When it comes to everyday life, spreadsheets are essential—whether you’re managing budgets, analyzing data, or planning projects, spreadsheets can be a real help. Normally, people would turn to Microsoft Excel, but with rising subscription costs, it’s becoming a strain on the wallet. Excel has almost become a luxury. But what if there was a free, powerful alternative that allows you to do everything you need without the hefty price tag?
WPS Spreadsheets offers full compatibility with Excel files, a user-friendly, lightweight interface, and smart features to make your work easier and faster. Best of all, it’s completely free. With WPS Excel, you can handle everything from simple to complex budgeting, and even back up your data to the cloud. In this guide, you’ll learn how to download it, set it up, and start using it right away.
How to Download WPS Excel
Before diving into the download process, it’s important to know that getting WPS Excel on your device doesn’t take much time at all. Whether you’re on Windows or Mac, the setup is straightforward, and once installed, you’ll be ready to open your Excel files and start working. Now, let’s take a look at the simple steps to download WPS Excel and get you started right away.
Step 1: Visit the official WPS Office website in your browser. Once there, navigate to the download section, where you'll find the option to get the WPS Office suite for your device.
Step 2: Click the "Free Download" button to download the WPS Office suite, which includes WPS Excel along with other tools like Writer and Presentation.
Step 3: Once the download is complete, open the installer file by finding it in your “Downloads” folder.
Step 4: The installation wizard window will open, where you’ll need to agree to the terms and conditions. After reviewing, click on the "Install Now" button to begin the installation.
Step 5: Once the installation is finished, open WPS Office and select WPS Spreadsheets to start using WPS Excel. You can open existing .xls or .xlsx files or start a new spreadsheet from scratch.
Step 6: If you'd like to store your files in the cloud for easy access across devices, sign up for a free WPS Cloud account. This is optional but recommended for convenience.
How to Set Up WPS Excel for Maximum Compatibility After Downloading
Once you are done with the WPS Excel’s download, it’s a good idea to fine-tune a few settings to make sure everything runs smoothly; especially if you’re working with files originally created in Microsoft Excel. While WPS is already designed to support common Excel formats like .xls and .xlsx, adjusting the compatibility settings gives you a more seamless experience, particularly when it comes to formatting, formulas, and macros.
This quick setup will make sure that your spreadsheets open and behave just the way you expect them to, even if they were created in a different environment. It also helps avoid minor glitches or layout issues that can show up when switching between platforms. Let’s walk through how to enable compatibility mode in just a few simple steps.
Step 1: Open the WPS Office application on your computer to begin the setup.
Step 2: Click on the "Home" icon in the top-left corner.
Step 3: Then go to "Global Settings" and select "Configuration tools" from the dropdown menu.
Step 3: This will open the WPS Office Configuration Tools window, which is where you can adjust advanced settings and repair options. In this window, click on the "Advanced" button.
Step 4: In the Configuration Tools panel, select the "Compat Setting" tab from the sidebar to access compatibility options.
Step 5: Check the box that says "Compatible with third-party software", then click "OK" to save and apply the settings.
Enabling compatibility settings ensures WPS Excel runs smoothly with files created in other spreadsheet programs, especially Microsoft Excel. It reduces formatting issues, improves file stability, and makes collaboration with others much easier. If you're switching from Excel or working with shared files, this is a step you don't want to skip.
Core Features Every WPS User Should Master After Downloading WPS Excel
After downloading WPS Excel, there are a few features you should familiarize yourself with. When it comes to improving data management, simplifying calculations, and enabling better collaboration, these tools will definitely come in handy. Learning the optimization of these tools should not be a hassle, and once you get the hang of them, you'll be more than capable of handling your tasks.
Key Features to Enhance Productivity
Data Tools: WPS Excel gives you solid tools like PivotTables, conditional formatting, and filters that help you break down and understand your data better.
Collaboration: You can work with others in real-time and save everything on the cloud, so your files stay safe and accessible anywhere.
Formula Library: There are more than 400 formulas you can use, including popular ones like VLOOKUP and IF. This makes it easy to handle both basic and advanced calculations.
PDF Conversion: You can convert your spreadsheet to PDF right inside WPS Excel. Just click Export to PDF and it’s done. No need to install anything else.
Why WPS Outperforms Excel in 2025 (Cost & AI Analysis)
In 2025, WPS Excel just makes more sense. You don’t have to spend a bunch every year, and it still does everything you need. The AI is pretty helpful too — it picks up patterns, suggests stuff, and even puts together charts without you digging through menus. It’s kind of like having a quiet assistant that actually knows what it’s doing, and it won’t cost you a dime. Here are a few features that will depict a better representation as to why WPS is the smarter choice:
Cost Efficiency: WPS Excel is free to use and still gives you all the important features. You do not have to pay yearly like you do with Microsoft Excel.
AI Advantages: It comes with AI tools that help you understand your data. It can make charts for you and show patterns automatically.
Smart Formulas: The AI can even suggest formulas based on the kind of data you are working with. This saves time and helps avoid mistakes.
Template Automation: If you do the same kind of work often, the AI can build templates for you. That way you do not have to start over every time.
FAQs
Q1: Is WPS Excel truly free?
Yes, WPS Excel is free and offers all core features for basic use. While advanced functionalities require a premium subscription, the free version is a solid alternative to Microsoft Excel for personal or educational purposes.
Q2: Can WPS open macros from Excel files?
Yes, WPS Office supports Excel Macro-Enabled Workbook (.xlsm) files and VBA macros. However, you may need to enable macros manually in the settings. To do so, follow this guide:
Step 1: Go to the "Developer" tab in WPS Excel.
Step 2: Select "Macro Settings" to enable macros.
Step 3: If macros aren’t working, check your security settings or verify that the file format is correct.
Q3: How does WPS handle large datasets?
WPS Office offers features like Freeze Panes, New Window, and Split Window to manage large datasets. Advanced Filtering and Subtotal Functions simplify analysis, while PivotTables and VBA macros support complex tasks and automation.
Q4: Does WPS work offline?
Yes, WPS Office works offline, allowing you to use its core features without an internet connection. This makes it a great option for users in areas with low connectivity. However, cloud-based features like online templates and collaboration tools do require internet access. Additionally, WPS uses AI optimization for faster processing, improving performance even when working offline.
Summary
These days, with prices going up all around, paying for Microsoft Excel isn’t always easy. WPS Spreadsheets is a solid option if you want something that does the job without the cost. It’s got the tools you need for managing your data, sorting out your budget, and even making charts without too much effort. And downloading WPS Office is honestly quick and light—it won’t slow your system down.
