Ampler vs AECharts (2026)
Ampler is a PowerPoint add-in that positions itself as a think-cell alternative. AECharts is browser-based — same chart types, no installation required.
Ampler Charts installs inside PowerPoint on Windows. It offers 40 chart types, automated annotations, and Excel linking — a similar workflow to think-cell, starting at €12/month for the Charts add-in alone.
AECharts runs in the browser on Mac and PC. It covers advanced chart types including waterfall, Mekko, dumbbell, pareto, and funnel, and exports as native editable shapes for PowerPoint, Google Slides, and Keynote. No installation. No IT approval. $12/month.
If your team works entirely inside Windows PowerPoint with Excel-linked charts, Ampler's workflow fits. If you need the same chart quality on Mac, in Google Slides, or without an IT process, AECharts covers it.
Use Ampler when
- Your entire team works in Windows PowerPoint and needs in-deck Excel linking
- You're already evaluating think-cell and want a lower-cost add-in alternative
- You want automated annotations and chart formatting inside PowerPoint
- Your firm can deploy a Windows add-in through IT
Use AECharts when
- You work on Mac or need Google Slides or Keynote output
- You need Mekko, dumbbell, or pareto charts — types Ampler does not confirm
- You want to start immediately without installation or IT approval
- You need a permanent free tier before committing to a paid plan
Feature comparison
Based on publicly available information, last verified July 2026. Ampler does not publicly document all chart types — verify specific types with their team.
| Feature | Ampler | AECharts |
|---|---|---|
| Chart types | 40 chart types | 20+ including waterfall, Mekko, dumbbell, pareto, funnel |
| Waterfall chart | Yes | Yes |
| Mekko / Marimekko chart | Not publicly listed | Yes |
| Dumbbell chart | Not publicly listed | Yes |
| Automated annotations | Yes | Yes — freehand annotations |
| Browser-based (no install) | PowerPoint add-in — Windows only | Yes — works in any browser |
| Works on Mac | No | Yes |
| Live data connection | Excel linking | Google Sheets |
| Google Slides / Keynote export | No | Yes — native editable shapes |
| Free tier | No | Yes — image export, no time limit |
| Pricing | From €12/month (Charts only) | $12/month |
How AECharts works
No add-in, no admin rights, no annual contract:
Paste or upload your data
CSV, Excel, or paste directly from a spreadsheet. AECharts reads your columns and builds the chart.
Apply your brand
Set colors, fonts, and logo in Brand Kit. Every chart uses them automatically.
Drop into PowerPoint, Google Slides, or Keynote
Native editable shapes. Recipients do not need AECharts installed to open or edit the file.
FAQ
Try AECharts free
No installation. Paste your data, pick a chart type, and drop it into PowerPoint, Google Slides, or Keynote.
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