Microsoft Excel vs Airtable Forms: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Microsoft Excel and Airtable Forms comes down to understanding what each tool does best. This comparison breaks down the key differences so you can make an informed decision based on your specific needs, not marketing claims.
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Microsoft Excel
Industry-standard spreadsheet software
Best for you if:
Airtable Forms
Forms in Airtable
Best for you if:
- • You want to try before committing
| At a Glance | ||
|---|---|---|
Price | Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | Productivity | Productivity |
Rating | —/100 | —/100 |
| Feature | Microsoft Excel | Airtable Forms |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Paid | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | — | — |
| Community Rating | ★★★★★4.8 | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 250 | 89 |
| Categories | Productivity | Productivity |
Understanding the Differences
Both Microsoft Excel and Airtable Forms solve similar problems, but they approach them differently.Microsoft Excel positions itself as "industry-standard spreadsheet software" while Airtable Formsfocuses on "forms in airtable". These differences matter depending on what you're trying to accomplish.
When to Choose Microsoft Excel
Microsoft Excel makes sense if you're looking for a comprehensive paid solution.
When to Choose Airtable Forms
Airtable Forms is worth considering if you need a flexible option with both free and paid tiers tool.
Who Should Use What?
Bootstrapped or small team?
Airtable Forms won't cost you anything to start, which is exactly what early-stage teams need.
We'd pick: Airtable Forms
Growing fast?
Your team doubled last quarter and you need tools that won't break when you add 50 more people. Airtable Forms is built for teams that are leveling up.
We'd pick: Airtable Forms
Enterprise with complex needs?
You need SSO, compliance certifications, and a support team that picks up the phone. Microsoft Excel is built for organizations like yours.
We'd pick: Microsoft Excel
Still not sure? Answer these 3 questions
How much can you spend?
Want to test first? Airtable Forms has a free tier to get you started.
Do you care what other users think?
Both have similar review counts. Read a few before you commit.
Expert opinion or crowd wisdom?
Our team rated Microsoft Excel higher (/100). But the community has upvoted Microsoft Excel more (250 votes). Pick your source of truth.
Key Takeaways
What Microsoft Excel Does Better
- More community upvotes
- Our recommendation for most use cases
Consider Airtable Forms If
- You want to start free and scale later
- Its specific features better match your workflow
- You prefer its interface or design approach
The Bottom Line
If we had to pick one, we'd go with Microsoft Excel. But the honest answer is that "better" depends on your situation. Microsoft Excel scores higher in our analysis, but Airtable Forms might be the right choice if its specific strengths align with what you need most. Take advantage of free trials to test both before committing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Microsoft Excel or Airtable Forms better?
Based on our analysis, Microsoft Excel scores higher with high/100. Microsoft Excel ispaid while Airtable Forms is freemium. The best choice depends on your specific needs and budget. We recommend testing both with free trials if available.
Can I switch from Microsoft Excel to Airtable Forms easily?
Migration difficulty varies. Check if both tools support data export/import in compatible formats. Some tools offer migration assistance or have integration partners who can help with the transition.
Do Microsoft Excel and Airtable Forms offer free trials?
Most software in this category offers free trials or free tiers. Microsoft Excel is paid with potential trial.Airtable Forms is freemium with a free tier. Visit their websites for current trial offers.