Can Array Formulas slow down XL?

[Salomey]

Greetings!

I have 6 formulas in my worksheet with {} (array formulas) and I have noticed that each time I press F9 Excel recalculation time takes around 3-5 seconds when usually it takes less than a second. This is especially noticeable when I run the file (around 8-10 seconds).

If I remove {} from formulas Excel works pretty fast. But unfortunately I have to use array formulas.
Are there any ways to avoid slowing down Excel recalculation time?

Thank you

[romperstomper]

Array formulas are generally slower than non-array formulas. No way round that if you have to use them, but we can't really assist you if we have no idea what the formulas are.

[JBeaucaire]

The reason people use array formulas is because they typically need a specific calculation to be run on every row/column of a range of cells, the function to be run is specific and the results have to be dealt with as a whole...AND they want to do all of this in a single cell.

That's a lot of plumbing and the resulting slow down is a natural result.

Pretty much all array formulas can be replaced with "helper columns/rows" added to the data that allows these functions to be run on each row/column separately and the results listed in this helper column. Since the basic formula is now being run on simple ranges, the performance hit goes away and the cell where your current ARRAY formula is can have a simpler formula in it that simply evaluates the results of the helper columns.

So, array formulas use less real estate, but cause a performance hit.
Helper columns expand your data set, but restore efficiency.

It's a trade off.

I typically only use arrays on small data ranges. If the range is more than 5-10 cells, I add a helper column. If the helper column is unsightly, I just hide it.

[JBeaucaire]

If that takes care of your need, please click EDIT in your original post, click GO ADVANCED and set the PREFIX box to SOLVED.