However, LibreOffice Calc, a free and open-source alternative, has been gaining popularity among users who seek powerful functionality without the hefty price tag.
While Excel has its strengths, LibreOffice Calc offers numerous advantages that make it a compelling choice for many.
In this article, I’ll explore the top 10 reasons why LibreOffice Calc might just be better than Microsoft Excel.
1. Cost-Free Access
One of the most significant advantages of LibreOffice Calc over Microsoft Excel is its cost. LibreOffice Calc is completely free to download and use. This makes it an attractive option for individuals, small businesses, and non-profits who need robust spreadsheet software without having to pay for a Microsoft Office subscription. With LibreOffice Calc, there are no hidden fees, no subscription plans, and no licence renewals—just straightforward, free access to a powerful tool.
2. Open Source Flexibility
LibreOffice Calc is open-source software, meaning that its source code is publicly available for anyone to view, modify, and distribute. This openness fosters a community of developers who are continually improving the software, fixing bugs, and adding new features. It also allows users to customise the software to meet their specific needs. In contrast, Microsoft Excel is proprietary software, limiting user control over the product and tying users to Microsoft’s development cycle.
3. Compatibility with Multiple Formats
LibreOffice Calc offers excellent compatibility with a wide range of file formats. While Excel primarily focuses on its own formats like .xlsx and .xls, LibreOffice Calc can open, edit, and save files in numerous formats, including Excel’s formats, as well as OpenDocument Format (ODF), CSV, and many more. This versatility ensures that LibreOffice Calc users can work with files from various sources without needing multiple programs.
4. No Vendor Lock-In
By using LibreOffice Calc, users are not tied to any specific vendor or operating system. This is in stark contrast to Microsoft Excel, which is closely tied to the Windows ecosystem and Microsoft’s suite of products. LibreOffice Calc can run on multiple operating systems, including Windows, macOS, Linux, and even BSD. This flexibility means that users can switch platforms without losing access to their favourite spreadsheet tool.
5. Customisability and Extensibility
LibreOffice Calc offers greater customisation options than Excel. Users can add or remove toolbars, create custom functions, and use various extensions to enhance functionality. The open-source nature of LibreOffice Calc also means that if you have the technical know-how, you can modify the software to suit your needs better. This level of customisation is ideal for advanced users who want their spreadsheet tool to work exactly how they prefer.
6. Privacy and Security
With growing concerns about data privacy and security, many users prefer LibreOffice Calc because it doesn’t require users to create an account or store files in a proprietary cloud. Since LibreOffice Calc is open source, its code is open to public scrutiny, which helps ensure there are no hidden data collection practices. On the other hand, Microsoft Excel, as part of the Office 365 suite, is often integrated with Microsoft’s cloud services, which some users may find concerning from a privacy perspective.
7. Cross-Platform Consistency
LibreOffice Calc provides a consistent user experience across all platforms, whether you're using Windows, macOS, or Linux. In contrast, Microsoft Excel’s functionality can vary depending on the operating system, with the macOS version sometimes lagging behind its Windows counterpart in terms of features and updates. With LibreOffice Calc, you get the same interface and features regardless of your operating system, making it easier for users who switch between different systems.
8. Built-In PDF Export
LibreOffice Calc has a built-in feature for exporting spreadsheets directly to PDF. This functionality is highly useful for users who need to share documents while preserving their layout and formatting. While Excel can also export to PDF, it often requires additional steps or third-party tools to achieve the same result. LibreOffice Calc simplifies the process, making it quick and easy to produce high-quality PDFs directly from your spreadsheet.
9. Lightweight and Efficient
LibreOffice Calc is generally more lightweight and less resource-intensive than Microsoft Excel. This can be particularly beneficial for users working on older hardware or with limited system resources. Because it is less bloated with unnecessary features, LibreOffice Calc often runs faster and more efficiently, providing a smoother user experience on a wider range of devices.
10. Community Support and Documentation
LibreOffice has a robust community of users and developers who provide support, documentation, and tutorials for all skill levels. Because it is open source, there is a wealth of user-generated content, forums, and guides available to help you troubleshoot issues or learn new features. In contrast, support for Microsoft Excel is largely tied to Microsoft's official channels, which can sometimes be slow or require a paid support plan. The community-driven support for LibreOffice Calc means you’re never far from finding a solution to your problem.
While Microsoft Excel is undeniably powerful and feature-rich, LibreOffice Calc offers a compelling alternative that is free, flexible, and community-driven.
For those who are budget-conscious or prefer open-source software, LibreOffice Calc provides a robust set of features that can meet most, if not all, spreadsheet needs.
Whether it’s for personal use, a small business, or an educational setting, LibreOffice Calc stands out as a strong competitor to Excel, offering unique benefits that make it worth considering.
So, next time you find yourself needing a spreadsheet tool, why not give LibreOffice Calc a try? You might just find that it has everything you need—and a bit more.