If you’ve got a Chromebook and need to use Excel, don’t worry. You can easily download and start using Excel on your device. This guide will show you how to do it in just a few simple steps. By the end, you’ll have Microsoft Excel installed and ready to go on your Chromebook.
How to Download Excel on Chromebook
Let’s get started with downloading Excel on your Chromebook. Follow these steps, and you’ll be all set to use the program like a pro.
Step 1: Open the Google Play Store
First, you need to open the Google Play Store on your Chromebook.
You can find the Google Play Store by clicking on the launcher (the circle icon) at the bottom-left corner of your screen. In the search bar, type "Google Play Store" and click on it when it appears.
Step 2: Search for Microsoft Excel
Next, you’ll need to search for the Excel app.
In the Google Play Store, type "Microsoft Excel" in the search bar at the top. This will bring up a list of related apps, but you want the official Microsoft Excel app.
Step 3: Install Microsoft Excel
Now, click on the "Install" button to download the app.
Once you find Microsoft Excel, click on it to go to its app page. From there, you’ll see an "Install" button. Click on it, and the app will start downloading and installing on your Chromebook.
Step 4: Open Microsoft Excel
After the installation is complete, open the app.
When the download finishes, you can open the app directly from the Google Play Store by clicking "Open." Alternatively, you can find it in your launcher with your other apps and click on it there.
Step 5: Sign In or Create an Account
Finally, sign in with your Microsoft account or create a new one if you don’t have one.
You’ll need a Microsoft account to use Excel. If you already have one, just sign in. If not, you can create one for free right within the app.
After completing these steps, you’ll have Microsoft Excel installed on your Chromebook. You can now create, edit, and view Excel spreadsheets just like you would on any other device.
Tips for Downloading Excel on Chromebook
- Make sure your Chromebook is updated to the latest version of Chrome OS for the best performance.
- Use a reliable internet connection to avoid any interruptions during the download and installation process.
- If you have limited storage space, consider using cloud storage services to save your files.
- Customize the Excel app settings to better suit your needs by exploring the options in the "Settings" menu.
- Keep your Microsoft account credentials handy for easier sign-ins in the future.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use Excel on my Chromebook without downloading it?
Yes, you can use Excel Online through a web browser without downloading the app. Just go to office.com and sign in with your Microsoft account.
Is the Excel app free to use?
The Excel app is free to download, but some features may require a Microsoft 365 subscription.
What if my Chromebook doesn’t support the Google Play Store?
If your Chromebook doesn’t support the Google Play Store, you can use Excel Online or install a Linux version of Excel if your Chromebook supports Linux apps.
Can I use Excel offline on my Chromebook?
Yes, once the app is installed, you can use it offline. However, some features like cloud syncing will require an internet connection.
Does Excel run smoothly on all Chromebooks?
Excel runs smoothly on most modern Chromebooks. However, older models with limited hardware might experience slower performance.
Summary
- Open the Google Play Store.
- Search for Microsoft Excel.
- Install Microsoft Excel.
- Open Microsoft Excel.
- Sign In or Create an Account.
Conclusion
Downloading Excel on your Chromebook is a straightforward process that opens up a world of productivity possibilities. Whether you’re a student needing to complete assignments, a professional managing data, or just someone who loves organizing things in spreadsheets, having Excel on your Chromebook can be a game-changer.
Remember, it’s essential to keep your software and Chromebook updated to enjoy a seamless experience. And if you encounter any issues, there’s always the option to use Excel Online or explore alternatives like Google Sheets, which is also a very capable spreadsheet tool right on your Chromebook.
If you found this guide helpful, feel free to share it with others who might benefit from it. And don’t hesitate to explore more about what your Chromebook can do. Happy spreadsheeting!

Matt Jacobs has been working as an IT consultant for small businesses since receiving his Master’s degree in 2003. While he still does some consulting work, his primary focus now is on creating technology support content for SupportYourTech.com.
His work can be found on many websites and focuses on topics such as Microsoft Office, Apple devices, Android devices, Photoshop, and more.