Microsoft Excel vs Smartsheet
A side-by-side comparison to help you choose the right tool in 2026. Both are Database & Spreadsheet tools.
Microsoft Excel and Smartsheet both compete in the Database & Spreadsheet space. Enterprise work management. Classic spreadsheet power. Both are paid, so the choice usually comes down to feature fit and ecosystem.
Microsoft Excel
Industry-standard spreadsheet application for data analysis, calculations, charting, and business intelligence. Part of Microsoft 365 with advanced features like Power Query, pivots, and macros.
vs Smartsheet
Smartsheet
Enterprise platform for dynamic work management. Combines spreadsheet-like interface with project management features, automation, dashboards, and reporting.
vs Microsoft Excel
How Microsoft Excel and Smartsheet differ
Smartsheet as an alternative to Microsoft Excel
Enterprise work management
Project-focused, Gantt charts, resource management
Microsoft Excel as an alternative to Smartsheet
Classic spreadsheet power
Most powerful formulas, pivot tables
Pricing comparison
At a glance
| Feature | Microsoft Excel | Smartsheet |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | Paid | Paid |
| Free tier | No | No |
| Best for | Classic spreadsheet power | Enterprise work management |
| Categories | Productivity, Database & Spreadsheet | Project Management, Database & Spreadsheet |
| Website | Visit | Visit |
- Microsoft Excel
- Paid
- Smartsheet
- Paid
- Microsoft Excel
- No
- Smartsheet
- No
- Microsoft Excel
- Classic spreadsheet power
- Smartsheet
- Enterprise work management
- Microsoft Excel
- Productivity, Database & Spreadsheet
- Smartsheet
- Project Management, Database & Spreadsheet
Alternatives to both Microsoft Excel and Smartsheet
Tools curated as alternatives to both options — worth a look if neither is right for you.
Frequently asked questions
What is the main difference between Microsoft Excel and Smartsheet?
Project-focused, Gantt charts, resource management
Is Microsoft Excel cheaper than Smartsheet?
Microsoft Excel is paid, while Smartsheet is paid. Check each tool's website for current pricing details and tier limits.
Which is better, Microsoft Excel or Smartsheet?
Neither is universally "better" — it depends on your team's needs. Microsoft Excel is known for enterprise work management. Smartsheet is known for classic spreadsheet power.
Can Microsoft Excel replace Smartsheet?
Microsoft Excel can replace Smartsheet for many teams. Enterprise work management However, the right fit depends on which features your workflow relies on.
Which has more alternatives, Microsoft Excel or Smartsheet?
Microsoft Excel and Smartsheet both have 5 editorially-tracked alternatives in our database.
Are Microsoft Excel and Smartsheet both Database & Spreadsheet tools?
Yes — both Microsoft Excel and Smartsheet are categorized as Database & Spreadsheet tools, which is why they show up as alternatives to one another. Their feature emphasis and pricing differ, so the right fit depends on your workflow.
What are good alternatives to both Microsoft Excel and Smartsheet?
Tools curated as alternatives to both include Airtable. See the "Alternatives to both" section above.