| Category | Power BI | TIBCO Spotfire |
|---|---|---|
| Company | Microsoft | TIBCO Software |
| Programming | DAX, M, R, Python | IronPython, R, Python, TERR |
| Tech Stack | .NET, Azure, VertiPaq | Java, .NET, TERR, PostgreSQL |
| Cost & Free Version | Free Desktop; Pro at $10/user/month | Trial available; starts at ~$25/user/month |
| Desktop Client | Power BI Desktop (free) | Spotfire Analyst (trial version) |
| Cloud & Architecture | Cloud-native SaaS, Azure-integrated | Cloud-supported, also on-prem & hybrid |
| Subscription Model | Per-user SaaS (Pro, Premium, Fabric) | License or cloud subscription (user/core-based) |
| Unique Visuals | Decomposition Tree, Smart Narratives, Q&A | Real-time charts, control charts, stat overlays |
| Use Case Fit | Business dashboards, reports | Scientific, IoT, real-time analytics |
| Analytics Strength | BI, AI visuals, ease of use | Statistical, streaming, advanced analytics |
| Scripting Support | Basic scripting | Advanced scripting (IronPython, R/Python) |
| Integration | Strong with Microsoft tools | Strong with industrial systems (OPC, MQTT) |
| Community & Support | Massive community, rich visual marketplace | Niche expert community, strong enterprise support |