Microsoft Excel is a powerful spreadsheet program, but it’s locked behind a subscription. If you’re looking for free spreadsheet software that supports .xlsx, offers formulas, charts, and collaboration features, these Excel alternatives will help you work efficiently—without spending a dime.
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1. Google Sheets
Google Sheets is the most popular free Excel alternative. It works in your browser, supports real-time collaboration, and is compatible with Excel files. You get access to hundreds of formulas, charts, add-ons, and even Google’s AI suggestions.
Best for: Teams needing cloud-based collaboration and Excel-style power.
2. LibreOffice Calc
LibreOffice Calc is part of the open-source LibreOffice suite. It works offline, supports advanced functions, pivot tables, and is highly compatible with Excel formats (.xls, .xlsx).
Best for: Users who want a free, full-featured desktop spreadsheet tool.
3. OnlyOffice Spreadsheet Editor
OnlyOffice offers a slick, Microsoft-like interface with strong Excel compatibility. It supports collaborative editing, conditional formatting, charts, and macros.
Best for: Those who want a modern UI with offline and cloud options.
4. WPS Office Spreadsheets
WPS Spreadsheets is part of the WPS Office Suite and includes template support, formula tools, and pivot tables. It’s lightweight and works well on Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS.
Best for: Users seeking a polished, Excel-style interface on all devices.
5. Apache OpenOffice Calc
OpenOffice Calc is another mature open-source alternative. While it’s not updated as frequently as LibreOffice, it still offers basic to advanced spreadsheet functions, charts, and support for Excel files.
Best for: Users on older systems who need offline spreadsheet editing.
6. Zoho Sheet
Zoho Sheet is a cloud-based spreadsheet app with real-time collaboration, charts, pivot tables, and Excel file compatibility. It’s free for personal use, with integrations to other Zoho business tools.
Best for: Small teams and businesses using cloud-based apps.
7. EtherCalc
EtherCalc is a real-time, collaborative, web-based spreadsheet tool. No sign-up is needed—just create a sheet and share the link. It lacks advanced features but is perfect for quick teamwork.
Best for: Instant collaboration on simple spreadsheets without login.
8. Gnumeric
Gnumeric is a lightweight and fast spreadsheet program for Linux (also works on Windows). It supports complex math, statistics, and financial functions, and works with Excel files.
Best for: Linux users needing a no-frills, math-friendly spreadsheet.
9. Quip (Free Tier)
Quip, by Salesforce, is a collaborative productivity tool combining documents, spreadsheets, and chat. It’s browser-based and supports formulas and charts, although more advanced features are paid.
Best for: Teams wanting communication + spreadsheet tools in one place.
10. Microsoft Excel for the Web (Free Version)
Yes, Microsoft offers Excel for free in the browser at Office.com. It has a familiar interface and supports most core functions, but lacks some advanced features.
Best for: Users who want the official Excel feel, free and online.
Choosing the Best Free Excel Alternative
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Prefer cloud collaboration? → Try Google Sheets, Zoho Sheet, or Quip
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Need a desktop replacement? → Go with LibreOffice Calc, OnlyOffice, or WPS Office
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Want something lightweight or Linux-based? → Use Gnumeric or OpenOffice Calc
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Need a quick, no-login solution? → Choose EtherCalc
All these tools offer free access to essential spreadsheet features—and some go beyond what Excel offers.
