Using Tabular Editor with Power BI
Advanced data modeling with external tooling.
Tabular Editor is an external tool that provides advanced modeling capabilities not available in Power BI Desktop.
What is Tabular Editor?
A third-party tool for editing Power BI and Analysis Services models: - Direct model manipulation - Scripting support - Best practice analyzer - Bulk operations
Versions
Tabular Editor 2 (Free) Open-source, full functionality: - Model editing - Scripting - Best practice rules
Tabular Editor 3 (Paid) Enhanced experience: - DAX editor with IntelliSense - Diagram view - Data preview - Debugging
Key Capabilities
Calculation Groups Create time intelligence patterns: - Apply to any measure - Reduce measure count - Consistent calculations
Perspectives Simplified model views: - Hide complexity - Role-based views - Easier navigation
Bulk Operations Edit multiple objects: - Rename with patterns - Apply formatting - Update properties
Scripts Automate changes: - C# scripting - Reusable operations - CI/CD integration
Best Practice Analyzer
Built-in rules check: - Naming conventions - Relationship best practices - DAX patterns - Performance issues
Integration with Power BI
XMLA Endpoint Connect to published datasets: - Premium required - Read/write access - Direct editing
Local Model Connect to pbix file: - Edit during development - Save back to model - Desktop integration
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Tabular Editor free or paid?
Both versions exist. Tabular Editor 2 is free and open-source with full modeling capabilities. Tabular Editor 3 is a paid commercial product with enhanced features like DAX IntelliSense and visual diagrams.
Can Tabular Editor connect to published datasets?
Yes, via XMLA endpoints which require Power BI Premium. You can edit published semantic models directly without downloading. Changes take effect immediately after saving.