Microsoft Power BI vs Hex: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Microsoft Power BI and Hex 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 Power BI
Business analytics service
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.8/10 vs 8.6/10)
- • Microsoft BI for everyone
- • Excel-like interface, enterprise power
Hex
Collaborative data workspace for analytics
Best for you if:
- • Hex is a collaborative data science platform combining SQL, Python, and visualization
- • It provides notebooks, scheduling, and sharing for modern analytics workflows
| At a Glance |  Microsoft Power BI |  Hex |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | Business Intelligence | Business Intelligence |
Rating | 88/100 | 86/100 |
| Feature | Microsoft Power BI | Hex |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 88 | 86 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Business IntelligenceData Visualization | Business IntelligenceData Visualization |
Understanding the Differences
Both Microsoft Power BI and Hex solve similar problems, but they approach them differently.Microsoft Power BI positions itself as "business analytics service" while Hexfocuses on "collaborative data workspace for analytics". These differences matter depending on what you're trying to accomplish.
When to Choose Microsoft Power BI
Microsoft Power BI makes sense if you're looking for a budget-friendly option with a free tier solution. With a score of 88/100, it's our top pick in this comparison.
When to Choose Hex
Hex is worth considering if you need a flexible option with both free and paid tiers tool.
Who Should Use What?
Bootstrapped or small team?
When every dollar counts, Microsoft Power BI lets you get started without pulling out your credit card.
We'd pick: Microsoft Power BI
Growing fast?
Your team doubled last quarter and you need tools that won't break when you add 50 more people. Microsoft Power BI handles scale better in our testing.
We'd pick: Microsoft Power BI
Enterprise with complex needs?
You need SSO, compliance certifications, and a support team that picks up the phone. Both have enterprise tiers—compare their security features.
We'd pick: Microsoft Power BI
Still not sure? Answer these 3 questions
How much can you spend?
Tight budget? Start free with Microsoft Power BI, upgrade when you're ready.
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 Power BI higher (88/100). But the community has upvoted Hex more (0 votes). Pick your source of truth.
Key Takeaways
What Microsoft Power BI Does Better
- Higher overall score (88/100)
- Our recommendation for most use cases
Consider Hex 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 Power BI (88/100). But the honest answer is that "better" depends on your situation. Microsoft Power BI scores higher in our analysis, but Hex 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 Power BI or Hex better?
Based on our analysis, Microsoft Power BI scores higher with 88/100. Microsoft Power BI isfreemium while Hex 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 Power BI to Hex 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 Power BI and Hex offer free trials?
Most software in this category offers free trials or free tiers. Microsoft Power BI is freemium with a free tier.Hex is freemium with a free tier. Visit their websites for current trial offers.