Clustered Column

Multiple columns grouped side by side for each category to compare sub-groups. This layout makes it easy to compare individual values across groups while still seeing the overall pattern per category.

Best for

  • Directly comparing sub-group values across categories
  • Showing performance of multiple items side by side
  • Highlighting relative differences between grouped items

Avoid when

  • There are too many sub-groups causing visual clutter
  • You need to show cumulative totals — use a stacked column
  • Categories have very different scales
Alternatives: Column Chart , Horizontal Bar