Best Programs to Convert XLS to XLSX
Our team has selected 14 programs designed to convert XLS files into XLSX. If you want the best quality conversion from XLS to XLSX, check out Microsoft Excel, Navicat Premium and FileMaker. After conversion, the new XLSX file can be opened and changed with other software.
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What is file format conversion?
File format conversion is the process of changing a file from one format to another to ensure compatibility with software, systems, or devices, while keeping the structural content of the file intact.
Converting the file format is necessary when the original XLS format is not supported by the software or device you want to use. This capability allows users to make use of XLS files in various formats, ensuring compatibility and facilitating seamless information sharing between platforms.
For file format conversion, dedicated programs or online tools are designed to meet this need. These tools come with a simple interface that helps users choose the input XLS file, set the XLSX format, and begin conversion.
How to convert the XLS file to XLSX?
Once you have the converter installed on your computer, you can start converting the XLS file to XLSX format. File conversion usually follows a simple process of a similar nature. When it comes to changing the XLS file format, make sure you follow these steps:
- Identify the exact location of the XLS file you want to convert on your computer;
- Open Microsoft Excel or any other application designed for file conversion;
- Import the XLS file to the conversion software;
- Select XLSX format as the desired output option;
- Determine the destination on your drive where you want to store the converted XLSX file;
- After confirming the conversion, wait for the process to complete.
After the conversion is complete, you will be able to locate the converted XLSX file in the location designated from step 5.
About the formats
| Extension | XLS |
|---|---|
| File Type | Excel Spreadsheet |
| Category | Spreadsheet Files and Data Files |
| Developed by | Microsoft |
| Format | Binary |
| MIME types | application/excel, application/msexcell, application/vnd.ms-excel, application/x-dos_ms_excel, application/x-excel, application/x-msexcel, application/xls |
| HEX code | - |
| ASCII code | - |
| Extension | XLSX |
|---|---|
| File Type | Microsoft Excel Open XML Spreadsheet |
| Category | Spreadsheet Files and Data Files |
| Developed by | Microsoft |
| Format | Zip |
| MIME types | application/vnd.openxmlformats-officedocument.spreadsheetml.sheet |
| HEX code | 50 4B 03 04 |
| ASCII code | PK |
Finding answers to XLS file problems
If you’re having trouble opening XLS files, we can suggest a variety of commonly used solutions:
- Start by requesting a new transmission of the original XLS file, as there is a possibility that it was damaged during the transfer;
- It may be worth trying to download a different variant of the file from the Internet that matches your platform requirements;
- Oftentimes, you can find the file you need in XLSX format already converted and uploaded on the internet.