If you want to track a limited volume of data and apply formulas, a spreadsheet is likely your best bet. But if you're looking to isolate certain subsets of data at a time, or arrange data into multiple views, a database is more effective. 3.

When should I use database vs Excel?

In an ideal world, databases should be used for its ability to organize and displays rafts of data in a structured manner, to run complex queries with multiple fields, to generate specific reports. And spreadsheets should be used for its advanced mathematical calculations and statistical comparisons to analyze data.

Why you shouldn't use Google Sheets as a database?

Database features you'll miss

For all that Sheets has going for it, there are some common features you are going to miss if you rely on it as a database: Queries: aside from the =QUERY formula, you can't really search across your data. Consistency: anything goes in a spreadsheet cell, and user edits add even more chaos.