Is it free?
Is Microsoft Excel free?
Microsoft Excel is the most widely used spreadsheet app, part of Microsoft 365.
Yes, Microsoft Excel has a free plan.
Short answer
Yes, web only. Excel for the web is free with a Microsoft account and 5 GB of OneDrive; the desktop app needs a subscription.
Updated
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What Microsoft Excel costs
The Excel desktop app comes with Microsoft 365: Personal costs $99.99 a year or $9.99 a month, and Family $129.99 a year for up to six people (US prices).
Checked on 14 October 2026 on Microsoft Excel's own pricing page. Prices change, so confirm there before you pay.
Free alternatives to Microsoft Excel
Google SheetsFreemiumFree online spreadsheets with the best real-time collaboration, and it edits Excel files directly.
Microsoft 365 web appsFreemiumExcel for the web, free with a Microsoft account, for full .xlsx compatibility in the browser.
LibreOfficeFreeLibreOffice Calc is a free, open-source desktop spreadsheet that works offline with no account.