R vs SAS/STAT

R is a free software environment for statistical computing, with graphics, statistical tests, regression models, and scripting support. It runs on Windows and macOS, as well as a wide range of UNIX platforms. Its import options cover text, XML, spreadsheet-like files, Excel, SPSS, SAS, and Stata, along with databases, binary files, and image files. Downloads are provided through preferred CRAN mirrors, and the project offers FAQs about installation and licensing. Documentation resources include manuals, journals, books, and certification links; community resources include mailing lists and developer pages. Questions about the software are directed to the Getting Help section. The listed current release is R 4.6.1, named Happy Hop, released June 24, 2026; version 4.5.3 is described as a wrap-up release. R was founded in 1990, and its maker is listed as R, headquartered in Vienna, Austria.

SAS/STAT is statistical analysis software for specialized and enterprise-wide analytics. Its library includes more than 90 procedures for methods such as regression, survey and survival analysis, multiple imputation and Bayesian modeling. Other documented areas include ANOVA, categorical, cluster, multivariate and nonparametric analysis, as well as propensity scores and causal treatment-effect estimation. Methods are available for small data sets, missing values and large data tasks. SAS describes 14 SAS/STAT procedures as multithreaded and makes 12 SAS High-Performance Statistics procedures available for single-machine use. Predictive modeling options include regression, generalized additive, mixed and nonlinear models, and decision trees. Hundreds of statistical graphs and customizable graphics are included. SAS says the software runs on major computing platforms, accesses nearly any data source and integrates into computing environments. A free trial provides access to SAS Viya in a private trial environment. Pricing is available on request. SAS lists SAS/STAT on the SAS Viya platform and SAS/STAT 15.4 among its most recent releases.