18 years helping Israeli businesses
choose better software

What Is Microsoft Excel?

Microsoft Excel is a productivity tool for creating spreadsheets, and for performing statistics and analysis. It features over 100 functions and more than 235 built-in formulas, 1D and 2D charting, pivot tables for cross-tabulation analysis, multiple worksheets, mail merge capabilities and macros. Use Excel to analyze data and reports in order to discover patterns, trends and gain new insights. With a robust set of tools, you'll be able to create, format and share spreadsheets without difficulty. This application comes with a multitude of slots for storage and types of storage, including audio files and word processors. It also has many different functions, which allow the user to do a large range of tasks.

Who Uses Microsoft Excel?

Designed for businesses of all sizes, it is a spreadsheet solution that helps manage and organize data using templates, perform calculations, create analytical charts, and more.

Microsoft Excel Software - Mobile and desktop interface
Microsoft Excel Software - Power BI import
Microsoft Excel Software - Table tools
Microsoft Excel Software - Multiple chart formats

Not sure about Microsoft Excel? Compare with a popular alternative

Microsoft Excel

Microsoft Excel

4.8 (19,117)
US$6.00
month
Free version
Free trial
15
86
4.3 (19,117)
4.6 (19,117)
4.3 (19,117)
VS.
Starting Price
Pricing Options
Features
Integrations
Ease of Use
Value for Money
Customer Service
US$29.00
month
Free version
Free trial
126
120
4.0 (660)
4.0 (660)
3.8 (660)
Green rating bars show the winning product based on the average rating and number of reviews.

Other great alternatives to Microsoft Excel

Insightly
Top rated features
Contact Database
Customer Database
Task Progress Tracking
Evernote Teams
Top rated features
Notes Management
Task Management Software
To-Do List
Microsoft Azure
Top rated features
Access Controls/Permissions
Cloud Computing
Data Security
Salesforce Sales Cloud
Top rated features
CRM Software
Client Management
Customer Database
quattro/CM
Top rated features
Audit Management
Data Security
Lab Instruments Integration
Quip
Top rated features
Collaboration Tools
Document Storage
File Sharing Software
Tableau
Top rated features
Data Analysis Tools
Data Integration
Data Visualization Software
Google Slides
Top rated features
Collaboration Tools
Customizable Templates
Screen Sharing Software
MATLAB
Top rated features
Data Visualization Software
Graphical Data Presentation
Mathematical Modeling

Reviews of Microsoft Excel

Average score

Overall
4.8
Ease of Use
4.3
Customer Service
4.3
Features
4.7
Value for Money
4.6

Reviews by company size (employees)

  • <50
  • 51-200
  • 201-1,000
  • >1,001
Ada
Ada
Research Project Manager in US
Verified LinkedIn User
Research, Self Employed
Used the Software for: 2+ years
Reviewer Source

The Most Practical Data Management Software

5.0 last month New

Comments: I started working with excel years ago. The practicality of this software is quite amazing. No matter what level of data entry or spreadsheet building you are, you can easily start entering, organizing, managing and storing data. Whenever I am working on any project, business or personal, or even doing daily tasks such a planning a trip, I like to have all my data in front of me and Excel makes it easily possible. As my fluency with data entry and analytics grew, I learned more and more features of Excel. I still like to watch tutorials and learn more about it. Excel also has so many cool shortcuts that can save you quite a bit of time and allow multitasking. It takes productivity to a whole new level. I also love the graphs. There are so many options for creating graphs and visualizing data that come handy during presentations.

Pros:

My favorite feature of Excel is the beautiful graphs and data visualization tools. You can create graphs really fast with correct data entry.

Cons:

There is a learning curve to master working with Excel. I like to learn new features and do different things on its workspace. I wish Excel provided their own tutorial.

Verified Reviewer
Verified LinkedIn User
Information Technology & Services, 201–500 Employees
Used the Software for: 2+ years
Reviewer Source

Easy, beginner friendly and powerful

5.0 4 weeks ago New

Comments: It is beginner-friendly. This tool would be the first step in getting familiar with data analysis. But it can't do powerful complex processing but works well for daily tasks and small datasets.

Pros:

Its interface is one of the best. It is not very overwhelming, I have been using this since I was in school and even back then I had no issue using it. It's recent Python integration has been good so far. The best part is that it automatically suggests to me the best graphs, charts, and pivot tables for data analytics and past saved formats. It really is a great beginner tool and a one-stop solution. It has become a tool I go to for most of the things.

Cons:

It really lags and even freezes in cases of large datasets. Even with VBA, it still needs improvement. It is a little bit basic when you compare it to other data visualization tools.

Gaia
Gaia
Owner in Italy
Verified LinkedIn User
Marketing & Advertising, 2–10 Employees
Used the Software for: 2+ years
Reviewer Source

great if you know how to use it

3.0 6 months ago

Comments: I'm of the generation where Excel is a synonym with Spreadsheet. I'ts ovrall a vry complete and useful tool however it's not very intuitive and it takes a good deal of time and effort to bring a newbie up to speed and have them able to succesfully use it.

Pros:

It's a very complete tool. If you know how to use it, it can really be a great asset

Cons:

I's very convoluted and sometimes the help-instructions are not clear. You need a good level of proficiency and a good memory in order to be able to use it well.

Noah
Manager Owner in US
Construction Software, 51–200 Employees
Used the Software for: 2+ years
Reviewer Source

Excel Review

5.0 3 months ago

Comments: The experience is great. A good software that is capable of heavy use day to day.

Pros:

I like the unlimited number of options it has, from entering equations to sorting data to calculating huge amounts of data.

Cons:

It is not the easiest software to use. Most of the time when I try a new feature, I have to go watch a YouTube video on how to do it and how it works.

Rochma
Admin in US
Civic & Social Organization, 501–1,000 Employees
Used the Software for: 2+ years
Reviewer Source

Alternatives Considered:

Excel usage

4.0 2 months ago New

Comments: we use excel, across all staff on a daily basis for all company processes form billing, to reports etc

Pros:

many easy formulas and processes, simple formulas can be taught and shared easily. easy to create simple spreadsheets

Cons:

2 staff members cannot use and update at once

Melissa
Melissa
Manager in Canada
Verified LinkedIn User
Entertainment, 501–1,000 Employees
Used the Software for: 2+ years
Reviewer Source

Microsoft Excel Review

4.0 2 weeks ago New

Comments: Overall it is a very positive experience

Pros:

The functionality is strong, i chose it of numbers in the mac environment and in the PC work environment is is really the best choice for workbooks. It also works seemlessly (mostly) in the full office suite so moving between it, PPT and Word for reporting and presentations allows me to keep my excel work product in tact with one point of review and adjustment when required

Cons:

it can crash in large formula design i have lost work previously when cells with large functions just stop working - if it gets to complex the file sizes get overwhelming, which can make multi workbook analysis problematic

Enish
Enish
Project Manager in Nepal
Verified LinkedIn User
Information Technology & Services, 2–10 Employees
Used the Software for: 2+ years
Reviewer Source

Microsoft Excel: A Reliable and Powerful Tool for Data Management

4.0 2 months ago

Comments: Overall, my experience with Microsoft Excel has been extremely positive. It’s a reliable tool that I use regularly for a variety of tasks, from simple data entry to complex analysis. While it might take time to learn all its features, once you become familiar with Excel, it becomes an invaluable asset.

Pros:

What I liked most about Microsoft Excel is its versatility and powerful functionality. Whether I’m working with basic lists or complex data analysis, Excel offers a wide range of features like pivot tables, advanced formulas, and data visualization tools that make managing and interpreting data much easier.

Cons:

What I liked least about Microsoft Excel is that it can be overwhelming for beginners due to the sheer number of features and functions available. While Excel is incredibly powerful, its learning curve can be steep for someone new to spreadsheets.

Verified Reviewer
Verified LinkedIn User
Accounting Software, 10,000+ Employees
Used the Software for: 2+ years
Reviewer Source

Amazing Data Visualization, Powerful Data Processing

5.0 2 weeks ago New

Comments: It is amazing for simple Business as well as large companies, offices to analyze and process their data. It is also useful for visualization of Data.

Pros:

A very powerful & user friendly Data processing and analyzing software that is commonly used everywhere

Cons:

Simple UI, Fast processing, Offline usage and very powerful

Sian
Sian
Team Leader in UK
Verified LinkedIn User
Marketing & Advertising, 1,001–5,000 Employees
Used the Software for: 2+ years
Reviewer Source

Brilliant product, quick and easy to use

5.0 4 weeks ago New

Comments: Brilliant experience, it's a great tool and assest when using on a daily basis for reporting and collating data

Pros:

Great spreadsheet, easy to use, quickens up the process of collating data and producing reports

Cons:

No cons for Microsoft Excel, it's easy to use and is quick to learn

Desiree
Desiree
Manager in US
Verified LinkedIn User
Retail, 2–10 Employees
Used the Software for: 1+ year
Reviewer Source

I give Microsoft a ten!!

5.0 3 weeks ago New

Comments: Overall great experience with Microsoft I recommend to everyone.

Pros:

Helps me organize inventory at work and most projects at home too.

Cons:

There's too much to learn I can spend weeks figuring out everything.

Esther
Esther
Payroll Coordinator in US Virgin Islands
Verified LinkedIn User
Construction Software, 51–200 Employees
Used the Software for: 2+ years
Reviewer Source

Microsoft Excel with ease

5.0 4 months ago

Comments: My overall experience with Microsoft Excel has been positive. It does all I can possibly need right now.

Pros:

What I like about Microsoft Excel is the ability to create different spreadsheets for so many different aspects of my everyday life. I have created budgets for my son and daughter. All they need to do is input their numbers and everything is calculated. I like that.

Cons:

There's not anything negative I can say about Microsoft Excel.

Suvajit
Design Engineer in India
Design, Self Employed
Used the Software for: 2+ years
Reviewer Source

Comprehensive review of Ms Excel and it's utter usefulness.

5.0 7 months ago

Comments: It is highly useful for managing, analyzing, and visualizing data through its extensive array of built-in functions, formulas, and charting tools.

Pros:

It is a versatile tool widely used across various industries for tasks ranging from data entry and budgeting to complex financial modeling and statistical analysis. Its intuitive interface, with a familiar grid of rows and columns, makes it accessible to both beginners and advanced users. Excel's advanced analytical tools- such as PivotTables, Power query and robust charting capabilities, allow for comprehensive data analysis and visualization. It has vast set of built-in formulas and functions for mathematical, statistical, financial, and logical operations, enhancing productivity and accuracy. Users can automate repetitive tasks using Macros and VBA (Visual Basic for Applications), saving time and reducing errors. Data management features, including sorting, filtering, and data validation, enable efficient handling of large data.It's versatility, user-friendly interface, advanced tools, and strong community support make it an essential application for personal and professional use.

Cons:

It can become cumbersome with large datasets, leading to slow performance and crashes.Security is a concern, as files can be easily accessed or altered without proper protection. Excel’s steep learning curve for advanced features requires significant training. It’s not ideal for creating complex or visually appealing reports compared to specialized software. Reliance on manual data entry increases the risk of human error, potentially resulting in significant inaccuracies in critical business applications.

Roberta
Writer in US
Nonprofit Organization Management, 11–50 Employees
Used the Software for: 2+ years
Reviewer Source

Microsoft Excel gives me a professional rep

5.0 4 months ago

Comments: It’s an excellent software, for budgets as well as tracking various grant applications. And I can access it at anytime - which is enormously helpful too.

Pros:

I really do like creating Excel spread sheets. I love how it keeps me organized. I also appreciate being able to add rows or columns as needed at anytime. This has allowed my listing of various grant applications and all the pertinent information updated.

Cons:

I disliked how intimidating it seemed at first. All these little boxes that I sometimes to learn how to accurately fill. But I got over that quickly, and now can’t imagine doing my work without it.

Verified Reviewer
Verified LinkedIn User
Entertainment, Self Employed
Used the Software for: 2+ years
Reviewer Source

Microsoft Excel Review

5.0 5 months ago

Comments: Microsoft Excel is a powerful and versatile tool that is highly effective for data analysis, management, and presentation, making it a staple in both personal and professional settings.

Pros:

Excel can handle a wide range of tasks, from simple calculations to complex data analysis. It’s used for budgeting, forecasting, data visualization, and more, making it suitable for various applications. Excel provides a variety of chart types and customization options to help users create clear and visually appealing data presentations, including bar charts, line graphs, pie charts, and more. Users can automate repetitive tasks through macros and VBA (Visual Basic for Applications) scripting, which can save time and reduce errors in routine processes.

Cons:

Excel can become sluggish or crash when handling extremely large datasets. Improvements in performance and stability for big data scenarios would enhance user experience. Also Managing and debugging complex formulas can be challenging. Enhanced formula auditing tools and better error messages would help users identify and fix issues more easily.

Justin
Justin
Nurse Informaticist in US
Verified LinkedIn User
Health, Wellness & Fitness, 10,000+ Employees
Used the Software for: 1+ year
Reviewer Source

Excell makes work spreadsheets better organized

5.0 6 months ago

Comments: Microsoft Excel is my go-to tool for managing reports, and I have been using it for many years. For spreadsheets, it offers an array of formulas, functions, and tools. Speed and performance have been improved further in the latest versions, cementing its leading position.

Pros:

Organize reports with functions using visual charts and visual models

Cons:

The risk of losing original data arises when there are many versions of one report changes are made and not kept track of.

Amanda
Amanda
Deli clerk in US
Verified LinkedIn User
Food & Beverages, 51–200 Employees
Used the Software for: 1+ year
Reviewer Source

Love excel

5.0 8 months ago

Pros:

I like how i can easily create,edit and share any kind of spreadsheet or chart that i create.

Cons:

I actually have one thing i don't like and that is the fact it does glitch occasionally and kick you out but none of the info is lost so you don't have to start over.

Liezel
Finance Officer in Philippines
Consumer Services, 11–50 Employees
Used the Software for: 2+ years
Reviewer Source

Microsoft Excel Review

5.0 last year

Comments: As an accountant Microsoft Excel made me read numbers.

Pros:

Can Function even without the internet. Flexibility and Work remotely.

Cons:

Continues development, however, I am satisfied with Mircosoft Excel performance.

Marco
Accountant in Canada
Transportation/Trucking/Railroad, 11–50 Employees
Used the Software for: 2+ years
Reviewer Source

Microsoft Excel - Review

5.0 8 months ago

Pros:

I appreciate Microsoft Excel for its powerful data analysis and visualization capabilities. The ability to create complex formulas, pivot tables, and dynamic charts makes it an essential tool for managing and interpreting large datasets. Excel's versatility in handling diverse tasks—from simple calculations to advanced financial modeling—combined with its extensive range of functions, makes it incredibly valuable for both personal and professional use.

Cons:

What I like least about Microsoft Excel is how tricky it can be to learn the advanced features. Basic stuff is pretty straightforward, but when you get into complex formulas and macros, it can get pretty confusing. Also, working with huge datasets can sometimes make Excel lag or even crash. And collaborating with others isn't always smooth, especially when multiple people try to edit the same spreadsheet at once.

Aaron
CEO in US
Nonprofit Organization Management, 201–500 Employees
Used the Software for: 2+ years
Reviewer Source

I wish everyone loved Excel as much as I do

5.0 last month New

Pros:

The Windows desktop version of Excel is easily the best and most powerful spreadsheet software ever created. I am not a big fan of the online version, and the Mac version is a little goofy.

Cons:

Just the learning curve. I love learning new things in Excel and there is no end to what you can learn, and Google is a great tool to quickly find out how to accomplish your idea. But most users can only do basic things in Excel and it is hard to do much advanced spreadsheet work in a collaborative environment if others are not fluent.

Jenny
Human Resource Assistant in Trinidad & Tobago
Executive Office, 10,000+ Employees
Used the Software for: 2+ years
Reviewer Source

Microsoft Excel Multifunctional Application

5.0 5 months ago

Comments: Overall Excel is multifunctional. I enjoy using Microsoft Excel daily to accomplish my day-to-day activities.

Pros:

I love that I am able to track matters and create Pivot tables at the end of each month to capture relevant data.

Cons:

Sometimes my Excel sheet is unable to close. Not sure of the reason.

Deneen
HR Coordinator in US
Utilities, 11–50 Employees
Used the Software for: 2+ years
Reviewer Source

Excel to the rescue!

5.0 3 weeks ago New

Comments: Overall, we can't recommend it enough. Dealing with numbers every hour of every day, Excel is the backbone of the company and we couldn't be happier with it.

Pros:

Microsoft Excel is such a functional tool that meets a multitude of needs within our coop. From graphs/visual presentations regarding rates to easily formatting and summarizing loads of accounting data, the coop could not function without it.

Cons:

There are so many different tools, but if you don't know how to use them, it doesn't do you a lot of good. It would be great if eventually there were to be an AI addition that can scan your data and suggest methods to fix, organize or update your data and how to do it in the most efficient manner.

Aniruddha
Operations Support in US
Mechanical or Industrial Engineering, 1,001–5,000 Employees
Used the Software for: 2+ years
Reviewer Source

Leveraging Data Old School but Reliant

5.0 4 months ago

Comments: It has been great tool with the reputation it has built over the years and also the bandwidth of features it helps every type of business.

Pros:

Excel has been our go to tool for any type of data and reporting purposes. We as a company and I personally have so much time invested in Excel because of the the way data gets structure in a more efficient way that helps dive deep into data and leverage it as per our business needs.

Cons:

The limitation on Pivot table type and also the graph type which are invited and pretty basic too. Sometimes the reason behind formulas not working is not very clear but vague.

Pawel
Head of Retail in UK
Retail, 11–50 Employees
Used the Software for: 2+ years
Reviewer Source

Great for data analysis and spreadsheets

5.0 2 months ago New

Comments: Overall the business uses it every day for majority of data

Pros:

True staple in every business. The functionality is amazing

Cons:

It has a learning curve and takes some practice

Cristina
Quality assurance tester in Romania
Verified LinkedIn User
Computer Software, 201–500 Employees
Used the Software for: 2+ years
Reviewer Source

A great software that manages your data with accuracy

5.0 last year

Pros:

It is one of the easiest data editor software to use, it has plenty of functions and tools to analyze, transform data, and perform calculations. It is well organized, in the sense that all the primary features are displayed to be easily accessible.

Cons:

Working with confidential or sensitive data would require some security, something that, Microsoft Excel does not offer. For instance, it is easy for data to be deleted, changed, or stolen in a company setting without knowing who did it.

Candice
Member Service Rep in US
Utilities, 11–50 Employees
Used the Software for: 2+ years
Reviewer Source

Where would we be without it

5.0 2 weeks ago New

Comments: Overall, we would highly recommend Excel. The paper days are over, and we wouldn't be able to function efficiently without the ability to sort through and organize all of our data.

Pros:

We love that Microsoft makes it super easy to sort through huge loads of consumer data. Being able to share our changes and updates across our department is a necessity.

Cons:

There are a lot of functionality features that you have to go digging to find. Especially for older people, it would be nice if some of the "helpful hints" were more easily accessible somehow.