Microsoft Excel vs Google Sheets: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Microsoft Excel and Google Sheets 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.
By Toolradar Team · Last updated April 14, 2026 · Methodology
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:
- • Industry-standard spreadsheet
- • Most powerful analysis features
Google Sheets
Create, edit, and collaborate on spreadsheets online, for free.
Best for you if:
- • You need something completely free
- • Free, web-based spreadsheet program.
- • Real-time collaboration and automatic saving.
| At a Glance |  Microsoft Excel |  Google Sheets |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free |
Best For | Data Visualization | Data Visualization |
Rating | — | — |
| Feature | Microsoft Excel | Google Sheets |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Free |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Data VisualizationFinancial Planning | Data VisualizationForm Builders |
How Microsoft Excel and Google Sheets Compare
Microsoft Excel
Industry-standard spreadsheet software
Free tier available
Google Sheets
Create, edit, and collaborate on spreadsheets online, for free.
Free
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Google Sheets is free. Microsoft Excel is freemium.
Go with: Google Sheets
Want the highest-rated option?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Microsoft Excel
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Microsoft Excel
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Microsoft Excel is freemium. Google Sheets is free. Go with Google Sheets if free matters most.
What's your use case?
Both are data visualization tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Key Takeaways
Microsoft Excel
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Google Sheets
- Completely free
The Bottom Line
Microsoft Excel is our pick. That said, Google Sheets is free — hard to beat on price.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Microsoft Excel or Google Sheets better?
Microsoft Excel is rated high in our evaluation. Microsoft Excel is freemium and Google Sheets is free.
What are Microsoft Excel and Google Sheets used for?
Microsoft Excel: Industry-standard spreadsheet software. Google Sheets: Create, edit, and collaborate on spreadsheets online, for free..
What does Microsoft Excel cost vs Google Sheets?
Microsoft Excel is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Google Sheets is completely free. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.