Documents conversion
Convert XLS to XLSX
XLS is the older spreadsheet format from before 2007, and XLSX is the current one. To convert, open the XLS file in a converter and export it as XLSX, which keeps every cell, formula, and formatting choice intact. Doing this on your own computer means the spreadsheet, and whatever numbers or contacts it holds, never leaves your machine.
All 2,748 conversions verified on macOS, Windows, and Linux against the shipping release, this one included. Every conversion runs entirely on your own computer.
- Extension
- .xls
- Type
- Documents
- Typically
- Old Excel files
- Metadata
- Carries EXIF
- Extension
- .xlsx
- Type
- Documents
- Typically
- Spreadsheets
Convert XLS to XLSX on your own computer. Nothing uploads.
One-time purchase, no subscription. 14 days to change your mind.
How to convert XLS to XLSX
- Open Morphjet and drag in the XLS file you want to convert, or a whole folder of them at once.
- Choose XLSX as the output format.
- Convert. The XLSX file is written next to your original, and nothing leaves your machine.
XLS vs XLSX: what actually changes
| XLS | XLSX | |
|---|---|---|
| File size | Larger, stored as an uncompressed binary file | Smaller, compressed XML packed into a zip container |
| Row and column limit | 65,536 rows, 256 columns | Over 1 million rows, 16,384 columns |
| Opens in current spreadsheet software | Yes, but some apps show a compatibility warning | Yes, it's the native format |
| Opens in spreadsheet software from 2003 or earlier | Yes, native format | No, needs a converter or compatibility pack |
| Keeps formulas and formatting | Yes | Yes, nothing is lost in the conversion |
When to convert, and when not to
Convert XLS to XLSX when you're working with modern spreadsheet software, need the larger row and column limits, or want a smaller file to email or store.
Keep the XLS file if whatever you're sending it to, an old system or a specific workflow, only reads the legacy format.
Why not just use an online converter?
XLS and XLSX files can carry the author's name, company, and a record of who last edited the file, sometimes along with the actual numbers, contacts, or budgets inside the sheet. An online converter receives all of that the moment you upload the file. Converting on your own computer keeps the spreadsheet, and everything in it, off any server you don't control.
Questions
Does converting XLS to XLSX lose any data?
No. The conversion is lossless, so cell values, formulas, and formatting all carry over. XLSX actually supports a few things XLS doesn't, like more rows and columns.
Will an XLSX file open in old spreadsheet software?
Not without help. Spreadsheet software from 2003 and earlier needs a compatibility pack to read XLSX, so if you know the recipient is on an old version, it's worth checking first.
Why convert an old XLS file at all?
XLS is a legacy format with tighter limits, 65,536 rows and 256 columns, and it's gradually being phased out by newer software. Converting to XLSX keeps the file compatible with current tools going forward.
Does the XLSX keep the author and edit history metadata?
Yes, that metadata carries over from the XLS file unless you clear it deliberately.
Can I convert XLS to XLSX without uploading it anywhere?
Yes. A desktop app like Morphjet converts the file locally, so the spreadsheet never travels over the internet, even with wifi off.
Morphjet runs this conversion and 2,747 others, all on your machine. Available now.
One-time purchase, no subscription. 14 days to change your mind.