Excel Date Picker Alternatives: Built-in Options vs Add-ins

Option 1: Microsoft Date and Time Picker Control

Microsoft once provided a Date Picker ActiveX control (MSCAL.ocx) that could be embedded in worksheets.

Status: Deprecated. The control was removed from 64-bit Office and newer versions. It's no longer supported.

If you have old workbooks using this control, they likely show errors or blanks on modern Excel.

Option 2: VBA Userform Calendar

You can create a VBA userform with a calendar control that pops up when needed.

Pros:

• Free (if you know VBA)
• Customizable
• Works in macro-enabled files

Cons:

• Requires VBA knowledge to build and maintain
• File must be macro-enabled (.xlsm)
• Security policies may block macros
• Doesn't work in Excel Online

Option 3: Power Apps Integration

Microsoft 365 allows embedding Power Apps in Excel, which can include date pickers.

Reality check: This requires Power Apps licensing, significant setup, and is overkill for simple date entry. It's designed for complex form scenarios, not everyday spreadsheet use.

Option 4: ActiveX Controls (Windows Only)

Developer tab → Insert → ActiveX Controls → More Controls → Microsoft Date and Time Picker.

Limitations:

• Windows only — doesn't work on Mac
• Requires Developer tab enabled
• ActiveX has security restrictions in many organizations
• Control availability varies by Office version
• Must be in Design Mode to configure

Option 5: Third-Party Add-ins

Dedicated Excel add-ins (COM add-ins or VSTO add-ins) can provide date picker functionality without VBA in each file.

Pros:

• Works in any workbook once installed
• No macros required in the file
• Professional-quality interface
• Maintained and updated by developers

Cons:

• Usually paid (after trial)
• Must be installed on each computer
• IT approval may be required in corporate environments

Official Resources

• Insert current date — built-in date entry
• Get add-ins for Excel — Excel add-in marketplace