What Is the Best Spreadsheet Software for Android?

You’re on the train, squeezing in some productivity between stops when a colleague emails you an urgent Excel worksheet to review. Or maybe you’re on the road and get a spreadsheet grocery list from your partner. Even at the gym, spreadsheets might sneak their way in, helping you track whether you’ve crushed today’s crunch goal.

Quick – you need a reliable spreadsheet app on your Android phone device!

Mobile spreadsheet tools aren’t just convenient; they’re essential.

Whether you’re a freelancer tracking invoices, a student organizing assignments, or a small business owner analyzing sales trends, having the power of Excel at your fingertips can completely transform how you work on the go.

But with so many options on the Google Play Store, how do you choose the best one to fit your mobile productivity needs?

We’ve compiled a list of the best (and free) Excel alternative spreadsheet apps to help you get the job done, on the go!

Is Microsoft Excel available on Android?

Yes, Microsoft Excel is available on Android, delivering its renowned desktop-level power in a mobile-friendly package. Excel is the gold standard in spreadsheet software; a powerhouse for data analysis.

Whether managing large datasets or building advanced formulas, the Excel app is a top choice for handling complex spreadsheets.

As part of the Microsoft Office suite, Excel integrates seamlessly with apps like Word and PowerPoint, making it ideal for users already in the Microsoft ecosystem. It also allows you to import your CSV documents and create formatted, banded row tables instantly.

With the Excel app for Android, you can take advantage of:

• Basic to advanced formatting options: Format text, insert rows and columns, add images, apply cell styles, sort and filter data, write formulas, and generate professional charts.

• Customizable interface: Pin frequently used functions to the Quick Access Toolbar, streamlining your workflow.

• Powerful data tools: Handle large Excel spreadsheets (up to 17 billion cells) and use advanced functions like INDEX-MATCH and conditional formatting.

• AI-powered functionality with Copilot: Generate formula suggestions, create charts and pivot tables, and highlight key insights.

Despite its capabilities, Excel files on Android aren't without its drawbacks:

• Resource-intensive on some devices, leading to slower performance for large files.

• Larger file sizes compared to alternatives consume more device storage.

Can you use Google Sheets to open Excel files?

Yes, the Google Sheets app allows you to open, edit, and save Excel files. With support for formats like XLS, XLSX, XLSM, CSV, ODS, and TSV, it ensures compatibility for a range of file types.

You can upload files directly to Google Drive, access them via the Google Sheets app for Android, and export your work as XLSX, PDF, or CSV files.

However, the ability to open certain large spreadsheets may vary depending on your device's memory and system resources.

Is the Google Sheets app for Android good?

The Google Sheets app excels as a free and great alternative to an Excel spreadsheet, especially for those who prioritize collaboration and mobility.

Integrated with Google Drive, it’s a cloud-based application that allows real-time collaboration and seamless data sharing.

Whether you're working solo or with a team, the Google Sheets app simplifies the process of managing data on the go, organizing it with the likes of filters, conditional formatting, pivot tables, and named ranges.

The Google Sheets app for Android allows:

• Powerful visualizations: Create charts, graphs, and sparklines that update in real-time for dynamic presentations.

• Real-time collaboration: Multiple users can edit a file simultaneously, leave comments, and track changes with version history.

• Google-specific functions: Use GOOGLE TRANSLATE for translations or GOOGLE FINANCE for live financial data.

• Offline access: Edit files without an internet connection, with changes syncing once you're back online.

Here are some of the cons of the Google Sheets app for mobile Android device:

• While sufficient for most users, its pivot table creation and data manipulation lack the depth of Excel.

• Handling extremely large files or advanced calculations can be slower compared to desktop-based apps.

What other options are there to edit a spreadsheet for Android?

Several excellent Microsoft Excel (and Google Sheets) alternatives offer unique features and flexibility. Find out our top app choices below.

P.S. There are also options to edit your Excel spreadsheets and Google Sheets workbooks on your iOS device.

MobiSheets

The MobiSheets app stands out as a top-tier alternative, delivering robust features with an intuitive interface designed for users of all skill levels.

With over 280 formulas, seamless compatibility with Office formats, and advanced tools like pivot tables and data validation, MobiSheets provides everything you need to work efficiently on Android.

MobiSheets Features and Pros

• Ease of use: Navigate effortlessly with a familiar interface.

• Visualize data: Create advanced charts and graphs to gain insights quickly, with plenty of templates for your ease.

• Cross-format compatibility: Work seamlessly with Office 365 and other major formats, including converting to/from PDFs.

• Offline access: Edit without an internet connection.

Cons

• Some advanced features require a subscription.

WPS Office

The WPS Office app is a comprehensive suite that rivals Excel and Google Sheets with its rich template store and cloud integration. Known for its lightweight design, it’s ideal for users seeking a versatile yet simple office app.

WPS Office Features and Pros

• Compatibility: Supports Microsoft Excel and Google Sheets file formats.

• Customizable workspace: Resize cells, freeze panes, and hide gridlines.

• Cloud integration: Save spreadsheets to various cloud services for easy access.

• Affordable: Free to download, with optional premium features.

Cons

• Intrusive ads in the free version.

• Advanced features require a subscription.

Zoho Sheet

The Zoho Sheet app combines advanced spreadsheet features with AI-driven insights, all wrapped in an interface reminiscent of Google Sheets. Perfect for collaboration, it includes over 350 functions and formula suggestions.

Zoho Sheet Features and Pros

• AI-powered insights: Automatically build charts and pivot tables with ease.

• Advanced features: Apply conditional formatting, data validation, and external data integration.

• Real-time collaboration: Work and share spreadsheets with your teammates seamlessly using user-level filters.

• Completely free: No subscription required.

Cons

• Occasional glitches during server responses.

• Lacks some polish compared to Excel sheets in pivot table creation.

LibreOffice Calc

LibreOffice Calc is a free, open-source spreadsheet app offering a native experience similar to older versions of Excel. The app is ideal for users seeking a simple, desktop-like solution on Android.

LibreOffice Calc Features and Pros

• Advanced formatting: Includes conditional formatting, pivot tables, and advanced charting.

• Customizable interface: Tailor the layout to suit your needs.

• DataPilot: Pull raw data from external sources for custom analysis.

• Free and open-source: No subscriptions or hidden fees.

Cons

• No real-time collaboration.

• Limited advanced features compared to Excel.

Smartsheet

Smartsheet combines data analysis with project management, making it ideal for task tracking and team collaboration.

Smartsheet Features and Pros

• Versatile templates: Tailor solutions for projects, product launches, and more.

• Collaboration-friendly: Share results with stakeholders via dashboards.

• Multiple views: Choose from grid, Gantt, calendar, or card views.

• Spreadsheet familiarity: Includes conditional formatting and basic formulas.

Cons

• Pivot tables require a premium add-on.

• More suited for project management than pure data analysis.

Airtable

Airtable offers a unique mix of spreadsheet and database features, providing a highly customizable platform for organizing and visualizing data.

Airtable Features and Pros

• Relational database: Link bases for complex data structures.

• Visual customization: Use calendar, timeline, Gantt, or Kanban views.

• Multiple templates: Start with pre-designed solutions for various use cases.

• Automation: Automate repetitive tasks for enhanced efficiency.

Cons

• Lacks traditional spreadsheet flexibility.

• Limited options for font and style customization.

EtherCalc

EtherCalc is a lightweight, web-based spreadsheet tool designed for quick and simple collaboration.

With no sign-up required, users can create and share spreadsheets in real-time from their web page by simply sharing a unique URL.

EtherCalc Features and Pros

• Real-time collaboration: Work simultaneously with others on the same file without delays.

• No account required: Start using EtherCalc instantly without signing up.

• Simple sharing: Create a unique URL to give collaborators access to your web document.

• Free to use: No subscriptions or hidden fees.

Cons

• Lacks advanced features like conditional formatting and pivot tables.

• Moving rows and columns can be more tiring compared to other apps on this list.

CryptPad

CryptPad offers a privacy-focused spreadsheet app with end-to-end encryption, ensuring that only you and your collaborators can access your data.

CryptPad Features and Pros

• Data security: End-to-end encryption for maximum privacy.

• Collaboration: Edit your documents in real-time and chat features.

• Basic spreadsheet features: Perform essential tasks like conditional formatting and graph creation.

• Free to use: Accessible without a subscription.

Cons

• The file import process can be tiring.

• Limited advanced features compared to other apps.

Closing thoughts

Choosing the right sheets app for your Android devices depends on your needs.

If you're looking for a versatile, cost-effective solution, MobiSheets is a standout choice for your spreadsheets, offering powerful features like pivot tables, chart creation, and offline editing.

For collaboration, apps like Google Sheets and Zoho Sheet shine, while options like Smartsheet and Airtable cater to project management and database tasks.

With so many great alternatives to Excel, there's a tool for everyone.

Try MobiSheets today and experience effortless spreadsheet management on the go!

Frequently asked questions

Are there any other spreadsheet apps for Android I should know about?

Yes, there are several other spreadsheet apps for Android worth exploring, each catering to specific needs:

• AndrOpen Office: A mobile port of OpenOffice that supports Microsoft Excel file formats and offers multiple spreadsheet functions, and is a free app.

• Docs To Go: A lightweight option for simple tasks, with 111 functions and customizable columns.

• Polaris Office: A mature productivity suite featuring Excel compatibility and a modern, user-friendly interface.

• Table Notes: A note-taking app with spreadsheet features, allowing you to add photos, audio, and drawings alongside data.

Can I use a spreadsheet app on Android without an internet connection?

Yes, several spreadsheet apps offer offline functionality.

• MobiSheets is a standout option, allowing users to edit and save sheets without requiring an internet connection.

• Google Sheets also supports offline use, but you’ll need to enable this feature in advance.

• LibreOffice Calc is another reliable choice for offline work, as it operates as a native app.

Can I open CSV files on Android via a spreadsheet app?

Yes, most spreadsheet apps support CSV file imports. MobiSheets, Google Sheets, and Zoho Sheet handle CSV files seamlessly, while with LibreOffice Calc and CryptPad you may require additional steps to edit and format your data correctly.