Function Problems

XMATCH vs. XLOOKUP in Excel: Differences and Best Use Cases

Huda Qurayshi Sep 28, 2026 869 views

Question details

The user wants to understand the technical differences between the XMATCH and XLOOKUP functions to determine the best use cases for retrieving data and indexing in spreadsheets.

XMATCH vs. XLOOKUP in Excel: Differences and Uses

Product: Excel
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Comparing modern dynamic array functions for efficient data lookup, position indexing, and array manipulation.
Observed behavior: The user is seeking clarification on how return values, match modes, search options, and practical applications differ between the two functions.

Before you start

Ensure you are using a modern spreadsheet application (such as Microsoft 365, Excel 2021, or the latest version of WPS Office) that supports dynamic array functions, as older versions do not include XMATCH or XLOOKUP.

Solution 1Recommended

Key Differences and When to Choose Which

A direct comparison of features to help you choose the right function for your specific data analysis task.

While both functions share similar matching and search mode arguments (exact, approximate, reverse, binary), their primary purpose dictates when they should be used. Choosing between them depends on whether you need the actual data or just its location.

Compare Return Values

XLOOKUP searches one range and directly returns the related data value from another range. XMATCH searches an array and returns only the relative numeric position (the index number) of the matching item.

Check Error Handling Capabilities

XLOOKUP includes a built-in 'if_not_found' argument (the 4th argument) to easily manage errors if no match is found. XMATCH lacks this built-in argument and requires wrapping the formula in an IFERROR function.

Determine the Best Use Case

Use XLOOKUP for direct data retrieval, building dashboards, and replacing VLOOKUP/HLOOKUP. Use XMATCH when you need a positional number to feed into other functions like INDEX or OFFSET, or when performing complex two-way lookups.

Key Differences and When to Choose Which

Performance Tip: If you need to retrieve values from multiple columns based on a single lookup value, using one XMATCH to find the row index combined with multiple INDEX functions can be computationally faster than running multiple standalone XLOOKUPs.

Solution 2

How to Use XLOOKUP to Retrieve Related Data

Use XLOOKUP when your primary goal is to fetch a specific value from a corresponding row or column based on your search criteria.

Solution 3

How to Use XMATCH for Positional Indexing

Use XMATCH when you need to know exactly where an item is located within a list, rather than the item itself.

Advanced Spreadsheet Functions

Perform Complex Lookups Seamlessly with WPS Spreadsheet

WPS Spreadsheet provides robust, out-of-the-box support for modern dynamic array functions, including XLOOKUP and XMATCH. You can process complex datasets, perform two-way lookups, and retrieve data without worrying about compatibility issues.

1. Open your dataset: Launch WPS Spreadsheet and open your existing workbook containing the data you need to analyze.
2. Enter the formula: Select a blank cell and type '=XLOOKUP(' or '=XMATCH(' to activate the intelligent formula tooltip guide.
3. Select your arrays and execute: Highlight your lookup_array and return_array directly in the sheet using your mouse, configure any optional arguments, and press Enter to instantly fetch the result.

100% compatibility with Microsoft Excel XLOOKUP and XMATCH formulas.Process heavy datasets quickly with a lightweight software architecture.Access powerful, modern data analysis tools for free.Intuitive formula syntax tooltips to guide you through complex arguments.

microsoft office alternative - wps office

Frequently Asked Questions

Can XMATCH and XLOOKUP search both horizontally and vertically?

Yes, both functions are highly flexible and can search either rows (horizontal) or columns (vertical) without needing different formulas, effectively replacing the need for separate VLOOKUP and HLOOKUP functions.

Why does my XLOOKUP formula return a #NAME? error?

This error typically occurs if you are using an older version of your spreadsheet software (such as Excel 2016 or 2019) that does not support dynamic array functions. You need Microsoft 365, Excel 2021, or the latest version of WPS Office.

Can I perform a reverse search with these functions?

Yes. Both XMATCH and XLOOKUP feature a 'search_mode' argument. By setting this argument to -1, you command the function to search from the last item to the first item (bottom-to-top or right-to-left), ensuring you find the latest entry.

Which is faster for large datasets: XLOOKUP or INDEX/XMATCH?

Both are highly optimized. However, INDEX/XMATCH can be slightly faster in massive datasets if you need to return multiple columns based on a single match, because the match position (the heavy calculation) only needs to be processed once.

Excel & Data Problems