Spreadsheets are the backbone of modern data analysis, budgeting, reporting, and decision-making. Whether you’re a business owner, financial analyst, teacher, or student, the right spreadsheet software can boost your productivity, accuracy, and collaboration. As of 2025, here are the top spreadsheet applications that stand out in terms of features, performance, and use case suitability.

 

1. Microsoft Excel

• Best for: Advanced data analysis and business use
• Platform: Windows, Mac, Web, iOS, Android
• Pricing: Part of Microsoft 365 (starts at $6.99/month for individuals)
• Key Features:
• Powerful formula engine and pivot tables
• Charts, graphs, and conditional formatting
• Power Query and Power Pivot for large data
• VBA scripting and Office Script for automation
• Integration with Microsoft Teams and Power BI

Why it stands out:
Excel remains the gold standard for professional-grade spreadsheets. It's ideal for finance teams, analysts, and anyone working with large or complex datasets.

 

 

2. Google Sheets

Best for: Real-time collaboration and cloud-based access

Platform: Web, iOS, Android

Pricing: Free with a Google account; Google Workspace plans start at $6/month

 

Key Features:

• Real-time editing and commenting
• Seamless collaboration with sharing controls
• Built-in AI features like “Explore”
• Easy integration with Google Forms, Apps Script, and APIs
• Add-ons and third-party plugins

 

Why it stands out:
Google Sheets is perfect for teams working remotely or in collaborative environments. It's lightweight, constantly updated, and accessible from anywhere.

 

3. Apple Numbers

• Best for: Mac and iOS users with simple spreadsheet needs
• Platform: macOS, iOS, iCloud
• Pricing: Free on Apple devices

Key Features:

• Clean and visual interface
• Real-time collaboration through iCloud
• Pre-designed templates
• Seamless syncing across Apple devices
• Easy chart creation and formatting

Why it stands out:
Numbers is excellent for Apple users who want aesthetically pleasing spreadsheets without the need for complex functions or massive datasets.

 

4. Zoho Sheet

• Best for: Cloud-based enterprise spreadsheets with automation
• Platform: Web, iOS, Android
• Pricing: Free with Zoho account; Business plans with Zoho One

Key Features:

• Smart data cleaning tools
• Real-time collaboration
• Extensive formula library
• VBA-compatible macros
• AI-powered data analysis and chart recommendations

Why it stands out:
Zoho Sheet is a strong alternative to Google Sheets with added AI and automation features, especially for businesses using the Zoho ecosystem.

 

5. LibreOffice Calc

• Best for: Offline use and open-source flexibility
• Platform: Windows, macOS, Linux
• Pricing: Free and open-source

Key Features:

• Compatible with Excel files (.xls and .xlsx)
• DataPilot (pivot table) and chart tools
• Scripting support (Python, Basic, JavaScript)
• No internet required

Why it stands out:
LibreOffice Calc is a powerful free option for those who want offline access and full control over their software environment.

 

6. Airtable

• Best for: Combining spreadsheets with database functionality
• Platform: Web, Desktop, iOS, Android
• Pricing: Free tier; Paid plans start at $20/month

Key Features:

• Spreadsheet-database hybrid structure
• Visual views (grid, calendar, kanban, gallery)
• No-code automation tools
• Collaboration and task tracking
• App integrations (Slack, Google Drive, etc.)

Why it stands out:
Airtable is ideal for project managers and teams needing more structure than a traditional spreadsheet offers, without jumping to a full database.