Use a spreadsheet when you are still exploring.
It works when you are still stumbling onto categories and trying to get a rough feel for what is out there. If you are still deciding between shoes, jackets, or bags, the broad view can help.
Comparison
When a spreadsheet still helps, and when a cleaner category index is simply better
Neither format is perfect. The spreadsheet is fine when you are still figuring things out. It becomes less helpful once you know exactly what you want.
Use a category index when you already know what you want.
Once you are past discovery, grouped browsing usually feels better. You stop opening irrelevant listings and start making tighter comparisons. That is where the giant sheet starts to lose its appeal.
Ready to browse the cleaner way?
Start with the main CNFans index, then narrow down into a category. That is usually the cleaner move once you know what you are looking for.