SUMIF vs SUMIFS
SUMIF adds the values that meet one condition; SUMIFS handles several. The catch is the argument order: SUMIF puts the range to add last, SUMIFS puts it first. Pick one habit, usually SUMIFS, and the order stops tripping you up.
The differences
| Feature | SUMIF | SUMIFS |
|---|---|---|
| Conditions | One | One or more, all must be true |
| Argument order | range, criteria, sum_range | sum_range, criteria_range1, criteria1, … |
| When sum_range is left out | Adds the criteria range itself | sum_range is required |
| Available in | Every version | Every version |
Same data, side by side
One sample sheet, each approach in its own cell. Results are calculated by our formula engine.
| Cell | Formula | Result | What it shows |
|---|---|---|---|
| F2 | =SUMIF(A2:A7,"West",C2:C7) | $2,850 | SUMIF: condition range first, sum range last |
| F3 | =SUMIFS(C2:C7,A2:A7,"West") | $2,850 | SUMIFS: sum range first, same answer |
| F4 | =SUMIFS(C2:C7,A2:A7,"West",B2:B7,"Online") | $1,910 | Add a second condition: West and online |
Try it live
Change the inputs or rewrite a formula and compare the results.
When to use each
Choose SUMIF when
There is exactly one condition and you're matching an existing workbook that already uses it.
Choose SUMIFS when
Anything else. It handles one condition just as well and you won't have to rewrite it when a second one appears.
Practice SUMIFS
From lesson 8, COUNTIFS, SUMIFS & AVERAGEIFS. Graded instantly, then re-checked on changed data.
Two-condition total
G5, total the revenue for the region in G2 and the product in G3. Reference the input cells.The functions
SUMIFSUMIF adds up values for the rows that meet one condition: total travel expenses, revenue for one product, every invoice over $500. Every current version.SUMIFSSUMIFS adds the values where every condition is true: East region widget sales, February revenue, large orders from one customer. Every current version.
Questions
Why does my SUMIF return 0?
Usually the criteria don't match exactly (an extra space, or numbers stored as text), or the sum range is in the wrong argument position.
Can SUMIFS sum with OR conditions?
Not in one call. Add two SUMIFS together, one per alternative.
Last reviewed October 2026.