The C# Excel Library
using IronXL;
using System;
using System.Linq;
// Supported for XLSX, XLS, XLSM, XLTX, CSV and TSV
WorkBook workBook = WorkBook.Load("sample.xlsx");
// Select worksheet at index 0
WorkSheet workSheet = workBook.WorkSheets[0];
// Get any existing worksheet
WorkSheet firstSheet = workBook.DefaultWorkSheet;
// Select a cell and return the converted value
int cellValue = workSheet["A2"].IntValue;
// Read from ranges of cells elegantly.
foreach (var cell in workSheet["A2:A10"])
{
Console.WriteLine("Cell {0} has value '{1}'", cell.AddressString, cell.Text);
}
// Calculate aggregate values such as Min, Max and Sum
decimal sum = workSheet["A2:A10"].Sum();
// Linq compatible
decimal max = workSheet["A2:A10"].Max(c => c.DecimalValue);
Install-Package IronXL.Excel
Excel files are widely used in various business contexts, particularly for data analysis and reporting. They provide a versatile platform for organizing, storing, and manipulating data. Excel's popularity stems from its ability to handle large datasets, complex calculations, and varied formatting options.
In the .NET framework, managing spreadsheet files programmatically can be challenging. Key considerations include how to efficiently read, write, and manipulate Excel files, handle different file formats like XLSX and CSV, and integrate Excel functionality into .NET applications without relying on Microsoft Office.
This article will explore three C# Open Source Excel libraries designed to simplify Excel file manipulation in a .NET environment. We will discuss their functionalities, as well as the advantages and disadvantages of using them. The libraries are:
We'll also discuss IronXL as a solid Excel library for all types of complex Excel operations in C#.
FastExcel is an open-source C# .NET library designed for efficient reading and writing of Excel XLSX format spreadsheets. It stands out for its ability to handle these operations rapidly, thanks to its small memory footprint. This is achieved by bypassing the Open XML SDK for data interaction and working directly with the underlying existing Open XML spreadsheets of Excel.
The primary objective of FastExcel is to offer a lightweight and fast method for interacting with Excel data, focusing on basic Excel functionalities. It's not intended to replace more feature-rich Excel packages that include advanced features like formatting. However, it excels in operations such as reading and writing Excel files, fetching cell ranges, managing Excel tables, rows, and columns, inserting texts, adding images or new sheets, file protection, and formula calculation.
Spreadsheet Light, an effective free library in the realm of C# Excel library open source, is based on the powerful Open XML SDK. It's designed for developers who need a lightweight yet powerful tool for working with Excel files in .NET applications. This library supports various aspects of Microsoft Excel, allowing for efficient manipulation of Excel file formats and Excel spreadsheets.
NExcel is a C# open-source Excel library that enables .NET applications to read Excel spreadsheets. It's compatible with Excel versions from 97 onwards and is easy to use and deploy in both Windows and ASP.NET Web applications. Written entirely in C#, it doesn't require Microsoft Office Excel or any third-party libraries. NExcel supports features like reading data, font and number formatting, and formulas. However, the current version only supports reading, not writing, NExcel spreadsheets and can't process spreadsheets with images. It requires Microsoft .NET Framework 1.0 or later to operate.
IronXL is a .NET Excel library tailored for managing and manipulating Excel files within the .NET environment. You can read and write Excel files with a few lines of code using IronXL. It is built to work seamlessly with C# and specializes in handling various spreadsheet formats such as XLSX, XLS, and CSV.
IronXL is particularly useful for projects where Excel file manipulation is required without installing Microsoft Office. This makes it a valuable tool for server-side applications, web applications, and other scenarios where Office Interop is impractical or impossible.
IronXL is a licensed product, which may be a consideration for budget-conscious projects or individuals.
After examining the capabilities of IronXL, FastExcel, Spreadsheet Light, and NExcel, it becomes apparent that IronXL is the standout choice between .NET Excel libraries. Its strengths lie in its ability to handle complex Excel tasks with ease and efficiency. It supports the latest operating systems and .NET frameworks, making it highly adaptable.
Regular updates ensure optimal performance and cutting-edge features. IronXL simplifies Excel file manipulation, offering robust functionality for reading, writing, and editing, all within a few lines of code. This library's ability to integrate seamlessly into diverse .NET applications makes it an invaluable tool for developers. License of IronXL starts from $749. You can get more information from the image below or the IronXL license page.
Ultimately, the choice of an open-source C# Excel library depends on the specific needs of your project, the data you're working with, and the framework within which you're operating. Whether your focus is on creating new worksheets, handling complex calculations, or simply writing Excel files efficiently, there's an open-source library suited to your requirements.
Install-Package IronXL.Excel
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If it is not, please contact
support@ironsoftware.com
Get started for FREE
No credit card required
Test in production without watermarks.
Works wherever you need it to.
Get 30 days of fully functional product.
Have it up and running in minutes.
Full access to our support engineering team during your product trial
Licenses from $749. Have a question? Get in touch.
9 .NET API products for your office documents
