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What is the difference between calculated columns and calculated tables in Power Query?

What is the difference between calculated columns and calculated tables in Power Query?




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In Power Query, there is no feature called "calculated tables." However, in Power BI, you have the capability to create calculated columns and calculated tables using DAX (Data Analysis Expressions), which are different concepts.



Calculated Columns:


Calculated columns are created within existing tables in your data model.

They are derived columns that are computed based on expressions or formulas defined using DAX.

Calculated columns are calculated row-by-row and stored in memory as part of the table they belong to.

Calculated columns can reference other columns within the same table to perform calculations.



Calculated Tables:


Calculated tables are new tables generated from existing tables in your data model.

They are created using DAX expressions that define the structure and contents of the new table.

Calculated tables are created using DAX functions such as SUMMARIZE, FILTER, or SELECTCOLUMNS to generate the table structure and define the rows based on specific criteria.

Calculated tables are calculated at query time and are not physically stored in memory like regular tables. 

Instead, they are dynamically generated based on the DAX expressions defined for them.




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