SharePoint List and Microsoft List are different products even though they share similar names and same features.
In this article, we’ll break down the key features, similarities and differences between SharePoint List and Microsoft List in an easy-to-understand manner.
Key Facts
- SharePoint List allows you to create, organise, and manage lists of data within SharePoint sites.
- Microsoft List, a standalone tool, is an evolved form of SharePoint List that extends its capabilities beyond SharePoint.
- The key difference between SharePoint List and Microsoft List is that SharePoint List functions within the SharePoint environment, while Microsoft List offers broader accessibility, allowing users to create and manage lists across all Microsoft 365 platforms including Microsoft Teams.
SharePoint List vs Microsoft List
SharePoint List and Microsoft List, although similar-sounding, serve unique roles in the Microsoft ecosystem. Understanding their features can help you make an informed choice to suit your business needs.
SharePoint List
SharePoint List is a component of SharePoint Online, enabling users to organise, manage, and share information.
Key Features of SharePoint List
- Collaboration: multiple users can work on the same data simultaneously.
- Version Control: it keeps track of changes, allowing easy reversal when needed.
- Customisation: users can create custom views and filters according to their needs.
- Integrated Experience: being part of SharePoint, it works seamlessly within SharePoint sites.
When to Use SharePoint List
SharePoint List is best suited for teams already using SharePoint for their collaborative needs, who also require comprehensive customisation.
Microsoft List
On the other hand, Microsoft List is an evolution of SharePoint List, but with a wider scope. It’s a standalone tool that lets users create, share, and track data across all Microsoft 365 platforms [1].
Key Features of Microsoft List
- Broad Accessibility: lists can be created and accessed across all Microsoft 365 platforms.
- Easy-to-Use Templates: it offers ready-made templates for common tasks, simplifying the user experience.
- Mobile Accessibility: it has a dedicated mobile app for access on-the-go.
When to Use Microsoft List
Microsoft List is perfect for users needing flexible access to their lists across various Microsoft 365 applications and on mobile devices.
The Bottom Line
While SharePoint List and Microsoft List serve similar data management purposes, they do so in different ways and contexts.
SharePoint List is your go-to tool for deep integration and customisation within the SharePoint environment.
Conversely, Microsoft List offers greater accessibility across Microsoft’s suite, catering to a more flexible, mobile-first work style.
Remember, it’s not about which tool is better overall—it’s about which one best fits your specific needs. By understanding these distinctions, you can make a choice that aligns with your work style and productivity requirements.
