This comprehensive guide reviews the top 7 free Excel alternatives for 2025, focusing on accessibility, usability, and feature sets. It covers both open source Excel alternatives like LibreOffice and OnlyOffice, and cloud-based programs like Excel such as Google Sheets and Zoho Sheet. Designed for users seeking cost-effective yet robust software similar to Excel, the blog details pros, cons, use cases, and additional productivity tools to enhance your spreadsheet workflow. Ideal for professionals, students, and remote teams looking to boost efficiency without paying for Excel.
In today’s fast-paced digital world, data management is crucial. Whether you're crunching numbers, building budgets, tracking sales, or collaborating on a business project, Microsoft Excel has been the go-to spreadsheet software for decades. However, it’s not always the most accessible or cost-effective choice. Subscriptions can be expensive, and not everyone needs all of Excel's advanced features.
If you're a student, entrepreneur, freelancer, or small business owner looking for a free Excel alternative, you’re in the right place. From open source Excel alternatives to cloud-based programs like Excel, this guide dives deep into the best options available in 2025.
Let’s break down each tool—its strengths, use cases, and how it compares to Excel—so you can find the right fit for your spreadsheet needs.
Why Look for Free Excel Alternatives?
Before diving into our list, let’s understand why you might want a replacement for Excel.
1. Cost Constraints
Excel requires a Microsoft 365 subscription that can range from $69.99/year for individuals to $150+/year for business plans. If you're on a tight budget or only use spreadsheets occasionally, paying for Excel may not be practical.
2. Platform Limitations
Excel doesn't always perform seamlessly across different operating systems. While the desktop app is robust, the web version lacks some key features. If you're on Linux or ChromeOS, compatibility becomes even more complicated.
3. Collaboration Needs
Real-time collaboration in Excel is available but not as intuitive as in some modern tools. If you're managing teams or remote work, cloud-native solutions often offer better collaboration experiences.
4. Simplicity and Usability
Excel is feature-rich, but not everyone needs its complexity. Simpler alternatives can help you work faster and more intuitively.
1. Google Sheets – The Best Free Excel Alternative Overall
Google Sheets is a part of Google Workspace (formerly G Suite) and one of the most popular free Excel alternatives today. It's an excellent option for real-time collaboration and online data management.
Who It’s For:
- Remote teams
- Students
- Freelancers
- Anyone using Gmail or Google Drive
Key Features:
- Real-time editing by multiple users
- Integration with Google Forms, Docs, and Drive
- Explore feature for smart data analysis
- App Script for automation
- Add-ons for specialized functionality
Notable Functions:
- QUERY, IMPORTXML, FILTER, and ARRAYFORMULA functions add powerful capabilities.
- Built-in chart builder and pivot tables for analysis
Pros:
- 100% cloud-based and accessible from anywhere
- Auto-save feature prevents data loss
- Seamless sharing with permission controls
Cons:
- Offline mode is limited unless configured
- Handling very large data sets can cause lags
- Some Excel macros and advanced VBA functions aren't compatible
Google Sheets is particularly great for users already integrated into the Google ecosystem. Whether you're sharing a class project or managing sales data with your team, it delivers functionality and convenience.
2. LibreOffice Calc – Powerful Open Source Excel Alternative
LibreOffice Calc is part of the LibreOffice suite, a fully open source Excel alternative that's particularly attractive for advanced users who prefer offline software.
Who It’s For:
- Power users
- Data analysts
- Privacy-conscious users
Key Features:
- Full support for XLS, XLSX, CSV, and other formats
- Scenario Manager for data simulations
- DataPilot (similar to Pivot Tables)
- Macro support via BASIC, Python, and other languages
- Extensive charting and graphing tools
Extended Capabilities:
- Custom styles and formatting
- Multiple user interface options (classic, tabbed, etc.)
- Function Wizard with extensive documentation
Pros:
- No internet required; runs locally
- Compatible with a wide range of file formats
- No ads or proprietary restrictions
Cons:
- Collaboration requires third-party cloud syncing (e.g., Nextcloud)
- Interface may look outdated to some users
- Steeper learning curve for new users
LibreOffice Calc is ideal for users who want to take full control of their spreadsheets without relying on cloud infrastructure. It’s also perfect for developers and IT professionals looking to integrate custom functions.
3. WPS Office Spreadsheets – Stylish and User-Friendly Excel Clone
WPS Office is a full office suite developed by Kingsoft and includes a spreadsheet tool that mirrors Excel’s interface almost exactly. Its mobile-friendly features make it one of the most popular programs like Excel for Android and iOS.
Who It’s For:
- Students
- Mobile users
- Budget-conscious users who want a modern UI
Key Features:
- Excel-like tabbed interface
- Built-in templates for calendars, invoices, resumes
- Formula bar with function hints
- Cloud sync with 1GB of free storage
Extended Capabilities:
- PDF to Excel conversion
- Document encryption
- Multi-language support
Pros:
- Familiar layout reduces learning time
- Lightweight and fast
- Cross-platform: works on Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS
Cons:
- Free version includes occasional ads
- Some features locked behind the premium plan
WPS is best for casual users and students who want something that feels like Excel but without the cost. Its template gallery is especially handy for managing basic personal and professional tasks.
4. Zoho Sheet – Collaborative Software Similar to Excel
Zoho Sheet is a robust spreadsheet tool that forms part of Zoho’s cloud office suite. It’s an excellent software similar to Excel with a strong focus on automation and business intelligence.
Who It’s For:
- Businesses and startups
- Remote teams
- Project managers
Key Features:
- Over 350 built-in functions
- AI-powered data cleaning tool (Zia)
- Conditional formatting, pivot tables, and charts
- In-cell commenting and threaded discussions
Extended Capabilities:
- Integration with Zoho CRM, Zoho Projects, and external APIs
- Automated workflows and triggers
- Version history and rollback
Pros:
- Offers enterprise-level features for free
- Excellent for real-time collaboration
- Extensive integration capabilities
Cons:
- Somewhat steep learning curve
- Limited offline support
Zoho Sheet is perfect for professionals who need more than just basic spreadsheets. It’s a fantastic choice for organizations looking to centralize data and automate processes.
5. OnlyOffice – Secure and Open Source Excel Alternative
OnlyOffice is another great open source Excel alternative with an emphasis on security, team collaboration, and privacy. It’s especially useful for businesses that want to self-host their tools.
Who It’s For:
- IT administrators
- Startups
- Privacy-first organizations
Key Features:
- Full compatibility with Microsoft Office formats
- Real-time collaboration and co-editing
- Integration with Nextcloud, ownCloud, and Seafile
Advanced Features:
- Customizable server installation
- User access controls
- Collaboration chats and change tracking
Pros:
- Clean, modern interface
- Open source and self-hostable
- Excellent compatibility and control
Cons:
- Setup may require technical knowledge
- Smaller community than LibreOffice
OnlyOffice is great for organizations concerned with data sovereignty or compliance. It’s also a viable solution for businesses looking for an Office 365 alternative that works both online and offline.
6. EtherCalc – Lightweight Online Spreadsheet Tool
EtherCalc is a minimalist, real-time collaborative spreadsheet editor. It doesn't offer flashy features but delivers exactly what it promises: simple spreadsheets in your browser, no registration needed.
Who It’s For:
- Educators
- Event organizers
- Hackathon or workshop hosts
Key Features:
- One-click spreadsheet creation
- Share via simple URL
- Simultaneous editing
- No downloads required
Pros:
- Open source
- Zero setup or sign-up
- Great for ad-hoc collaboration
Cons:
- Basic UI
- No file import/export features beyond CSV
- Minimal formatting or analytics tools
EtherCalc is best used as a lightweight alternative for quick collaboration or educational settings. It’s not suitable for long-term or high-complexity data management.
7. Airtable – Spreadsheet Meets Database
Airtable blends the familiarity of a spreadsheet with the power of a database, offering a flexible and visual way to manage data.
Who It’s For:
- Project managers
- Creatives
- Marketers
Key Features:
- Views: grid, calendar, Kanban, gallery
- Linking records across tables
- Drag-and-drop organization
- Pre-built templates for content calendars, product inventories, and CRM
Extended Capabilities:
- Integration with tools like Slack, Gmail, and Zapier
- Automations for workflow triggers
- Airtable Apps (charts, maps, timelines)
Pros:
- Highly customizable
- Intuitive design for visual thinkers
- Extensive library of templates
Cons:
- Limited record count in free plan
- Slight learning curve for database-style design
If you're managing content, inventory, or projects, Airtable offers a more flexible solution than traditional spreadsheets.
Productivity Add-ons to Maximize Efficiency
To enhance your productivity while using these Excel alternatives, consider some workspace upgrades:
- For posture and space efficiency, consider the best office chair for small space
- Keep your wrists comfortable with an underdesk tray
- Want to digitize brainstorming or planning? Check out the smart whiteboard cost
- Need a better messaging app for teamwork? See the best text program for android
FAQs About Free Excel Alternatives
What is the most powerful free Excel alternative?
LibreOffice Calc is arguably the most powerful in terms of functionality and Excel compatibility, especially for offline users.
Which free spreadsheet software is best for collaboration?
Google Sheets and Zoho Sheet are the top choices for real-time teamwork.
Can I open Excel files in these alternatives?
Yes. Most tools on this list support XLS and XLSX formats, especially WPS, LibreOffice, OnlyOffice, and Google Sheets.
Are these Excel alternatives safe to use?
Absolutely. Reputable tools like Google Sheets, LibreOffice, and Airtable prioritize data security. Open source tools like OnlyOffice give you full control over data hosting.
Which tool is best for mobile?
WPS Spreadsheets and Google Sheets are excellent mobile-friendly options.
Conclusion: Find the Right Excel Alternative for Your Needs
You don’t need to break the bank to access high-quality spreadsheet tools in 2025. Whether you're an individual user or part of a larger organization, there's a tool tailored to your specific needs:
- For casual users: Google Sheets or WPS
- For power users: LibreOffice Calc or OnlyOffice
- For teams: Zoho Sheet or Google Sheets
- For creatives/project managers: Airtable
And here is a quick comparison table:
| Tool | Type | Collaboration | Offline Access | Excel File Support | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Google Sheets | Cloud-based | ✅ Real-time | ⚠️ Limited | ✅ Full Support | Teams & Remote Work |
| LibreOffice | Open source desktop | ❌ (manual) | ✅ Yes | ✅ Full Support | Advanced Users & Privacy |
| WPS Spreadsheets | Freemium desktop/cloud | ✅ Basic | ✅ Yes | ✅ Full Support | Mobile Users & Students |
| Zoho Sheet | Cloud-based | ✅ Real-time | ⚠️ Limited | ✅ Good Support | Businesses & Automation |
| OnlyOffice | Open source (self-hosted or cloud) | ✅ Real-time | ✅ Yes | ✅ Full Support | Secure Collaboration |
| EtherCalc | Lightweight Web Tool | ✅ Real-time | ❌ No | ⚠️ Limited (CSV) | Quick Collaboration |
| Airtable | Spreadsheet/Database | ✅ Real-time | ⚠️ Limited | ⚠️ Partial Support | Project Management & Visual Planning |
These free Excel alternatives, from open source tools to software similar to Excel, allow you to manage, analyze, and collaborate on data without a premium price tag.
Try a few, experiment with features, and you’ll soon find the one that fits your workflow like a glove.
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