Microsoft Excel is an essential tool for businesses, analysts, and students worldwide. However, it is not uncommon for Excel files to become corrupted due to various reasons such as system crashes, virus attacks, or abrupt shutdowns.
Losing important data can be frustrating, and that’s where Stellar Repair for Excel comes in. This software claims to repair damaged Excel files and recover critical data while maintaining the integrity of the original file.
In this review, we will dive deep into the capabilities, performance, user experience, and pricing of Stellar Repair for Excel to help you decide whether it is worth investing in.
Key Features of Stellar Repair for Excel
Stellar Repair for Excel offers an array of features designed to ensure smooth and efficient Excel file repair. Below are the most notable ones:
1. Comprehensive File Repair
The software supports the recovery of corrupted .xls, .xlsx, .xltm, .xltx, and .xlsm files. It can repair all kinds of corruption issues, from minor formatting errors to major structural damage.
2. Preserves Formatting and Data Integrity
One of the biggest concerns when repairing an Excel file is data loss. Stellar Repair for Excel ensures that all cell formatting, charts, pivot tables, and formulas remain intact, allowing users to continue working seamlessly after file recovery.
3. Batch File Repair Support
For professionals dealing with multiple corrupted Excel files, Stellar Repair for Excel offers batch processing. This means you can repair multiple files simultaneously, saving time and effort.
4. Preview Feature
Before saving the repaired file, the software provides a preview of the recovered data. This feature allows users to verify that the repair was successful and that all critical information is intact.
5. Easy-to-Use Interface
Stellar Repair for Excel has a simple and user-friendly interface that does not require technical expertise. The step-by-step recovery process makes it accessible to users of all skill levels.
6. Compatibility with All Excel Versions
The software is compatible with Excel 365, 2021, 2019, 2016, 2013, 2010, and older versions, ensuring wide usability across different systems.
How Stellar Repair for Excel Works
The process of repairing an Excel file using this software is straightforward. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Download and Install
Download Stellar Repair for Excel from the official website and install it on your Windows PC.
Step 2: Launch the Software and Select the Corrupted File
Once installed, open the software and browse for the corrupted Excel file that needs repair.
Step 3: Start the Repair Process
Click on the “Repair” button. The software will scan the file for corruption and initiate the repair process.
Step 4: Preview the Repaired File
After completion, Stellar Repair for Excel will display a preview of the restored data.
Step 5: Save the Recovered File
If everything looks good, save the repaired file to your desired location.
Performance and Effectiveness
To evaluate the effectiveness of Stellar Repair for Excel, we tested it with various Excel files that were intentionally corrupted. Here are our observations:
1. Repair Speed
- Small Excel files (less than 1MB) were repaired within seconds.
- Medium-sized files (5MB-10MB) took around 1-2 minutes.
- Large files (50MB+) required 5-7 minutes
Note: Depending on the level of corruption of all files sizes.
2. Accuracy of Data Recovery
- In most cases, the software successfully recovered all formulas, pivot tables, and charts.
- Complex conditional formatting was preserved.
- A few minor formatting inconsistencies were observed in highly corrupted files, but these were easily fixable.
3. Success Rate
- Our test results showed a 95% success rate in recovering corrupted Excel files.
- For files that were severely damaged, partial recovery was possible.
User Experience and Interface
Stellar Repair for Excel is designed with ease of use in mind. The installation process is quick, and the interface is intuitive. The three-step repair process (Select File -> Repair -> Save) makes it accessible even for non-technical users.
Pros:
✔ Simple and clean user interface. ✔ Step-by-step guided repair process. ✔ No prior technical knowledge required.
Cons:
✖ No Mac version available (Windows-only software). ✖ Limited features in the free trial version.
Pricing Plans
Stellar Repair for Excel offers different pricing tiers based on user needs:
1. Single User License – $39.00/year
- Suitable for individual users who need to repair Excel files occasionally.
2. File Repair Toolkit – $69.00/year
- Includes tools to repair Excel, Word, PowerPoint, and PDF files.
- Ideal for businesses dealing with multiple file formats.
3. Technician License – $199.00/year
- Allows installation on three different systems.
- Best suited for IT professionals and corporate teams.
A free trial version is available but only allows file preview; saving the repaired file requires a paid subscription.
Comparison with Competitors
Here’s how Stellar Repair for Excel compares with other Excel recovery tools:
| Feature | Stellar Repair for Excel | Recovery Toolbox for Excel | Kernel Excel Repair |
| File Formats Supported | .xls, .xlsx, .xltm, .xltx, .xlsm | .xls, .xlsx | .xls, .xlsx |
| Batch Processing | Yes | No | No |
| Preview Feature | Yes | No | Yes |
| Maintains Formatting | Yes | Partial | Partial |
| User Interface | Very User-Friendly | Basic | Moderate |
| Price | $39 – $199/year | $27 (one-time) | $49 (one-time) |
Stellar Repair for Excel offers more features than its competitors, making it a great option for users who prioritize data accuracy, batch processing, and ease of use.
Final Verdict: Is Stellar Repair for Excel Worth It?
If you frequently work with Excel and need a reliable solution to repair corrupted files, Stellar Repair for Excel is one of the best options available.
It offers a great balance of performance, usability, and value, making it a recommended choice for both individuals and businesses.
Final Rating: 4.5/5 ⭐