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Top Rated Spreadsheet Software with Access Controls/Permissions in 2026

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Verified reviewer profile picture

All user reviews are verified by in-house moderators and provider data by our software research team.  Learn more

Last updated: April 2026

Access controls and permissions in spreadsheet software manage who can view, edit, or share documents. They ensure data security, prevent unauthorized changes, and facilitate controlled collaboration among team members. Our reviewers in spreadsheet software rated this feature as important.

3 Best Spreadsheet Software with Access Controls/Permissions

  • Google Sheets
  • Smartsheet - Highest rated for access controls/permissions
  • Google Workspace

See other top Spreadsheet products with access controls/permissions

How we picked the 3 top rated products

We chose the high-performing solutions on this list based on verified user ratings on our site. Depending on available data, qualifying products either had to be among the most user-reviewed or the most searched-for products in the spreadsheet software category. They also needed to have sufficient reviews about access controls/permissions, have a minimum user rating of 3 out of 5 for that feature, and show evidence of U.S. market presence. We then added a distinction for the product with the highest rating for access controls/permissions based on our proprietary ratings and reviews. Sponsorship or client status has no influence on the selection of these products, but it may impact the order in which products appear.

Details for the 3 best products

Google Sheets logo
4.7
(13.1K)
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User insights about the access controls/permissions feature

Users find Google Sheets' access controls and permissions highly valuable for managing collaboration and data security. They appreciate the ability to easily set specific permissions for viewing, editing, or commenting on documents. Reviewers highlight the ease of sharing files within and outside the organization while maintaining control over sensitive information. Some users note occasional issues with permissions not working perfectly and the system slowing down with many simultaneous users. Overall, the feature is praised for its simplicity and effectiveness in protecting data.
“In our company, we share files regularly. Sometimes, we share files outside the company. The access controls and permissions of Google Sheets gives us options on protecting our files. We can include people who can edit and collaborate. We can also share the files on "View Only" so no one can make changes on the files. ”
Verified reviewer profile picture

Azuntha M.

Corporate QA Specialist

“Access controls or permissions in Google Sheets play a crucial role in the product as they determine who can access, view, and edit the spreadsheet. They help ensure data privacy and security, and allow for controlled collaboration among team members. ”
Verified reviewer profile picture

Yassine B.

Review for Google Sheets

Spreadsheet key features coverage

Google Sheets offers 6 out of the 6 key features for Spreadsheet software identified by reviewers:

Data Import/Export4.6
Document Management4.6
Search/Filter4.6
Collaboration Tools4.7
Data Visualization3.9
Offline Access4.0

Pros and cons based on 13,173 verified reviews

72% of users rated Google Sheets 5 out of 5 stars, while 0% gave it 1 or 2 stars. To determine these pros and cons insights we analyzed 13,173 reviews and identified the topics where users expressed positive and negative sentiment.

Pros:

Real-time team collaboration

Flexible document sharing

Exceptional value and functionality

Effective tracking capabilities

Convenient cloud storage

Cons:

Lag with large datasets

Limited formatting options

Lacks advanced features

Dependence on internet connection

Inconsistent formula compatibility

See pros and cons details

Pricing

Starting price:$6 per user/per month|Free version:Available|Free trial:Available

Prices may vary depending on the number of users and features.

Smartsheet logo
4.5
(3.4K)
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User insights about the access controls/permissions feature

Reviewers appreciate Smartsheet's robust access controls and permissions, noting the ability to share entire workspaces or individual sheets. They highlight the customizable permission settings that allow administrators to manage access securely, ensuring data integrity and collaboration. Users value the granular control over who can view, edit, or manage worksheets, which is essential for project management. However, some find it frustrating that permissions must be set individually for each folder, and guest users now require a license for read-only access.
“Granular Access Controls: Smartsheet provides customizable access controls and permissions, allowing users to define who can access and edit specific sheets or workspaces. This feature ensures data security and supports collaboration while maintaining control over sensitive information.”
Verified reviewer profile picture

Saeed E.

Applications and Platforms Testing Engineer

“This allows us to have project team members edit things to notify me that tasks have been completed while also keeping some users as viewers only so they can't accidentally alter something when all they need is to view it.”
LW

Leslie W.

Senior Designer

Spreadsheet key features coverage

Smartsheet offers 5 out of the 6 key features for Spreadsheet software identified by reviewers:

Data Import/Export4.5
Document Management4.2
Search/Filter4.3
Collaboration Tools4.4
Data Visualization4.5
Offline Access

Pros and cons based on 3,479 verified reviews

59% of users rated Smartsheet 5 out of 5 stars, while 1% gave it 1 or 2 stars. To determine these pros and cons insights we analyzed 3,479 reviews and identified the topics where users expressed positive and negative sentiment.

Pros:

Real-time team collaboration

Comprehensive project management

Efficient sharing capabilities

Highly customizable platform

Variety of useful templates

Cons:

Limited row and cell management

Complex formula limitations

High cost concerns

Challenging navigation views

Lack of auto-save feature

See pros and cons details

Pricing

Starting price:$12 per user/per month|Free version:Not available|Free trial:Available

Prices may vary depending on the number of users and features.

Google Workspace logo
4.7
(17.4K)
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User insights about the access controls/permissions feature

Reviewers indicate that Google Workspace's access controls and permissions are crucial for managing data security and collaboration. They appreciate the ability to set varying levels of permissions for different users, ensuring sensitive information is only accessible to authorized individuals. Users find the feature easy to use and customizable, which helps in maintaining data privacy and control. However, some mention that the interface can be confusing and complex to configure, especially for larger organizations. Overall, the feature is seen as essential for protecting confidential data and facilitating efficient teamwork.
“"Access Controls/Permissions are extremely useful in Google Workspace as they allow me to manage who can view, edit, or share files. This feature helps maintain data privacy and control, especially when collaborating with different teams, ensuring th”
Gf

Girgis f.

jofared

“Access controls/permissions in Google Workspace are crucial for managing data security and collaboration. They allow users to define who can view, edit, or share files, ensuring sensitive information is protected while enabling efficient teamwork. Th”
AP

Anket P.

Cosmetic

Spreadsheet key features coverage

Google Workspace offers 6 out of the 6 key features for Spreadsheet software identified by reviewers:

Data Import/Export4.6
Document Management4.7
Search/Filter4.6
Collaboration Tools4.7
Data Visualization4.6
Offline Access4.1

Pros and cons based on 17,470 verified reviews

75% of users rated Google Workspace 5 out of 5 stars, while 1% gave it 1 or 2 stars. To determine these pros and cons insights we analyzed 17,470 reviews and identified the topics where users expressed positive and negative sentiment.

Pros:

Effective remote teamwork

Enhanced workflow efficiency

Accessible cloud storage

Seamless document sharing

Seamless app integration

Cons:

Dependence on internet

Inconsistent customer support

High costs and limitations

Complex account management

Challenging file management

See pros and cons details

Pricing

Starting price:$7 per user/per month|Free version:Not available|Free trial:Available

Prices may vary depending on the number of users and features.

Other Top Rated Spreadsheet Software with Access Controls/Permissions in 2026

Google Workspace logo

Collaboration application suite for teams

learn more
Google Workspace is a suite of applications from Google which offers a number of tools to communicate and collaborate with colleagues, store files, and manage data from all devices.

Read more about Google Workspace

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Google Sheets logo

Cloud-based spreadsheet and collaboration platform

learn more
Google Sheets is a cloud-based spreadsheet platform designed to help businesses of all sizes collaborate with clients and partners to create and edit data on spreadsheets.

Read more about Google Sheets

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Asana logo

Project tracking and workflow management platform

learn more
Asana Starter Plan provides growing teams with project management tools to track progress and meet deadlines. The plan includes workflow automation features, custom project templates, forms for standardized work requests, and rules for routine task management. It also offers visualization tools like Gantt and timeline views, plus AI-powered features for status updates and project organization.

Read more about Asana

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monday.com logo

Project management software

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monday.com is a cloud-based Work OS, where teams create workflow apps in minutes to run their processes, projects, and everyday work. Teams shape workflows and projects, code-free, with a platform that adapts to shifting needs, liberates teams from manual grunt work, and connects teams in a collaborative work space.

Read more about monday.com

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Smartsheet logo

Online work execution platform for businesses of all sizes

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Smartsheet, an online work execution platform, empowers organizations to plan, track, automate, and report on work. Over 80,000 brands rely on Smartsheet for project and work management because of its easy-to-use interface, real-time gantt charts and dashboards, and work automation features.

Read more about Smartsheet

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Sage Intacct logo

Best-in-class Cloud ERP for Finance

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Sage Intacct is a leading provider of best-in-class cloud ERP software, and is the preferred cloud financial management applications for the AICPA.

Read more about Sage Intacct

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OriginPro logo

Cloud-based data analysis and graphing software

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OriginPro is a cloud-based data analysis and graphing software that provides a complete set of data exploration, peak fitting, and surface fitting analysis tools for businesses across multiple sectors, including academic institutions, government organizations, and non-profits.

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Stackby logo

Spreadsheets, Databases and No code APIs - one platform.

learn more
Stackby is a collaborative workspace that brings ease of use of spreadsheets, functionality of databases and access to popular services via no-code API connectors - to create, organize and automate anything.

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Macabacus logo

The fastest way to get more done in Microsoft 365

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Macabacus is the Microsoft 365 add-in solution for finance and banking. It’s the fastest way to get more done, from complex financial models to branded presentations.

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Retable logo

Work & data management platform

learn more
Retable is a collaborative online spreadsheet tool that helps businesses manage, track, connect, monitor and automate data efficiently.

Read more about Retable

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Zoho Sheet logo

Collaborative online spreadsheet application for teams

learn more
Zoho Sheet is that spreadsheet application that provides you with the space for organizing data, discussing reports with your team, and analyzing data, wherever you are. Zoho Sheet also provides native apps for both iOS and Android, thus, not tethering users to their laptops.

Read more about Zoho Sheet

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HighQ logo

Cloud-based legal case management tool for legal teams.

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HighQ's intelligent solution combines automated workflows, document automation, and secure collaboration to transform the way professionals work and engage with clients and colleagues.

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Intellimas logo

Build apps in days, not months using the speed of low code.

learn more
Intellimas is a highly configurable, enterprise level solution with spreadsheet features. This allows you to build a variety of web apps to eliminate standalone spreadsheets. Intellimas retrieves live data from your other systems, connects it to Intellimas fields, and keeps both sets of data linked.

Read more about Intellimas

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Quixy logo

Work Smart. Achieve More.

learn more
Quixy is a comprehensive digital transformation platform that empowers business users to quickly build and manage powerful enterprise-grade applications. Automate workflows, enhancing efficiency, transparency, and productivity across operations.

Read more about Quixy

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Jet Reports logo

Flexible Financial and Business Reporting Inside Excel

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Jet Reports is a flexible financial and business reporting solution running inside of Excel and on the Web. From advanced business reports to sophisticated financial statements, business users can create reports in Excel with no exporting, no copying and pasting, and no programming required.

Read more about Jet Reports

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Ragic Builder logo

#1 No-Code Tool for Digitalizing Your Business Processes

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Ragic is a no-code database builder that allows its users to build their own system according to their workflow with a spreadsheet-like interface, capable of building small contact management to fully-fledged ERP systems.

Read more about Ragic Builder

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Jspreadsheet logo

JavaScript data grid with advanced spreadsheet controls

learn more
Cloud-based spreadsheet solution that assists businesses with data grid creation, formula execution, and dataset visualization.

Read more about Jspreadsheet

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Grist logo

The best of spreadsheets, databases and app builders.

learn more
Grist is a familiar spreadsheet interface to a robust relational database. Analyze your well-organized data with no-code dashboards, and collaborate on sensitive data in real time.

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Gigasheet logo

Cloud Big Data Spreadsheet

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Gigasheet is the cloud big data spreadsheet. Gain insights from your data in minutes, not days or hours. If you can use a spreadsheet, you can get started with big data analysis and data science.

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Conversionomics logo

Data aggregation and automation technology tool

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Conversionomics is a powerful data aggregation and automation technology tool that can improve your data aggregation, automation, and visualization processes.

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Rows logo

The spreadsheet where teams work faster.

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Rows is the spreadsheet where teams work faster. It combines a spreadsheet, built-in integrations and a new sharing experience.

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Abylon Rapid Planning logo
(0)

Cloud-based financial planning and accounting software

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Abylon Rapid Planning is a financial management tool that provides businesses with spreadsheet functionalities that scale the enterprise level. Key features include third-party integrations, workflow management, user access controls, reporting and analysis, data visualization, and consolidation.

Read more about Abylon Rapid Planning

Users also considered
Spread.NET logo
(0)

Deliver an Excel-like spreadsheet experience in .NET Apps

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.NET spreadsheet component that allows you to create enterprise spreadsheets, grids, dashboards, and forms.

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Equals logo
(0)

A next generation spreadsheet with SQL data connections

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Equals is a collaborative spreadsheet that connects directly to your team's databases, like Postgres, Snowflake, or BigQuery, and key data sources, like Stripe, Salesforce, and Hubspot. Equals spreadsheet always has the latest data pulled in — as underlying data updates, so does the spreadsheet. Building and updating key reports, models, and dashboards become a snap, so users can spend more time on what actually matters: drawing insights from the numbers.

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SpreadJS logo
(0)

High-Performance Enterprise JavaScript Spreadsheet Control

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JavaScript spreadsheet component allows developers to create enterprise spreadsheets, grids, dashboards, data input forms, and more.

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Key features for Spreadsheet software

Based on GetApp's analysis of verified user reviews collected between July 2021 and August 2024.

  • Data Import/Export: Reviewers value the ability to import and export data from various sources and formats, enhancing efficiency and flexibility in managing and sharing data. 88% of reviewers rated this feature as important or highly important.
  • Document Management: Users appreciate the ability to organize, store, and manage multiple sheets and documents efficiently, ensuring easy access and collaboration. 86% of reviewers rated this feature as important or highly important.
  • Search/Filter: Reviewers highlight the powerful search and filter functions for quickly locating and analyzing specific data within large datasets. 85% of reviewers rated this feature as important or highly important.
  • Collaboration Tools: Users find real-time collaboration features essential for teamwork, allowing multiple people to edit, comment, and update documents simultaneously. 82% of reviewers rated this feature as important or highly important.
  • Data Visualization: Reviewers emphasize the importance of creating charts and graphs for clear and impactful data presentation, aiding in analysis and communication. 82% of reviewers rated this feature as important or highly important.
  • Offline Access: Users appreciate the ability to work offline, ensuring productivity continues even without an internet connection, with seamless syncing when reconnected. 81% of reviewers rated this feature as important or highly important.