alternatives?

There are many great free options available, and paid spreadsheet alternatives offer additional features that can greatly enhance productivity and collaboration. Here's why you might consider investing in a paid tool:

Advanced features for businesses
Paid tools often come with advanced features that are crucial for businesses and professionals. Features like project management, automation, data analysis, and workflow customisation are commonly available in paid tools like Smartsheet and Airtable. These features allow teams to stay organised, streamline processes, and improve efficiency.

Greater storage and limits
Free versions of spreadsheet tools often have limitations in terms of file size, the number of users, and storage. If your team requires unlimited storage or the ability to handle large datasets, paid options like Smartsheet and Airtable provide scalable solutions with more storage capacity and fewer restrictions.

Enhanced support and security
Paid plans usually come with priority customer support, making it easier to resolve issues quickly. Moreover, paid tools often include higher levels of security, such as encryption, password protection, and access controls—all crucial for protecting sensitive business data.

Better integration with business tools
Many paid spreadsheet alternatives offer seamless integrations with popular business tools like CRM systems, project management platforms, and email marketing software. This level of integration is particularly beneficial for businesses looking to streamline their workflows and improve team collaboration.

How to choose the best spreadsheet alternative for your needs

With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the best spreadsheet tool. Here are some factors to consider when deciding whether to opt for a free or paid spreadsheet alternative:

Budget constraints
If you’re a student, freelancer, or small business with limited funds, free options like Google Sheets and LibreOffice Calc provide essential spreadsheet functionalities without the need for any investment. However, if you're running a large team or organisation, investing in a paid tool like Smartsheet or Airtable might be worth it for the added features.

Cloud vs. offline
If you need to collaborate with a team remotely, cloud-based tools like Google Sheets or Zoho Sheet are ideal. On the other hand, if you need to work without an internet connection, desktop tools like LibreOffice Calc and SoftMaker PlanMaker are great options.

Collaboration and integration needs
Teams working on projects together may find Google Sheets or Smartsheet more beneficial due to their real-time collaboration features and integrations with popular apps. If your team needs automation or wants to set up workflows, Airtable and Zoho Sheet provide these capabilities.

Advanced features
For users who require more advanced features like pivot tables, macros, and data analysis tools, paid alternatives like Smartsheet and Airtable provide better functionality. However, free options like Google Sheets and LibreOffice Calc still offer many of these features for less complex tasks.

Mobile accessibility
If you need to work on the go, mobile accessibility is crucial. Both Google Sheets and Zoho Sheets offer mobile apps that allow you to access and edit your spreadsheets from anywhere. If you need a fully offline solution, however, LibreOffice Calc and SoftMaker PlanMaker are better suited.

Conclusion

Choosing the right spreadsheet software involves considering your specific needs. If you need basic functionality for personal or small business use, Google Sheets or LibreOffice Calc should suffice. For advanced data manipulation, Microsoft Excel remains a top choice.

To make an informed decision, evaluate factors like cost, collaboration, and advanced features. Additionally, Somi AI’s Directory provides a comprehensive list of spreadsheet alternatives, including both free and paid options, to help you find the right tool for your needs.

Ultimately, selecting the right spreadsheet software can improve your workflow, enhance collaboration, and simplify your data management tasks.