XLOOKUP vs INDEX-MATCH in Excel

Last Updated : 27 May, 2026

XLOOKUP and INDEX-MATCH both retrieve data efficiently, support wildcards, and handle approximate matches. XLOOKUP adds extra benefits, including default results for missing values and options to return the first or last match, while simplifying the formula.YE

We have seen that INDEX/MATCH is a lot quicker than XLOOKUP.

Index-function

In this informational index, we're taking a gander at a bunch of SKUs from an online business store, alongside the number of deals for each. In segment G we've made an equation that looks for the SKU in section B and takes out the comparing number of deals.

Using INDEX+MATCH

Match-function
 

The INDEX function needs two arguments: the array and the row/column number. By combining INDEX with MATCH on the sales range (D3:D10), we can return the total sales for a given SKU. After a few tries, using INDEX+MATCH becomes straightforward. Next, let’s see how XLOOKUP handles this.

Using XLOOKUP

Xlookup-function

Below the INDEX+MATCH formula, an XLOOKUP formula retrieves the same data with less effort. It requires three arguments:

  • Value: What to look for
  • Lookup Array: Where to search
  • Return Array: What to return

XLOOKUP handles almost everything INDEX+MATCH does, while offering additional benefits.

Comparison Between the XLOOKUP Function and the INDEX-MATCH Function

Presently we have separated the recipe, we should examine a few similitudes and dissimilarities between the two capacities. Below major points in a table are shown for your convenience.

Place of Discussion

Similar or Dissimilar

Clarification

Column lookup_arraySimilarBoth help a section as the lookup_array.
Row lookup_arraySimilarBoth help a row as the lookup_array.
No Matching of lookup_valueDissimilarXLOOKUP has the default setup choice for no matching of the lookup_value. Yet, the INDEX-MATCH doesn't have.
Approximate matchPartial SimilarityXLOOKUP can figure out the following more modest or the following bigger worth when there is no accurate match. INDEX-MATCH can likewise do such, however, the lookup_array should be arranged in climbing or sliding request.
Matching WildcardsSimilarBoth help matching Wildcards.
Multiple Values MatchingPartial SimilarityXLOOKUP can figure out either the first or the last worth when different qualities match. Yet, INDEX-MATCH can return the principal esteem that matches.
Array FormulaSimilarBoth support the array formula.
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