Microsoft Excel vs Rows: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between Microsoft Excel and Rows 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.
Bottom line: Microsoft Excel is our overall pick for spreadsheets workflows. Pick Rows if you need a free tier to start with.
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
Rows
The spreadsheet where data comes to life, integrating with business tools and automating workflows.
Best for you if:
- • Connects spreadsheets directly to business tools for real-time data.
- • Automates data import and workflows.
| At a Glance |  Microsoft Excel |  Rows |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | FreeFree tier available | FreeFree tier available |
Best For | Spreadsheets | Spreadsheets |
Rating | 4.7/5 | 4.7/5 |
Free plan | Yes | Yes |
Choose Microsoft Excel or Rows?
Choose Microsoft Excel if
Industry-standard spreadsheet software
- Industry standard
- Most powerful features
- Excellent for complex analysis
- Budget matters (Free vs Free)
Choose Rows if
The spreadsheet where data comes to life, integrating with business tools and automating workflows.
- Spreadsheet with superpowers
- Data integrations
- Good for analysis
| Feature | Microsoft Excel | Rows |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| User Rating | ★4.7/5 3,043 reviews | ★4.7/5 25 reviews |
| Categories | SpreadsheetsProductivity | SpreadsheetsData & Databases |
In-Depth Analysis
Microsoft Excel
Industry-standard spreadsheet software
Strengths
- +Industry standard
- +Most powerful features
- +Excellent for complex analysis
- +VBA automation
- +Universal compatibility
Weaknesses
- -Requires Microsoft 365 subscription
- -Can be complex for beginners
- -Large file sizes
- -Performance with big datasets
Key features
Rows
The spreadsheet where data comes to life, integrating with business tools and automating workflows.
Strengths
- +Spreadsheet with superpowers
- +Data integrations
- +Good for analysis
- +Active development
- +Fair pricing
Weaknesses
- -Learning curve
- -Limited vs Excel
- -Row limits
- -Feature gaps
- -Better for specific uses
Key features
Pricing: Microsoft Excel vs Rows
| Plan | Microsoft Excel | Rows |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | Free Excel Online | Free Free |
| Tier 2 | $6.99 month Microsoft 365 Personal | $15 Plus |
| Tier 3 | $12.99 month Microsoft 365 Family | $22 Pro |
Pricing verified from each vendor's public pricing page. Compare in detail on Microsoft Excel pricing and Rows pricing.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are freemium. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Microsoft Excel
Want the highest-rated option?
Microsoft Excel: 4.7/5 (3,043 reviews). Rows: 4.7/5 (25 reviews).
Go with: Microsoft Excel
Value user reviews?
Microsoft Excel: 3,043 reviews (4.7/5). Rows: 25 reviews (4.7/5).
Go with: Microsoft Excel
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Both are freemium. Pricing won't help you decide here.
What's your use case?
Both are spreadsheets tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
Both are rated 4.7/5.
Key Takeaways
Microsoft Excel
- Larger review base (3,043 reviews)
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Rows
- Choose if you want the spreadsheet where data comes to life, integrating with business tools and automating workflows
The Bottom Line
Microsoft Excel is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Microsoft Excel or Rows better?
Microsoft Excel is rated in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are Microsoft Excel and Rows used for?
Microsoft Excel: Industry-standard spreadsheet software. Rows: The spreadsheet where data comes to life, integrating with business tools and automating workflows..
What does Microsoft Excel cost vs Rows?
Microsoft Excel is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Rows is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.