Table of Contents
Computing has changed a lot since I learned DOS commands at my desk and now I can do real-time cloud computing on my phone. The spreadsheet has made it through this. It’s amazing that these old-fashioned things like tables, labels, and notes are still useful today. Automation, teamwork, and visualization have all gotten better, but it’s still all about numbers, charts, and calculations.
Visicalc made the first digital calculator in 1979 for the Apple II. It had an interface that looked like DOS. Though it only had 22 features, no charts, and a bad user interface, it was a big step forward. But it was called a “killer app” and the early Macbook. There were competitors, but Microsoft’s Excel in 1985 changed everything. Excel has been the best productivity program ever since. The times have changed. New companies in the market offer features and functions that Excel can’t match. Today’s needs aren’t met by Excel’s old features. These new ones do.
What is a spreadsheet?
Spreadsheets are computer program that let you add, view, analyse, organize, and change data that is set up in rows and columns. It’s the most popular app for doing things like budgeting, analytics, showing data, and more. Spreadsheets are flexible grid-based files that are used to keep information in order and do math’s. Spreadsheets are used by people all over the world to make tables for personal and business reasons.
Best Spreadsheet Apps for iPhone Comparison Table
What you hope to accomplish with the app will determine which one is the most suitable for you. Do you have a huge company that requires a considerable amount of customisation and a wide range of functions? This program for Microsoft Excel is definitely what you need. Does a novice who is operating on a budget require anything straightforward that is effective? It’s probable that Apple Numbers is more relevant to your needs.
Feature | Microsoft Excel ???? | Google Sheets ???? | Asana ???? | Smartsheet ???? | Apple Numbers ???? |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Primary Function | Spreadsheet | Spreadsheet | Project Management | Project Management | Spreadsheet |
Platform | Windows, Mac, Web | Web | Web | Web | Mac |
Collaboration | Real-time collaboration (paid version) ???? | Real-time collaboration ???? | Task assignment, commenting, discussions ????️ | Real-time collaboration, task assignment, discussions ???? | Real-time collaboration ???? |
Data Analysis | Powerful formulas and functions ???? | Powerful formulas and functions ???? | Limited data analysis ???? | Robust data analysis with dashboards and reports ???? | Good data analysis tools ???? |
Project Management | Limited functionality ???? | Limited functionality ???? | Task management, deadlines, dependencies, workload view ???? | Gantt charts, resource management, project templates ???? | Limited functionality ???? |
Offline Access | Yes (with paid version) ???? | Limited (requires add-on) ????️ | No ❌ | No ❌ | Yes (on Mac) ???? |
Best Spreadsheet Apps for iPhone
Excel remains popular, but many competitors provide real-time collaboration, user-friendliness, and aesthetics. Web-based and lightweight apps are becoming increasingly common as Internet connections become less important. As mobile apps proliferate and competition increases, picking a spreadsheet app depends on its features, affordability, compatibility with other apps, and 24/7 access to protected data.
Microsoft Excel

Feature | Description |
---|---|
Data Analysis | Powerful tools for data analysis and modeling |
Formulas | Vast array of built-in functions |
Pivot Tables | Easily summarize and analyze data |
Charting | Create various types of charts and graphs |
Collaboration | Real-time collaboration with others |
App Store |
Microsoft Excel has been the tool of choice for doing complex calculations, displaying data, and developing the latest macros. As a result of its large feature set and its ability to integrate without any problems with other Microsoft Office program, it is an key tool for many companies. Excel, on the other hand, has a steep learning curve and requires a paid community. I’ve discovered that Excel can be testing to use.
The Good
- Wide range of functionalities
- Familiar interface for many users
- Integration with other Microsoft Office products
The Bad
- Steeper learning curve for complex features
- Requires purchase or subscription for full functionality
Google Sheets

Feature | Description |
---|---|
Cloud-Based | Accessible from any device with internet |
Collaboration | Real-time collaboration with others |
Add-ons | Extensible with various add-ons and scripts |
Version History | Tracks changes and allows for version rollback |
Import/Export | Seamless integration with other Google apps |
The use of Google Sheets has completely changed the way I work. Despite the fact that it is free and can be used from any online browser, it provides a spreadsheet contact with that is completely familiar and has fantastic tools for teamwork.
One of my favorite features is that it allows numerous users to at once work on the same sheet, which makes it ideal for real-time concert. Sheets is a powerful solution for the majority of spreadsheet needs, despite the fact that it may not have all of the complex features that Excel has to offer.
The Good
- Free to use
- Easy sharing and collaboration
- Integration with Google ecosystem
The Bad
- Limited offline functionality
- Less robust than some desktop-based solutions
Asana

Feature | Description |
---|---|
Task Management | Organize tasks, projects, and deadlines |
Collaboration | Share projects and communicate with team |
Timeline | Visualize project timelines and dependencies |
Integrations | Connect with various third-party apps |
Reporting | Generate reports on project progress |
Asana has proven to be indispensable. I am able to construct task lists, monitor the progress of the project, and visualise data inside a thorough workflow thanks to this resource. The spreadsheet features of Asana may not be as extensive as those of dedicated spreadsheet program; yet, the software is exceptional when it comes to handling complicated projects that involve a number of moving pieces.
The Good
- Intuitive interface
- Flexible project organization
- Great for team collaboration
The Bad
- Learning curve for new users
- Advanced features may require higher-tier subscription
Smartsheet

Feature | Description |
---|---|
Spreadsheet | Spreadsheet-like interface for project management |
Automation | Automate repetitive tasks and workflows |
Collaboration | Real-time collaboration with team members |
Resource Management | Track and manage project resources |
Reporting | Generate reports and dashboards |
Smartsheet has shown to be an required tool for bridging the gap between spreadsheets and project management. In addition to as long as powerful collaboration tools, it also provides Gantt charts for project scheduling, a user-friendly design, and data entry that is similar to that of a spreadsheet. Despite the fact that it requires a monthly subscription, Smartsheet is an excellent choice for groups that could benefit from a union of spreadsheet skill and tools for managing projects.
The Good
- Flexible and customizable
- Integrates with other tools and services
- Robust project management features
The Bad
- Interface can be overwhelming for beginners
- Pricing may be prohibitive for small teams
Apple Numbers

Feature | Description |
---|---|
Templates | Pre-designed templates for various uses |
Collaboration | Share and edit spreadsheets with others |
Charts & Graphs | Create visual representations of data |
iCloud Sync | Sync spreadsheets across Apple devices |
Formulas | Basic and advanced formulas for calculations |
As someone who uses Apple products, I have found that Numbers is a dependable option. It comes pre-installed on all Apple products and provides a user experience that is uncluttered and easy to use, tailored exclusively for those who use Macs and iOS.
The fact that it connects so well with other Apple products and offers spreadsheet features ranging from fundamental to moderate is something that I really like. Despite the fact that it is not as strong as Excel, Numbers is able to easily complete activities that are performed on a daily basis.
The Good
- Clean and user-friendly interface
- Seamless integration with Apple ecosystem
- Free for Apple device users
The Bad
- Limited features compared to other spreadsheet software
- Less commonly used in professional settings
Key Features to Consider in a Spreadsheet App for iPhone
When choosing an iPhone spreadsheet app, check for functionality, ease of use, and compatibility with other devices and software. Key features to consider:
- Compatibility: Make sure the spreadsheet app supports Microsoft Excel (.xlsx), CSV, and others. This keeps files from other systems compatible and makes sharing with colleagues straightforward.
- User Interface (UI): Choose a spreadsheet app with a simple, mobile-optimized interface. The UI should make touch gestures easy for navigating, entering data, formatting cells, and performing spreadsheet functions.
- The software should allow users to enter formulas, format cells (e.g., text alignment, font styles, borders), insert charts and pictures, and conduct basic computations.
- Function Support: Make sure the spreadsheet app supports several spreadsheet functions and formulae. Mathematics, statistics, logic, date and time, and lookup functions are examples.
- Collaboration: Choose a spreadsheet tool with real-time editing, commenting, and version history monitoring. This allows several people to edit the same spreadsheet and collaborate on projects.
- While cloud integration is necessary, offline spreadsheet access is also crucial. Make sure the program lets you download and edit spreadsheets offline, with changes synced when you reconnect.
- Data security is crucial when handling sensitive or secret data. Choose a spreadsheet app with data encryption, passcode protection, and biometric verification.
- Customisation Options: Find a spreadsheet program with customisable options. Custom templates, toolbar or menu choices, and formatting and computation defaults may be available.
- App developer support and update frequency should be considered. Choose a spreadsheet program with trustworthy customer service, user documentation, and regular bug fixes, speed enhancements, and new features.
Questions and Answers
Numbers, which is bundled with the majority of Apple products, enables users to build stunning spreadsheets by providing the user with a collection of tables and graphics that are rather appealing. Make use of the Apple Pencil on your iPad in order to incorporate colourful images and helpful information.
iPhone and iPad users can take advantage of iSpreadsheet, a mobile spreadsheet application that is not only free but also easy to use and powerful. Easily generate stunning spreadsheets that are compatible with major office software applications like Excel and Numbers in a fast and efficient manner.
Excel is more advanced, but Google Sheets is easier to use and more approachable. If you want a simple chart app that doesn’t cost anything, Google Sheets is it. If you’re willing to spend money on a spreadsheet app and need more powerful tools for organising and changing data, Excel might be a better choice…