Google Sheets is the best cloud-based spreadsheet application that helps users organize and analyze huge datasets. It is empowered by many unique features such as automatic backups, real-time collaboration, accessibility, etc.
But a few times, users may feel that it is not the right program due to the following reasons:
- Lack of advanced functions
- A limited number of charts and graphs
- Performance issues caused by huge dataset
If you are looking for the best Google Sheets alternatives, then you have come to the right place.
This is an in-depth guide about the top Google Sheets alternatives, both paid and free. We will discuss the key features and benefits of each application, so make sure to read the article until the end.
Why do you need the best alternative to Google Sheets?
Google Sheets is one of the top spreadsheet applications for small to medium-sized data analysis and real-time collaboration.
On top of everything, the spreadsheet application is totally free for personal use. All you need is a free Gmail account.
While it is excellent for basic data management and collaboration, it might not offer everything you need for advanced data analysis and workflow automation.
Here are some reasons why you may need the best alternatives to Google Sheets:
1. Performance (Calculation Lag)
In contrast to popular spreadsheet applications, Google Sheets cannot handle massive datasets, including thousands of rows and columns, when you perform calculations.
Simply put, computational speed is low compared to spreadsheet applications like Excel.
2. Data Visualization
Google Sheets offers a handful of charts and graphs. You will have access to line charts, bar graphs, pie charts, etc.
The list is not as comprehensive as offered by other spreadsheet applications including Microsoft Excel.
3. Keyboard Shortcuts
You need to access Google Sheets using a browser on both desktop and mobile devices. It means that when you press a key on your keyboard as a shortcut, it may confuse browsers and Google Sheets.
The solution is to configure the keyboard shortcuts for both browser and Google Sheets manually to avoid confusion.
4. Statistical Functions
Google Sheets boast 514 built-in functions. The count is quite high compared to even the giants like Microsoft Excel.
However, when it comes to data analysis, it lacks a few advanced statistical functions available in Microsoft Excel and other spreadsheet applications.
Top 6 Google Sheets Alternatives for Mac & Windows in 2024
There are lots of other options that may be a better fit for you, depending on your unique requirements.
Google Sheets is the top spreadsheet application for Mac users because it’s both free and gets the job done quickly. But for some reason you are looking for an alternative, then here you go.
Here are our top picks:
- Microsoft Excel – Best Overall Google Sheets Alternative
- Zoho Sheets – Best Alternative with CRM Apps Integration
- Airtable – Best Built-in Alternative for Customizable Databases
- JotForm Tables – Best Alternative for Data Collection and Organization
- AirFocus – Best Alternative for Project Management and Prioritization
- Coda – Best for Building Customizable Documents and Workflows
The above list includes both free and paid alternatives. Let us discuss all of them in detail.
1. Microsoft Excel – Best Overall Google Sheets Alternative
Microsoft Excel is one of the most well-known spreadsheet applications used by millions across the world.
It is one of the best Google Sheets alternatives for anyone looking for an advanced tool to organize and analyze complex datasets.
Key Features
- Advanced Data Analysis – Microsoft Excel offers many data analysis features that surpass every spreadsheet application on this list. It comes with advanced functions and complex formulas that work like a charm. You will definitely love Pivot Table and Power Query, which can make data analysis much easier.
- Extensive Customization Options – Excel offers extensive customization options, including Conditional formatting, ready-to-use table formats and cell styles, and more. Such features help users create highly professional-looking reports.
- Powerful Automation with Macros – You can easily automate manual tasks, develop custom formulas, and streamline complex processes with the help of VBA (Visual Basic for Applications).
- Comprehensive Reporting and Visualization – There is a wide range of reporting and visualization tools in Excel. It includes charts, graphs, and similar built-in dashboards. Using these, users can create detailed financial reports that impress everyone.
- Integration with Other Microsoft Tools – Microsoft Excel integrates seamlessly with other Microsoft Office applications like Word and PowerPoint. You can also pair the capabilities of Excel with professional services like Microsoft Teams and SharePoint. It aims at smooth data transfer and collaboration to enhance productivity and workflow efficiency.
Pros
- Easily accessible via web, desktop, and smartphone
- A vast gallery of customizable Excel templates
- Includes advanced formulas like XLOOKUP
- Can handle massive datasets with thousands of rows and columns
- Better for complex calculations and analysis
Cons
- No free version is available
- Sometimes compatibility issues hinder real-time collaboration
- Advanced features are limited to Office 365 subscribers
Pricing
Excel is a part of Microsoft Office suite apps.
You can purchase it separately as a standalone license for the price of $159.99 per desktop. It will give you lifetime access to the tool.
On the other hand, you can purchase monthly or yearly Microsoft or Office Subscription to access Excel.
Family and Personal Use Plans,
- Microsoft 365 Personal – $6.99 per month and $69.99 per year
- Microsoft 365 Family – $9.99 per month and $99.99 per year
The Family plan includes access to 6 users and 1TB of storage per user.
You can choose any of the above plans on a monthly and yearly basis. If you choose a yearly plan, it will save you up to 16.5%.
Business Plans,
- Basic – It starts at $6 per user per month
- Business – It starts at $8.25 per user per month
- Standard – It starts at $12.50 per user per month
- Premium – It starts at $19.80 per user per month
All Business plan subscriptions come with a custom email and 1TB of cloud storage per user. For their added price tags, you will get advanced security, cyber threat protection, control access, priority customer customer support, etc.
2. Zoho Sheets – Best Alternative with CRM Apps Integration
Zoho offers powerful CRM tools to take your lead generation and business management to the next level. The Zoho Sheets has become one of the best Google Sheets alternatives in recent years.
Key Features
- Team Collaboration – Zoho Sheets allows multiple users to collaborate in real time. They can view and edit spreadsheets simultaneously. All edits are recorded and can be accessed by the owners with a few simple clicks.
- Accessibility – Similar to Google Sheets, the Zoho Sheets is a web-based software that can be accessed from anywhere in the world. Note that you need an active internet connection to view and edit Zoho Sheets.
- AI Assistant – Zia, an AI-powered intelligent assistant, takes your data organization and visualization to the next level. It automatically generates graphs based on the input data. It also answers complex questions about your data and provides valuable insights to boost your reporting capabilities.
- Integration – The program can be easily integrated with 1000+ applications from Zoho and other third-party providers. It empowers users with next-level data management that boosts business growth like never before.
Pros
- Free to use
- Intuitive user interface
- Short learning curve
- Excellent spreadsheet program for data visualization
- AI-powered assistant generates beautiful and comprehensive graphs
- Advanced team collaboration
- Cell-locking prevents users from editing specific cells
- Supports most popular spreadsheet file formats such as .xlsx, .csv, .ods, etc.
Cons
- Offline editing is not supported
Pricing
Users can use Zoho Sheets and all its features for free without any limitations.
3. Airtable – Best for Project Management
Airtable combines the capabilities of a spreadsheet application with a database. You can easily create a robust database within a few seconds.
It is an operational spreadsheet, but it offers tons more in terms of functionality, which makes it a powerful alternative to traditional spreadsheets like Google Sheets.
Key Features
- Customizable Databases – Airtable allows you to create highly customizable databases with fields for text, numbers, attachments, checkboxes, and more. You can organize your data in many ways to fit your needs.
- Real-time Collaboration – Any number of users can collaborate in real time. Changes made by the users are synced immediately across all devices. Owners can assign roles and manage tasks assigned to users within the platform.
- Views and Filters – Airtable offers different views like Grid, Calendar, Kanban, and Gallery, which helps in easy visualization of your data. You can use filters to focus on specific information without wasting much time in sorting large datasets.
- Integration – This platform can integrate with over 1000 platforms like Google Workspace, Slack, and Trello, thereby enabling smooth data exchange and collaboration.
- Numerous Templates – Airtable offers a range of pre-built templates to help you get started quickly. This can even save you a lot of time.
- Automation – Its automation features, like creating triggers and actions, help save time by automating repetitive processes and enhancing productivity.
Pros
- Highly customizable and versatile
- Offers Real-time collaboration
- Multiple view options for data management
- Easy-to-use and clean interface
- Integrates with numerous apps and tools
Cons
- The free plan has limited features
- It is expensive for growing teams and large datasets
- It can be a bit complex for users accustomed to traditional spreadsheets
- Low record, storage, and collaborator limits
Pricing
Airtable offers a free plan with basic features. But the paid plans start at $10 per user per month. A paid subscription boasts advanced customization, enhanced collaboration tools, and more storage space.
4. JotForm Tables – Best Alternative for Data Collection and Organization
JotForm Tables is an all-in-one workspace designed to help users collect, organize, and manage data efficiently.
It combines the flexibility of a spreadsheet tool with the functionality of a form builder.
Note that the Jotform Tables are an excellent choice for users who need to gather data from various sources and keep it organized in one place.
Key Features
- Integrated Data Collection – Jotform Tables seamlessly integrates with Jotform’s powerful form builder, which allows you to automatically collect data from different forms and populate it directly into your tables. This can be useful while conducting surveys, collecting orders and registrations, and gathering feedback without any manual data entry.
- Customizable Table Views – This platform offers various table views, such as Card, Grid, Calendar, and Report views, helping in easy display and simple analysis of data based on your preferences. You can quickly switch between views to gain different insights and manage data more effectively.
- Collaboration Tools – JotForm tables support real-time collaboration, enabling multiple users to access, edit, and comment on data simultaneously. You can assign tasks, set permissions, and track changes to ensure smooth teamwork and efficient data management.
- Data Security – This platform provides robust security features, including data encryption and password protection, ensuring your information is secure.
Pros
- Easy integration with online forms for data collection
- Real-time collaboration and task assignment
- Strong security and privacy features
- Simple, user-friendly interface
- Automation tools to streamline workflows
Cons
- Limited offline access
- Very low storage limits
- Relatively expensive
- Some users report duplicate entries on forms
- Advanced features available only for paid users
Pricing
Jotform Tables offers a free plan with basic features. Its paid plans start at $34 per month, providing additional capabilities like higher storage limits, advanced integrations, and more customization options.
5. AirFocus – Best Alternative for Product Management and Prioritization
AirFocus is one the best alternatives for Google Sheets when it comes to prioritizing tasks, managing projects, and collaborating more effectively.
It combines the capabilities of a spreadsheet application with a product management tool.
It is focused on teams looking for a reliable tool for strategic planning and decision-making.
Key Features
- Customizable Prioritization Frameworks – AirFocus offers an impressive prioritization framework that helps teams to rank tasks, features, or projects based on specific criteria like cost, and priority. It helps your team make data-driven decisions and focus on high-priority tasks.
- Dynamic Roadmapping – Using this platform, users can create visual product roadmaps that can be easily shared with stakeholders. These roadmaps help teams align with the goals, timelines, and progress.
- Collaboration and Feedback – AirFocus features real-time collaboration. It boasts features such as voting and commenting for advanced collaboration. Such feedback tools help team members and stakeholders in decision-making.
- Integration – This platform integrates with many popular tools, including Jira, Trello, Asana, and Slack, allowing seamless data flow and collaboration across different platforms. Integration capabilities allow easy synchronization of workflows. The goal is to help the entire team stay on top of the projects at hand.
Pros
- Impressive team collaboration tools to make sure everyone is on the same page throughout the project lifecycle
- Produces high-quality visuals for clearer presentation
- Easy integration with popular tools
- Templates and custom views for efficient visualization
- Intuitive interface for beginners
Cons
- Limited features in the free plan
- Requires some learning before using it
- Options for exporting and customizing are somewhat limited, potentially hampering flexible data handling
Pricing
Pricing begins at $69 per editor per month; further pricing details for Pro and Enterprise packages require direct inquiries to their sales team.
6. Coda – Best for Building Customizable Documents and Workflows
Coda is another beautiful alternative platform that combines the functionalities of documents, spreadsheets, and applications into a single, powerful workspace.
It is a very useful tool for those who need a flexible tool to create dynamic documents, manage workflows, and collaborate effectively with their teams.
Key Features
- All-in-One Workspace – Coda blends the features of documents, spreadsheets, and databases, allowing users to create interactive files that include text, tables, images, and multimedia. This feature helps teams to centralize their work into a single platform.
- Collaboration Tools – This platform supports real-time collaboration, allowing team members to edit, comment, and share documents simultaneously. It also offers version history features to ensure transparency.
- Customizable Building Blocks – Coda provides building blocks like tables, buttons, and formulas, using which users can create a customized workflow as per their needs. This feature helps to streamline the process and manage data more efficiently.
- Integration – Just like most of the competitors, Coda seamlessly integrates with a range of third-party tools like Slack, Google Calendar, and Jira through “Packs”. This enables users to connect their Coda documents with external applications for a smooth data flow.
Pros
- Highly customizable with building blocks and templates
- Real-time collaboration and version control features
- Includes immediate messaging tools while keeping each project in one place
- Integrates with various third-party tools
- Automation tools for streamlining repetitive tasks
- Easy-to-use interface
Cons
- Limited Offline access
- Advanced features may require some prior learning
Pricing
There is a flat-rate billing set at $15 per user monthly, which suits freelancers and comes with limited features. For advanced users, a Pro plan priced at $299 per month is the best fit.
To Summarize: Best Google Sheets Alternative
That’s all! You have made it to the end.
Google Sheets is the best cloud-based spreadsheet application out there. It is used by millions of users around the world. However, sometimes it makes sense to use other software such as Excel, AirFocus, Zoho Sheets, Airtable, Coda, etc.
There are tens of spreadsheet software in the market. But it all boils down to your unique needs, including basic editing, data visualization, team collaboration, project or task management, and more.
Feel free to comment below if we are missing any fantastic Google Sheets alternatives.
Also, explore our blog section for tips and tricks to use Google Sheets and Microsoft Excel like a pro.