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Excel spreadsheets continue to be the primary tool for data management and analysis in the business world. Consequently, several Python packages have been developed to automate and enhance Excel’s capabilities.
This post aims to evaluate and differentiate between two such packages: openpyxl and xlsxwriter. Although both are comprehensive in their features, they serve somewhat different purposes. This blog post will delve into their similarities and distinctions, as well as their individual strengths and weaknesses. The goal is to provide guidance in choosing the most suitable tool for your Python projects.
Similarities
At their core, both openpyxl and xlsxwriter share fundamental uses in operating on Excel files through Python code. They share many functionalities toward this end, such as the ability to create and save .xlsx files.
Both libraries enable writing various types of data to Excel sheets, including text, numbers, formulas, and hyperlinks. They also offer features for formatting and styling cells, with options to set font properties, cell colors, and border styles. Additionally, both openpyxl and xlsxwriter support the inclusion of Excel formulas in cells and provide tools for managing worksheet operations, such as adding or modifying worksheets.
Furthermore, they are equipped with capabilities to add charts and images to Excel worksheets, enhancing the visual presentation and data representation in spreadsheets. These similarities make them both valuable tools for Excel file manipulation in Python, particularly for tasks involving the creation and styling of spreadsheet data.
Differences
The divergence between openpyxl and xlsxwriter becomes apparent when we consider their specific capabilities and features.
openpyxl: The generalist
openpyxl shines in scenarios where there’s a need to read, write, and modify .xlsx files. This makes it a go-to for projects that require interacting with existing spreadsheets, whether it’s for data extraction, analysis, or updates.
It supports a vast array of Excel features, including formulas, charts, and tables. This extensive functionality, however, comes with a complexity that might be overwhelming for beginners and can be slower when dealing with large files.
xlsxwriter: The specialist
On the other hand, xlsxwriter excels in creating new .xlsx files from the ground up. As suggested in its name, it doesn’t facilitate reading or altering existing spreadsheets, but it’s highly proficient in crafting new ones with intricate formatting and styling.
Its performance is notably robust, especially when handling large-scale files, making it a preferred choice for generating complex, stylized reports from scratch.
Popularity
Both openpyxl and xlsxwriter have established themselves as popular choices in the Python community, with openpyxl enjoying a slight edge in overall popularity. This is understandable, considering that openpyxl provides a more comprehensive range of features.
However, this doesn’t imply that xlsxwriter is inferior. In situations where a more streamlined solution is required for creating extensive and intricate Excel workbooks, xlsxwriter becomes indispensable. Its sustained search interest on Google Trends is a testament to its relevance and utility.
Note: If you’re unable to view the below Google Trends visualization below at first, refreshing the page might help. You can also visit the page directly here.
Conclusion
Choosing between openpyxl and wlsxwriter boils down to the specific requirements of your project. If your work involves a lot of interaction with existing Excel files, especially those requiring advanced features, openpyxl probably right for you. Conversely, if your focus is on generating new, large, well-formatted Excel reports from scratch, xlswriter is your best bet.
Both libraries have etched their mark in the Python for Excel ecosystem, each championing in their respective arenas. Understanding their unique strengths and limitations is key to harnessing their full potential in your Excel-related Python projects.
