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Top 10 Best Common Data Entry Software of 2026

Discover the top 10 common data entry software tools to optimize workflows. Find the best options here for seamless efficiency!

Sarah Mitchell

Sarah Mitchell

Feb 11, 2026

10 tools comparedExpert reviewed
Independent evaluation · Unbiased commentary · Updated regularly
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Efficient data entry software is critical for maintaining accuracy, boosting productivity, and organizing information in today’s digital landscape. With options ranging from flexible spreadsheets to customizable databases, choosing the right tool can transform workflows—this curated list delivers essential insights to guide informed decisions.

Quick Overview

  1. 1#1: Microsoft Excel - Powerful spreadsheet application with advanced formulas, data validation, and automation for efficient data entry and management.
  2. 2#2: Google Sheets - Collaborative online spreadsheet tool with real-time editing, forms, and scripting for seamless data entry.
  3. 3#3: AI rtable - Hybrid database-spreadsheet platform with customizable forms and interfaces for intuitive data entry.
  4. 4#4: Smartsheet - Work management platform with spreadsheet-style grids, forms, and automation for streamlined data entry.
  5. 5#5: Notion - All-in-one workspace with databases, forms, and templates for flexible and organized data entry.
  6. 6#6: Coda - Doc-table hybrid software that combines documents and databases for dynamic data entry and automation.
  7. 7#7: Microsoft Access - Relational database management system with forms and queries designed for custom data entry applications.
  8. 8#8: LibreOffice Calc - Free open-source spreadsheet program compatible with Excel for cost-effective data entry and analysis.
  9. 9#9: FileMaker - Cross-platform database software with drag-and-drop interface builders for rapid data entry solutions.
  10. 10#10: Jotform - Online form builder that automates data entry into spreadsheets and databases via customizable forms.

Tools were ranked based on features like automation and collaboration, usability for diverse skill levels, reliability, and overall value, ensuring a balanced selection of high-performance solutions.

Comparison Table

Explore a breakdown of popular data entry software, including tools like Microsoft Excel, Google Sheets, AI rtable, Smartsheet, Notion, and more, in this comparison table. Readers will learn about key features, ideal use cases, and standout strengths to find the best fit for their needs.

Powerful spreadsheet application with advanced formulas, data validation, and automation for efficient data entry and management.

Features
9.9/10
Ease
8.7/10
Value
9.4/10

Collaborative online spreadsheet tool with real-time editing, forms, and scripting for seamless data entry.

Features
8.9/10
Ease
9.6/10
Value
9.8/10
3AI rtable logo8.7/10

Hybrid database-spreadsheet platform with customizable forms and interfaces for intuitive data entry.

Features
9.2/10
Ease
8.8/10
Value
8.0/10
4Smartsheet logo8.3/10

Work management platform with spreadsheet-style grids, forms, and automation for streamlined data entry.

Features
9.1/10
Ease
8.0/10
Value
7.6/10
5Notion logo8.0/10

All-in-one workspace with databases, forms, and templates for flexible and organized data entry.

Features
8.5/10
Ease
7.5/10
Value
8.7/10
6Coda logo8.1/10

Doc-table hybrid software that combines documents and databases for dynamic data entry and automation.

Features
8.7/10
Ease
7.6/10
Value
7.4/10

Relational database management system with forms and queries designed for custom data entry applications.

Features
8.6/10
Ease
6.2/10
Value
7.1/10

Free open-source spreadsheet program compatible with Excel for cost-effective data entry and analysis.

Features
7.9/10
Ease
8.3/10
Value
10.0/10
9FileMaker logo7.6/10

Cross-platform database software with drag-and-drop interface builders for rapid data entry solutions.

Features
8.8/10
Ease
6.4/10
Value
7.1/10
10Jotform logo8.2/10

Online form builder that automates data entry into spreadsheets and databases via customizable forms.

Features
8.5/10
Ease
9.2/10
Value
7.8/10
1
Microsoft Excel logo

Microsoft Excel

enterprise

Powerful spreadsheet application with advanced formulas, data validation, and automation for efficient data entry and management.

Overall Rating9.8/10
Features
9.9/10
Ease of Use
8.7/10
Value
9.4/10
Standout Feature

Structured Excel Tables with dynamic referencing, auto-expansion, and built-in data validation for intuitive, scalable data entry

Microsoft Excel is the industry-standard spreadsheet application designed for efficient data entry, organization, and analysis. It supports common data entry through structured tables, data validation rules, and customizable forms that ensure accuracy and streamline workflows. With powerful automation via formulas, macros, and integrations, Excel transforms raw data inputs into actionable insights seamlessly.

Pros

  • Exceptional data validation and form controls for error-free entry
  • Unlimited scalability for handling massive datasets
  • Deep integration with Power BI, databases, and Microsoft ecosystem

Cons

  • Steep learning curve for advanced automation features
  • Subscription model adds ongoing costs
  • Resource-heavy for very large files on basic hardware

Best For

Businesses and professionals managing high-volume tabular data with needs for validation, automation, and real-time analysis.

Pricing

Included in Microsoft 365 subscriptions starting at $6.99/user/month; one-time perpetual license around $159.99.

2
Google Sheets logo

Google Sheets

other

Collaborative online spreadsheet tool with real-time editing, forms, and scripting for seamless data entry.

Overall Rating9.2/10
Features
8.9/10
Ease of Use
9.6/10
Value
9.8/10
Standout Feature

Real-time multi-user editing with simultaneous data entry and live updates

Google Sheets is a free, cloud-based spreadsheet application from Google that enables users to create, edit, and organize data in tabular formats for tasks like inventory tracking, surveys, and basic databases. It stands out for common data entry through seamless integration with Google Forms for collecting submissions directly into sheets and real-time collaboration features allowing multiple users to input data simultaneously. As part of Google Workspace, it offers scripting via Google Apps Script for automating repetitive entry tasks, making it highly versatile for everyday data management.

Pros

  • Exceptional real-time collaboration for team data entry
  • Google Forms integration simplifies bulk data collection
  • Free with unlimited storage via Google Drive integration

Cons

  • Performance lags with very large datasets (over 10 million cells)
  • Limited offline editing compared to desktop alternatives
  • Advanced formulas less powerful than Excel for complex data validation

Best For

Teams and small businesses needing collaborative, form-based data entry for shared projects like surveys, inventories, or CRM tracking.

Pricing

Free for personal and basic business use; Google Workspace plans start at $6/user/month for advanced features and admin controls.

3
AI rtable logo

AI rtable

specialized

Hybrid database-spreadsheet platform with customizable forms and interfaces for intuitive data entry.

Overall Rating8.7/10
Features
9.2/10
Ease of Use
8.8/10
Value
8.0/10
Standout Feature

Hybrid spreadsheet-database model with linked records for relational data without coding

AI rtable is a versatile cloud-based platform that combines the familiarity of spreadsheets with the power of relational databases, enabling users to organize, enter, and manage data in customizable bases. It supports multiple data views like grid, kanban, calendar, and gallery for intuitive entry and visualization, along with formulas, automations, and integrations. Ideal for teams handling structured data entry, it facilitates collaboration with real-time editing and sharing permissions.

Pros

  • Spreadsheet-like interface simplifies data entry for non-technical users
  • Relational linking and multiple views enhance data organization
  • Robust collaboration tools with real-time syncing and permissions

Cons

  • Record limits and API calls restricted on free/lower tiers
  • Advanced features have a steeper learning curve
  • Pricing escalates quickly for larger datasets or heavy usage

Best For

Teams and small businesses needing flexible, visual data entry and relational management beyond basic spreadsheets.

Pricing

Free plan with limits; Team plan at $20/user/month, Business at $45/user/month (billed annually); Enterprise custom.

Visit AI rtableairtable.com
4
Smartsheet logo

Smartsheet

enterprise

Work management platform with spreadsheet-style grids, forms, and automation for streamlined data entry.

Overall Rating8.3/10
Features
9.1/10
Ease of Use
8.0/10
Value
7.6/10
Standout Feature

Dynamic forms that capture structured data from anyone and auto-populate collaborative sheets with real-time updates

Smartsheet is a versatile cloud-based platform that mimics spreadsheet functionality while adding robust collaboration, automation, and project management capabilities. It excels in common data entry through customizable grids, forms, and dashboards that allow teams to input, track, and visualize data in real-time. Users can create structured sheets for tasks like inventory tracking, expense logging, or customer data collection, with built-in formulas, attachments, and notifications.

Pros

  • Familiar spreadsheet-like grid for intuitive data entry
  • Powerful forms for collecting data from external users
  • Extensive automation and integrations for streamlined workflows

Cons

  • Pricing escalates quickly for advanced features
  • Overkill for purely simple data entry needs
  • Limited offline functionality

Best For

Mid-sized teams needing collaborative data entry combined with project tracking and automation.

Pricing

Free trial available; plans start at $7/user/month (Pro), $25/user/month (Business), with custom Enterprise pricing.

Visit Smartsheetsmartsheet.com
5
Notion logo

Notion

other

All-in-one workspace with databases, forms, and templates for flexible and organized data entry.

Overall Rating8.0/10
Features
8.5/10
Ease of Use
7.5/10
Value
8.7/10
Standout Feature

Linked relational databases that sync data dynamically across multiple views and pages

Notion is an all-in-one workspace tool that supports data entry through customizable databases, tables, forms, and relational structures. It allows users to create flexible input forms, track data in multiple views like tables, boards, and calendars, and integrate it seamlessly with notes and tasks. While versatile for collaborative data management, it's more of a general productivity app than a dedicated data entry solution.

Pros

  • Highly customizable databases with multiple views and relations
  • Built-in forms for streamlined data collection
  • Real-time collaboration and unlimited free tier for individuals

Cons

  • Steeper learning curve for complex setups
  • Performance lags with very large datasets
  • Limited offline editing capabilities

Best For

Teams needing integrated data entry with note-taking and project management in a single flexible workspace.

Pricing

Free for individuals; Plus $10/user/mo; Business $18/user/mo; Enterprise custom.

Visit Notionnotion.so
6
Coda logo

Coda

specialized

Doc-table hybrid software that combines documents and databases for dynamic data entry and automation.

Overall Rating8.1/10
Features
8.7/10
Ease of Use
7.6/10
Value
7.4/10
Standout Feature

Packs: no-code integrations that embed external services directly into docs for seamless data syncing and automation.

Coda is an all-in-one collaborative platform that combines documents, spreadsheets, and apps into flexible, interactive workspaces. It excels in data entry through customizable tables, forms, buttons, and automations, allowing users to build dynamic databases with formulas, AI assistance, and real-time collaboration. While versatile for workflows beyond basic entry, it supports structured data management with integrations via its Packs system.

Pros

  • Highly customizable tables and forms for efficient data entry
  • Powerful no-code automations and AI tools for workflow enhancement
  • Seamless real-time collaboration and extensive integrations via Packs

Cons

  • Steep learning curve for beginners due to advanced customization
  • Performance can lag with very large or complex docs
  • Higher pricing for teams compared to simpler data entry tools

Best For

Teams needing integrated data entry with documentation, automations, and app-like functionality in one platform.

Pricing

Free for individuals; Maker at $10/user/month; Team at $30/user/month (billed annually).

Visit Codacoda.io
7
Microsoft Access logo

Microsoft Access

enterprise

Relational database management system with forms and queries designed for custom data entry applications.

Overall Rating7.4/10
Features
8.6/10
Ease of Use
6.2/10
Value
7.1/10
Standout Feature

Advanced form wizard with VBA automation for creating highly customized, rule-based data entry interfaces

Microsoft Access is a relational database management system included in the Microsoft Office suite, designed for creating and managing databases with custom forms, queries, reports, and applications. It excels in building user-friendly data entry interfaces through drag-and-drop form designers, complete with validation rules, lookups, and automation via macros or VBA. Ideal for desktop-based data entry tasks, it integrates seamlessly with Excel and other Microsoft tools for data import/export and analysis.

Pros

  • Robust form designer for customized data entry with validation and automation
  • Seamless integration with Microsoft Office ecosystem for data handling
  • Powerful querying and reporting tools beyond basic entry

Cons

  • Steep learning curve for non-technical users
  • Limited scalability for large-scale or multi-user environments
  • Primarily desktop-focused with outdated web app support

Best For

Small businesses or power users needing a full-featured desktop database for structured data entry and management.

Pricing

Included in Microsoft 365 subscriptions starting at $6.99/month (Personal) or $6/user/month (Business); one-time purchase via Office 2021 Home & Business for $249.99.

8
LibreOffice Calc logo

LibreOffice Calc

other

Free open-source spreadsheet program compatible with Excel for cost-effective data entry and analysis.

Overall Rating8.1/10
Features
7.9/10
Ease of Use
8.3/10
Value
10.0/10
Standout Feature

Customizable input forms that simplify structured data entry without needing external tools

LibreOffice Calc is a free, open-source spreadsheet application that excels in data entry, manipulation, and analysis as a robust alternative to proprietary tools like Microsoft Excel. It supports efficient data input through features like validation rules, custom forms, and auto-fill, while handling large datasets with formulas, pivot tables, and charts. Cross-platform compatibility makes it accessible on Windows, macOS, and Linux without licensing costs.

Pros

  • Completely free and open-source with no usage limits
  • Strong data validation and custom form tools for efficient entry
  • Cross-platform support and good compatibility with Excel files

Cons

  • Performance can lag with very large datasets
  • Interface feels dated compared to modern alternatives
  • Limited advanced collaboration features like real-time editing

Best For

Budget-conscious users and small teams needing a reliable, no-cost tool for routine data entry and basic spreadsheet tasks.

Pricing

Free and open-source; no paid tiers or subscriptions required.

Visit LibreOffice Calclibreoffice.org
9
FileMaker logo

FileMaker

enterprise

Cross-platform database software with drag-and-drop interface builders for rapid data entry solutions.

Overall Rating7.6/10
Features
8.8/10
Ease of Use
6.4/10
Value
7.1/10
Standout Feature

Powerful visual scripting engine for automating complex data entry workflows without traditional coding

FileMaker is a cross-platform low-code platform from Claris for building custom relational database applications focused on data entry, management, and automation. It allows users to create intuitive forms, scripts, and reports with drag-and-drop tools and a visual interface, supporting complex workflows and integrations. Deployable on Windows, Mac, iOS, web, and via cloud hosting, it's designed for tailored business solutions beyond basic spreadsheets.

Pros

  • Highly customizable forms and layouts for precise data entry
  • Robust multi-user support with strong security and concurrency
  • Cross-platform deployment including native mobile apps and web access

Cons

  • Steep learning curve for beginners without development experience
  • Expensive for simple data entry compared to no-code alternatives
  • Overkill for basic forms with limited out-of-box templates

Best For

Small to medium businesses needing scalable, custom database apps for structured data entry and workflow automation.

Pricing

Starts at $19/user/month (billed annually) for FileMaker Pro; Team plan at $24/user/month; enterprise options with custom pricing.

Visit FileMakerfilemaker.com
10
Jotform logo

Jotform

specialized

Online form builder that automates data entry into spreadsheets and databases via customizable forms.

Overall Rating8.2/10
Features
8.5/10
Ease of Use
9.2/10
Value
7.8/10
Standout Feature

Advanced conditional logic that dynamically shows/hides fields based on user responses

Jotform is a versatile online form builder designed for creating customizable forms to collect data, registrations, payments, and feedback. It offers drag-and-drop tools, conditional logic, and seamless integrations with tools like Google Sheets, AI rtable, and CRM systems for efficient data entry and automation. While powerful for web-based input, it excels in user-generated data capture rather than bulk or desktop-style entry.

Pros

  • Intuitive drag-and-drop interface for quick form creation
  • Extensive integrations for automated data export
  • Mobile-responsive forms with robust conditional logic

Cons

  • Free plan limits submissions and features
  • Advanced automation requires higher-tier plans
  • Less suited for high-volume bulk data entry

Best For

Small businesses and teams needing simple, embeddable online forms for customer data collection.

Pricing

Free plan with limits; paid plans start at $34/month (billed annually) for Bronze tier with more submissions and features.

Visit Jotformjotform.com

Conclusion

The top data entry software options prioritize efficiency and flexibility, with Microsoft Excel standing out as the leading choice, boasting powerful formulas and automation. Google Sheets excels as a collaborative, real-time tool for teamwork, while AI rtable impresses with its hybrid database-spreadsheet interface for intuitive organization. Each offers distinct advantages, ensuring there’s a strong fit for various needs.

Microsoft Excel logo
Our Top Pick
Microsoft Excel

Dive into Microsoft Excel to experience streamlined data entry—its advanced features make it the perfect starting point for mastering efficient data management.