Quick Navigation
MINIFS Function
Summary
The MINIFS function finds the smallest numeric value in a range that meets multiple specified criteria. It's perfect for conditional minimum calculations across complex datasets without needing array formulas or helper columns.
Syntax
MINIFS(min_range, criteria_range1, criteria1, [criteria_range2, criteria2], ...)Parameters
| Parameter | Type | Required | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| min_range | Range |
Yes | The range of cells containing the values to evaluate for minimum |
| criteria_range1 | Range |
Yes | First range to evaluate against criteria1 |
| criteria1 | Any |
Yes | Condition to test against criteria_range1 |
| criteria_range2 | Range |
No | Second criteria range (optional) |
| criteria2 | Any |
No | Second criterion (optional) |
Using the MINIFS Function
MINIFS excels at finding minimum values under multiple conditions. Use it for sales analysis, performance metrics, inventory tracking, or any scenario requiring the lowest value matching specific filters. Pair it with MAXIFS for complete conditional range analysis.
Common MINIFS Examples
Find minimum grade for specific weight category
=MINIFS(A2:A7,B2:B7,1)Returns 88 - finds lowest grade (88) among students weighing category 1. Matches cells B2, B6, B7.
Minimum weight for grade 'a' (non-aligned ranges)
=MINIFS(A2:A5,B3:B6,"a")Returns 10 - criteria range offset from min_range but same size/shape. Matches positions 1,2,4.
Multiple criteria: Business class above level 100
=MINIFS(A2:A7,B2:B7,"b",D2:D7,">100")Returns 13 - requires grade='b' AND level>100. Only row 5 matches both.
Empty criteria treated as zero
=MINIFS(A2:A7,B2:B7,"b",D2:D7,A8)Returns 1 - empty A8=0, finds grade='b' AND level=0 (rows 5,7).
Frequently Asked Questions
Common Errors and Solutions
#VALUE!
Cause: min_range and criteria_ranges have different sizes/shapes
Solution: Ensure all ranges have identical dimensions
Unexpected minimum value
Cause: Empty criteria treated as 0, or no matches found
Solution: Verify criteria logic and data ranges
#VALUE! with text criteria
Cause: criteria_range contains mixed data types
Solution: Ensure consistent data types in criteria ranges
Notes
- Criteria syntax same as SUMIFS, COUNTIFS, AVERAGEIFS
- Case-insensitive text matching
- Blank cells in criteria_range ignored unless criteria=""""
- Up to 127 criteria pairs maximum
Compatibility
Available in: Excel 2019, Excel 2021, Microsoft 365, Excel for Mac 2019+, Excel for Web
Not available in: Excel 2016 and earlier, Excel 2013, Excel 2010, Excel 2007, Excel 2003
Content last reviewed: December 9, 2025
Update frequency: As needed
Excel versions tested: Excel 2019+, Microsoft 365