| Feature | Excel | Power BI |
|---|---|---|
| Data Handling Capacity | <ul> <li>Limited to approximately 1 million rows per worksheet</li> <li>Performance degradeds with large datasets</li> <li>Manual refresh processes for external data connections</li> <li>Best suited for datasets under 100K rows</li> </ul> | <ul> <li>Can handle millions of rows efficiently</li> <li>Optimized for big data processing</li> <li>Automatic data refresh capabilities</li> <li>Compressed data storage reduces file size significantly</li> </ul> |
| Data Source Connectivity | <ul> <li>Connects to databases, web services, and files</li> <li>Limited real-time data connections</li> <li>Requires manual setup for most connections</li> <li>Best with static or infrequently updated data</li> </ul> | <ul> <li>100+ native connectors</li> <li>Real-time streaming data support</li> <li>Cloud and on-premises data integration</li> <li>Automatic data gateway for secure connections</li> </ul> |
| Visualization Capabilities | <ul> <li>Standard chart types</li> <li>Limited customization options</li> <li>Static visualizations are used in most cases</li> <li>Familiar charting interface</li> </ul> | <ul> <li>Extensive library of custom visuals</li> <li>Interactive and dynamic visualizations</li> <li>Cross-filtering between multiple charts</li> <li>Custom visual marketplace with hundreds of options</li> </ul> |
| Collaboration and Sharing | <ul> <li>File-based sharing (Email, Sharepoint)</li> <li>Version control challenges</li> <li>Limited real-time collaboration</li> <li>Requires an Excel license for full functionality</li> </ul> | <ul> <li>Cloud-based sharing and collaboration</li> <li>Centralized report management</li> <li>Real-time updates for all users</li> <li>Web-based access without desktop software</li> </ul> |
| Cost Analysis | <ul> <li>Part of the Microsoft Office suite ($8.25-$22/user/month)</li> <li>One-time purchase options available</li> <li>No additional licensing for basic dashboard features</li> <li>Hidden costs in maintenance and version control</li> </ul> | <ul> <li>Power BI Pro: $10/user/month</li> <li>Power BI Premium: $20/user/month or $5,000/month capacity-based</li> <li>Additional costs for an on-premises data gateway</li> <li>Potential savings through improved efficiency and automation</li> </ul> |
Here is the page for Microsoft’s Power BI product within Power Platform
Last Updated at 2026-01-11