Matrix visual (new version) - How to show multiple row fields side-by-side instead of nested?

[Owais1984]

Hi everyone,
I’m using the new Matrix visual in Power BI (2024/2025 release) and I’m stuck with a layout problem.

I have several descriptive fields (for example: group, ID, description, hierarchy level, etc.) that I want to show as separate columns next to each other, just like a table layout.

But when I put these fields into Rows, the Matrix automatically nests them in a hierarchy with expand/collapse (+/–) icons.
In the old Matrix, I could turn off Stepped Layout to flatten the row fields, but in the new Matrix visual, the Stepped Layout option no longer exists.

In the new Matrix visual, how can I display multiple row-level fields side-by-side (flat), instead of nested in a row hierarchy?
Is there a new setting or is the only option to restructure the field buckets (Rows vs Columns)?Or is the new Matrix simply not capable of flat multi-field row layouts?

Thanks

[v-pnaroju-msft · Accepted solution]

Thankyou, @PhilipTreacy for your response.

Hi Owais1984,

We appreciate your inquiry submitted through the Microsoft Fabric Community Forum.

Based on my understanding, the new Matrix visual provides Layout and Style presets in the Format pane. The default Compact layout renders row fields in a nested (indented) manner, which is why multiple row fields appear hierarchical rather than flat. To display each row field in its own column (flat layout), switch to the Outline or Tabular layout.

Please follow the steps below which may help resolve the issue:

1. Select the Matrix visual → Open Format → Layout and style presets → Set Layout to Outline (flat columns) or Tabular (flat columns with tighter spacing).
2. Open Format → Layout and style presets → Turn on Repeat row headers for improved readability.
3. Open Format → Set Row subtotals to Off for a perfectly flat grid.
4. Open Format → Row headers → Hide expand/collapse (+/–) if you do not want nested options.

Additionally, as suggested by @PhilipTreacy, if you require a pure grid without any hierarchy features, consider using the Table visual, where fields become columns and there is no nesting or drill functionality.

Please refer to the links below for further information:
Create a Matrix Visual in Power BI - Power BI | Microsoft Learn
Matrix visual format settings - Power BI | Microsoft Learn

We hope the information provided helps to resolve the issue. Should you have any further queries, please feel free to contact the Microsoft Fabric community.

Thank you.

[Owais1984]

Thank you all for your quick response. Very helpful

[Shubham_rai955 · Accepted solution]

In the new Power BI Matrix visual (2024/2025 release), to show multiple row fields side-by-side (flat) instead of nested as a hierarchy, you need to use the new layout options because the old "Stepped Layout" option is removed.

How to Show Multiple Row Fields Side-by-Side (Flat) in New Matrix Visual

1. Select your Matrix visual on the report canvas.

2. Go to the Format pane (paintbrush icon).

3. Look for the Layout and style presets section.

4. Under Layout, select Tabular instead of Compact or Outline.

   • Compact = nested/hierarchical layout with indentation (like old stepped layout).

   • Outline = each hierarchy level in a separate column with indent.

   • Tabular = flat layout showing multiple row fields side-by-side without nesting.

5. This will display each row field as a separate column in a flat table style, similar to a regular table.

6. Optionally, adjust other settings like turning off subtotals or toggling row subtotals at bottom as needed.

The new matrix no longer has a direct "Stepped Layout" toggle, but the equivalent is switching the Layout from Compact (default with nesting) to Tabular for flat, side-by-side rows.

This way you get a clean table-like view with multiple fields side by side in rows, rather than nested hierarchies.​

[v-pnaroju-msft · Accepted solution]

Thankyou, @PhilipTreacy for your response.

Hi Owais1984,

We appreciate your inquiry submitted through the Microsoft Fabric Community Forum.

Based on my understanding, the new Matrix visual provides Layout and Style presets in the Format pane. The default Compact layout renders row fields in a nested (indented) manner, which is why multiple row fields appear hierarchical rather than flat. To display each row field in its own column (flat layout), switch to the Outline or Tabular layout.

Please follow the steps below which may help resolve the issue:

1. Select the Matrix visual → Open Format → Layout and style presets → Set Layout to Outline (flat columns) or Tabular (flat columns with tighter spacing).
2. Open Format → Layout and style presets → Turn on Repeat row headers for improved readability.
3. Open Format → Set Row subtotals to Off for a perfectly flat grid.
4. Open Format → Row headers → Hide expand/collapse (+/–) if you do not want nested options.

Additionally, as suggested by @PhilipTreacy, if you require a pure grid without any hierarchy features, consider using the Table visual, where fields become columns and there is no nesting or drill functionality.

Please refer to the links below for further information:
Create a Matrix Visual in Power BI - Power BI | Microsoft Learn
Matrix visual format settings - Power BI | Microsoft Learn

We hope the information provided helps to resolve the issue. Should you have any further queries, please feel free to contact the Microsoft Fabric community.

Thank you.

[PhilipTreacy]

@Owais1984 

AFAIK the new matrix doesn't flatten multiple row fields, they are always nested.

A table visual isn't sufficient?

Phil