Online vs Classroom Excel Training – Which Format Should You Choose?

When it comes to improving your spreadsheet skills, the question isn’t just which course to take, but which format to learn in.

Excel is at the centre of so many businesses, and selecting the right delivery will make a big difference to how effectively you learn – and how quickly you apply those skills back at work.

So, should you attend a face-to-face classroom Excel course or choose the convenience of an online format?

There’s no single right answer. The best choice depends on your objectives, schedule, and learning style.

Our Excel training runs both in London and online, because both are valuable and worth going on!

The Rise of Online Excel Training

Imagine logging on at 9:30 am with a cup of coffee, joining a live online Excel session from your home or office.

The instructor demonstrates formulas, charts, and data tools in real time while you follow along on your own spreadsheet.

By lunchtime, you’re already applying what you’ve learned to real business data.

More and more people have been offering online courses over the years, travel time and venue costs get eliminated, remote and hybrid work is common – so online training seems natural, and modern online courses have excellent quality.

Alongside this, interactive tools like breakout rooms, live chat, and polls help enhance user engagement. All the while they have the same experienced instructors who teach in classrooms, even when they aren’t in the country!

The modern online Excel training experience

• Live instructor-led sessions: ask questions, share screens, and get immediate help.

• Interactive exercises: work through practical examples during the session.

• Session recordings: review key sections at your own pace afterwards.

• Access from anywhere: learn from your office, home, or on the go.

• Lower cost per delegate: no venue or travel expenses.

Classroom Excel Courses: The Power of Being There

There’s still something special about a face-to-face training environment: desks set up for collaboration, peers working on the same challenges, and an instructor who can see confusion before you even raise your hand.

Why classroom training remains strong

Classroom training still gives the most immediate feedback possible, trainers get a feel for your understanding and can adjust their pace accordingly.

It also has a hands-on environment, which fits much better especially for more complex topics like macros, formulas and financial modelling.

You also get the chance to share things with the other people in the room, and learn from your peers, which just isn’t quite the same online.

How to Measure “Better Results” in 2026

So which format makes for the best Excel course? The answer depends on what matters most to you.

1. Skill Retention

Online formats make it easy to revisit recordings and notes, improving long-term retention.

Classroom formats offer immediate clarification and hands-on feedback, which also aids memory.

2. Real-World Application

Online learners often apply new skills right away on their own machines.

Classroom learners benefit from dedicated time away from distractions to practise intensively.

3. Flexibility & Access

Online training clearly wins for flexibility — no travel, no fixed location, and easy access from anywhere.

Classroom training suits those who learn best through human interaction and real-time collaboration.

4. Engagement & Motivation

Modern online sessions use breakout rooms, chat, and quizzes to keep participants engaged.

That said, the atmosphere of a physical classroom and the energy of peers can be hard to replicate.

5. Cost & ROI

Online courses tend to be more affordable.

However, the true return on investment comes from how well you can apply what you learn — not just from saving on travel.

So, Which Format Wins?

Neither format is universally better — the right choice depends on your goals.