gretl

Overview

gretl is a desktop econometrics package for analysts, students, and researchers who want dedicated regression and time-series methods on Linux, macOS, or Windows. Its specialist toolkit and scripting make it a capable no-cost option, but users seeking the broadest statistical-method coverage should consider GNU R instead.

Key features

Its estimator range runs from least squares and maximum likelihood to GMM, system methods, and regularized least squares such as LASSO, Ridge, and elastic net. That breadth suits applied econometric work, including models that benefit from regularization, without making the package a general substitute for every statistical environment.

Time-series analysis includes ARIMA, GARCH-type models, VARs and VECMs, unit-root and cointegration tests, and the Kalman filter. For panel data and limited dependent variables, gretl supports instrumental-variable and probit models, as well as dynamic panel models based on GMM. Statistical tests and Bayesian analysis are supported too.

The integrated hansl scripting language supports repeatable analysis, and models can be output as LaTeX tables or equations. Import covers XML, CSV, Excel, Gnumeric, OpenDocument, Stata, SPSS, EViews, JMulTi, RATS 4, PC-Give, and gretl's own formats. Data and results can also be exchanged with GNU R, GNU Octave, Python, Julia, Ox, and Stata; MPI parallelization is supported. LIBSVM-based machine learning and mixed-frequency time-series analysis via MIDAS add further options, though the package's overall method coverage remains less comprehensive than GNU R's.

Pricing

gretl costs nothing. The free, open-source software may be redistributed and modified under the GNU General Public License, so there is no paid tier to weigh against a capped free edition. It is a strong fit when a zero-cost econometrics tool is the requirement; there is no free trial because the software itself is free.

Platforms

gretl is desktop software for Linux, macOS, and Windows. The macOS download page offers a version for macOS 10.9 or higher, with separate Apple Silicon packages for macOS 11 or higher and Intel Mac packages. This broad desktop coverage is useful for mixed-platform teams, but it does not offer a browser-based option.

Who it's for

Choose gretl if your work centers on econometrics—particularly regression, time series, or panel data—and you value scriptable analyses, extensive import formats, and exchange with other analytical tools. It is less suited to someone whose priority is the widest possible range of statistical methods, since the maker describes its coverage as narrower than GNU R's.

Pros and cons

• Pros: Its dedicated estimator and time-series range covers many standard econometric tasks, from GMM and regularized regression to cointegration testing and the Kalman filter.
• Pros: hansl scripting, LaTeX model output, broad data imports, and exchange with six named analytical environments support reproducible work and integration into existing workflows.
• Pros: The GPL license permits redistribution and modification, and the software runs on all three major desktop operating systems.
• Cons: Its method coverage is explicitly less comprehensive than GNU R's, which matters for users who need a broader statistical toolkit.
• Cons: It is desktop-only, so browser access is not an option.

Alternatives

Statistical Analysis Software is the broader category to explore when you want to compare tools beyond econometrics.

• jamovi is a better fit for browser-based access and point-and-click analyses powered by R; its free Guest plan includes the full module library.
• JASP is another free desktop option for Linux, macOS, and Windows, provided your system is 64-bit and has at least 4 GB of RAM and 4 GB of free disk space.
• EViews is an alternative for macOS or Windows users considering an academic single-user license at $700 a month, which requires current academic affiliation.
• PAST may suit users who want spreadsheet-style data entry alongside univariate and multivariate statistics and graphical analysis.
• StatsDirect is another free option, with no license fees or restrictions on uses.
• LatentGOLD is an alternative to consider if you need its model-specific approach.
• BlueSky Statistics is another free-forever comprehensive statistics and data science application for macOS and Windows.
• Stata is another option for Linux, macOS, and Windows users comparing statistical software.

Verdict

For econometricians, students, and researchers who need substantial regression and time-series methods without a license cost, gretl is a practical choice. Its specialist breadth, scripting, and open-source license are compelling; look elsewhere if you need more comprehensive statistical coverage or browser-based access.