Microsoft Power BI vs Hex
Microsoft Power BI: Microsoft's business intelligence tool with Copilot to build reports and answer data questions. Hex: Collaborative data notebook mixing SQL, Python and AI to explore data and share apps. Here is how they compare on features, pricing, platforms, pros and cons.
Quick verdict
Microsoft Power BI
Best for: Organisations already using Microsoft tools.
Stands out for: Free desktop app; Great with Microsoft 365.
Hex
Best for: Data teams and analysts who work in SQL and Python.
Stands out for: Modern, collaborative workflow; Free plan for individuals.
Side-by-side comparison
| Visit powerbi.microsoft.com (opens in a new tab) | Visit hex.tech (opens in a new tab) | |
|---|---|---|
| What it is | Microsoft's business intelligence tool with Copilot to build reports and answer data questions. | Collaborative data notebook mixing SQL, Python and AI to explore data and share apps. |
| Pricing | Free + Paid | Free + Paid |
| Free to use | Yes | Yes |
| Category | AI Data & Analytics | AI Data & Analytics |
| Editor rank | #2 in category | #4 in category |
| Made by | Microsoft | Hex |
| Best for | Organisations already using Microsoft tools. | Data teams and analysts who work in SQL and Python. |
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Microsoft Power BI vs Hex: questions
Is Microsoft Power BI better than Hex?
Neither wins for everyone. Our editors rank Microsoft Power BI slightly higher overall in AI Data & Analytics, but Hex can be the better fit: Data teams and analysts who work in SQL and Python.
Which is free, Microsoft Power BI or Hex?
Both can be used without paying: Microsoft Power BI is free + paid and Hex is free + paid. Paid plans add more usage or features.
Can I use Microsoft Power BI and Hex together?
Yes. Many people keep both and pick per task, for example turn Excel data into a live dashboard with Microsoft Power BI, and write a SQL query from a plain question with Hex.