Google Sheets and Microsoft Excel are both spreadsheet programs that allow users to organize, analyze, and manipulate data. However, there are some key differences between the two:
- Platform: Google Sheets is a web-based program that runs on the Google Drive platform, while Excel is a desktop program that is part of the Microsoft Office suite of tools. This means that Excel must be installed on your computer, while Sheets can be accessed from any device with an internet connection.
- Price: Google Sheets is a free program that is part of the Google Drive suite of tools, while Excel is part of the Microsoft Office suite, which requires a subscription to use.
- Functionality: Excel has more advanced features such as macros and pivot tables that can automate repetitive tasks and complex data analysis, while Sheets is more suited for basic data manipulation and visualization.
- Collaboration: One of the main advantages of Google Sheets is its built-in collaboration features. With Sheets, multiple users can work on the same spreadsheet at the same time and see each other’s changes in real time. Excel, on the other hand, requires users to save a copy of the spreadsheet and email it to others, or use a separate program like Microsoft Teams to collaborate.
- Add-ons: Sheets has a wide variety of add-ons (small programs that extend the functionality of the platform) that can be installed to enhance its capabilities. Excel also has add-ons, but the selection is not as large.
Differences between Excel and Sheets
Switching from Microsoft Excel to Google Sheets can be a simple process as the layout and menu locations of the two programs are very similar. Each program offers a wide range of features and capabilities, but the main difference is that Excel is more suited for advanced analysis, while Sheets is better for collaboration and sharing.
Below are some common tasks in Microsoft Excel and the steps to complete the tasks in Google Sheets:
Collaboration in Excel for the web
Share using Excel for the web or a shared workbook
Save automatically using SharePoint of OneDrive
Manage versions with History or Version History in OneDrive
Add formulas and use Formula AutoComplete for suggestions
Record macros or use VBE
Create filters
Insert recommended pivot tables or create one manually
Create charts manually
Set notifications in OneDrive