Easy Tech TutsHow to Create a Matrix in Power BI (Pivot-Style Reports) Easily 2026
By Impran M N
Pivot-style reports remain one of the clearest ways to compare numbers across categories, and Power BI's Matrix visual brings that same power into an interactive report. This guide covers setting up a matrix from your data model through to formatting it for clarity. It's built for business analysts who want the flexibility of a pivot table with the visual polish of Power BI.
01Set up your data model
Make sure the tables and relationships supporting your matrix are in place, since the matrix relies on properly connected fields to summarize correctly.
02Create a matrix visual
Select the Matrix visual from the visualizations pane, then assign rows, columns, and values from your data to build the initial pivot-style layout.
03Format the matrix for clarity
Adjust subtotal and grand total settings, apply conditional formatting where helpful, and fine-tune spacing so the report is easy to scan.
04Explore business analytics use cases
Apply the matrix to scenarios like comparing regional sales across product categories or tracking performance metrics across multiple time periods.
05Integrate with automation and other sources
Connect the underlying data to sources that refresh automatically, so the matrix stays current without needing to rebuild it each time.
Frequently asked questions
How is a Matrix visual different from a Table visual in Power BI?
A Table displays flat rows and columns, while a Matrix supports hierarchical rows and columns with expandable groupings, much like a traditional pivot table.
Can I drill down into a matrix the way I would with a chart?
Yes, matrices support drill-down when hierarchies are added to rows or columns, letting users expand from a summary level into more detail.
Can I export a Matrix visual to Excel?
Yes, matrix data can generally be exported to Excel or CSV directly from the report, preserving the underlying structure.
Why are my subtotals not showing up in the matrix?
This is usually controlled by a formatting toggle for row or column subtotals, which may need to be turned on manually in the visual's settings.
Watch the full walkthrough
The same steps, demonstrated on screen from start to finish.
