Microsoft Excel vs. Google Sheets — What's the Difference?

Microsoft Excel, a part of the Microsoft Office suite, is a powerful spreadsheet tool known for its comprehensive features, including advanced data analysis, complex formulas, pivot tables, and macro programming with Visual Basic for Applications (VBA). It is widely used in business, finance, and academia for its robust capabilities in handling large datasets and performing intricate calculations. Excel allows for offline access, making it suitable for users who need to work without an internet connection.

Google Sheets, part of Google Workspace, is a web-based spreadsheet tool that emphasizes ease of use and collaboration. It allows multiple users to work on a spreadsheet simultaneously, with changes reflected in real-time for all participants. Sheets is accessible from any device with an internet connection, offering convenience and flexibility. While it may not match Excel in terms of advanced features, Google Sheets provides a range of functions, pivot tables, and basic scripting with Google Apps Script, making it powerful enough for many users' needs.

One of the key differences between the two is their approach to collaboration. Excel has introduced more collaboration features in its latest versions, including co-authoring and sharing through OneDrive or SharePoint, but Google Sheets was built with online collaboration in mind from the start. This makes Sheets particularly user-friendly for teams that require multiple members to access and edit documents simultaneously.

In terms of cost, Excel is typically part of a paid Microsoft Office subscription, although it also offers a free online version with limited features. Google Sheets is available for free with a Google account, with additional functionality available through paid Google Workspace subscriptions. This difference can make Google Sheets more accessible for individuals and organizations with limited budgets.

Both Excel and Google Sheets offer integration with other apps and services. Excel integrates seamlessly with other Microsoft Office products, enhancing its utility in a Microsoft-centric environment. Google Sheets integrates with other Google services, such as Google Drive and Google Forms, facilitating workflows within the Google ecosystem.