Qlik vs Microsoft Power BI: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Qlik and Microsoft Power BI 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 February 28, 2026 · Methodology
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Qlik
AI-powered analytics and robust data integration solutions for enterprise organizations.
Best for you if:
- • Provides a unified platform for AI-powered analytics and robust data integration.
- • Offers Qlik Cloud Analytics for data exploration, visualization, and AI-driven insights with Qlik Answers.
Microsoft Power BI
Business analytics service
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.8/10 vs 8.4/10)
- • Microsoft BI for everyone
- • Excel-like interface, enterprise power
| At a Glance |  Qlik |  Microsoft Power BI |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | Business Intelligence | Business Intelligence |
Rating | 84/100 | 88/100 |
| Feature | Qlik | Microsoft Power BI |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 84 | 88 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Business IntelligenceData Visualization | Business IntelligenceData Visualization |
How Qlik and Microsoft Power BI Compare
Qlik
AI-powered analytics and robust data integration solutions for enterprise organizations.
Free tier available · 84/100 score
Microsoft Power BI
Business analytics service
Free tier available · 88/100 score
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are freemium. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Qlik
Want the highest-rated option?
Qlik: 84/100. Microsoft Power BI: 88/100.
Go with: Microsoft Power BI
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Microsoft Power BI
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 business intelligence tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
Microsoft Power BI scores higher: 88/100 vs 84/100.
Key Takeaways
Microsoft Power BI
- Higher score: 88/100 vs 84
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Qlik
The Bottom Line
Microsoft Power BI (88/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Qlik or Microsoft Power BI better?
Microsoft Power BI scores 88/100 in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are Qlik and Microsoft Power BI used for?
Qlik: AI-powered analytics and robust data integration solutions for enterprise organizations.. Microsoft Power BI: Business analytics service.
What does Qlik cost vs Microsoft Power BI?
Qlik is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Microsoft Power BI is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.