When we talk about business intelligence and data visualization, Power Bi and Tableau are the best tools on the scene. Data analysts always keep wondering over the comparison between Power BI vs Tableau.

Both applications have evolved significantly since their inception.

Many data experts have been facing this dilemma for quite some time now. Let’s analyze the comparison between two powerful data visualization software – Power BI and Tableau to arrive at a rational choice.

1. Power BI vs Tableau pricing comparison

   When it comes to comparing prices for Power BI vs Tableau, there is a no-contest here. The Power BI Pro is comparable with the Tableau Creator for individuals. Both are on the opposite ends of the spectrum for pricing because Power BI is way more affordable than Tableau. Both these BI tools are available in individual and enterprise versions, the difference in the cost varies significantly in the enterprise version. Again, there is a stark contrast in the Power Bi Pro pricing against Tableau Creator as the latter being too costly. While you can buy Power BI as a package with Office 365 or even as a standalone product, Tableau is offered on a per user basis.

2. Integration features in Power BI and Tableau

   Since Power BI is a Microsoft product, it comes with an in-built Office 365 integration. Power BI is available with Office 365 Enterprise E5 plan, which supports other Microsoft products and services including Office, Exchange, OneDrive, and SharePoint. This allows Power BI to use the data and analytics features available on other Office 365 tools. It can just as easily be used as a part of a bigger workflow as a standalone application allowing users to leverage organization level dependencies from several data sources with minimal coding knowledge. In comparison, Tableau has very scarce extensibility with popular products.

3. Data wrangling capabilities in Power BI and Tableau

   Transforming data into visual insights is one of the most important aspects of business intelligence. Power BI offers several methods for data wrangling which can be done either while generating reports or while importing data into Power BI. When trying to explore data within Power BI, the speed and lead time for data presentation are faster. This gives the Power BI an edge over Tableau.

   On the other hand, Tableau offers powerful tools for transforming data into actionable insights with compelling visuals. Users can build informative dashboards and perform a wide range of ad-hoc analysis with a few clicks.

4. Power BI vs Tableau security features

   Microsoft takes security very seriously for all of its products and services. Power BI is no different. It meets all the security and compliance requirements at the highest level. As a champion of data protection, Microsoft has been investing in security for years. In comparison, Tableau is known for its visualization features, and not for the security requirements.

5. Support – Power BI vs Tableau

   Tableau provides access to Standard Support as a part of its subscription. It is valid with license purchases for one year after which users will have to perform a Maintenance Renewal annually. Users can also avail of the Extended Support and Premium Support program that Tableau offers.

   Power BI offers users multiple support channels for different purposes. It maintains an active peer-to-peer support community called the Power BI community where users can find answers and guidance on topics such as best practices. The Power BI Support Site can be used by Pro and Premium users for technical help with content on Power BI as well as administration support. The Microsoft 365 admin center provides users with billing and enterprise-level support. Most queries can also be resolved through a dedicated phone number.

   Both Power BI and Tableau provide similar support for users. The difference lies in the paid support packages that Tableau offers should you decide on purchasing one.

The winner

So, what should you choose – Power BI or Tableau? We leave it up to you.

Both tools bring to the table unique strengths that cater to the requirement of different organizations in their own signature ways. If it is the power of visualization along with the brute force of data crunching that serves your purpose, Tableau is the winner hands down. On the other hand, if you are looking for a solution that neatly integrates with your existing Microsoft apps for day-to-day analytics and is relatively more flexible with reports, Power BI is the better option.

Should you require further help, Apps4Rent provides Power BI chat support to assist you with your queries. We hope you are in a better position to make the right decision.