Xlrd vs xlwings

Developers should learn Xlrd when working with legacy Excel meets developers should learn xlwings when they need to automate excel-based processes, integrate python data analysis or machine learning models into excel, or build interactive excel applications with python backend logic. Here's our take.

Xlrd

Nice Pick

Developers should learn Xlrd when working with legacy Excel

Pros

• xls files in Python, as it provides a simple and efficient way to parse spreadsheet data without requiring Microsoft Excel
• Related to: python, pandas

Cons

• Specific tradeoffs depend on your use case

xlwings

Developers should learn xlwings when they need to automate Excel-based processes, integrate Python data analysis or machine learning models into Excel, or build interactive Excel applications with Python backend logic

Pros

• It is ideal for use cases such as financial modeling, data reporting, dashboard creation, and automating data entry or formatting tasks in Excel, especially in environments where Excel is the primary tool for business users
• Related to: python, pandas

Cons

• Specific tradeoffs depend on your use case

The Verdict

Use Xlrd if: You want xls files in python, as it provides a simple and efficient way to parse spreadsheet data without requiring microsoft excel and can live with specific tradeoffs depend on your use case.

Use xlwings if: You prioritize it is ideal for use cases such as financial modeling, data reporting, dashboard creation, and automating data entry or formatting tasks in excel, especially in environments where excel is the primary tool for business users over what Xlrd offers.

The Bottom Line

Xlrd wins

Developers should learn Xlrd when working with legacy Excel