Budget App or Spreadsheet? Pros and Cons for Aussies
Spreadsheets
Flexible, cheap and private if you keep the file yourself. They need a bit of comfort with Excel or Google Sheets.
Bank-linked budget apps
Convenient auto-import, but often a subscription, and you share bank data with a third party.
Offline browser apps
A middle path: app-style dashboards, data kept on your own device, and bank CSV import instead of a live bank connection. That's the approach we took with Slate Money HQ.
Pick what you'll actually use each payday. That matters more than the tool.
FAQ
Is a budget app or spreadsheet better?
Spreadsheets are flexible and one-off; apps are quicker day to day. Pick the one you'll actually use.
Where is my data stored in Slate Money HQ?
Only on your own device, in your browser.
General information only, not financial or tax advice. Check ato.gov.au or a registered tax agent for your situation.
Try it in an app
Fortnightly Budget Dashboard (A$29, one-off): Plan every payday: bills smoothed across fortnights, a tick-off payday planner, three-pay months and savings goals.