XLS to CSV Converter
Convert Excel spreadsheets (XLS/XLSX) to CSV format instantly. Free online converter with high quality output, data preservation, and batch processing.
Drag & drop files here, or browse
Supports XLS, XLSX files up to 50MB for reliable conversion
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Why Convert XLS to CSV?
Universal Compatibility
CSV format works with all data analysis tools, databases, and programming languages. Convert XLS to CSV for maximum compatibility across all platforms and systems.
Data Analysis
CSV format is ideal for data analysis, machine learning, and statistical processing. Perfect for importing into R, Python, SQL databases, and other analytical tools.
Simple Structure
CSV files have a simple, text-based structure that's easy to read and process. No complex formatting or formulas, just pure data in a standardized format.
Smaller File Size
CSV files are typically much smaller than Excel files. Perfect for sharing large datasets via email, cloud storage, and data transfer systems.
How to Convert XLS to CSV
- Select "XLS" as source format and "CSV" as target format
- Upload your XLS/XLSX file(s) by dragging and dropping or clicking to browse
- Click "Convert to CSV" to start the conversion process
- Download your converted CSV file(s) when ready
Supported File Formats
XLS vs CSV: Format Comparison
XLS/XLSX Advantages
- • Supports formulas and calculations
- • Multiple worksheets in one file
- • Rich formatting (colors, fonts, borders)
- • Charts, graphs, and visual elements
- • Data validation and protection
- • Comments and notes
CSV Advantages
- • Universal compatibility with all data tools
- • Simple, human-readable format
- • Smaller file sizes
- • Easy to parse and process programmatically
- • No dependency on Excel software
- • Perfect for data exchange and analysis
When to Convert XLS to CSV
✅ Convert When:
- • Importing data into databases or data warehouses
- • Analyzing data with statistical software (R, Python, SPSS)
- • Sharing data with users who don't have Excel
- • Creating data feeds for web applications
- • Backing up data in a simple, universal format
- • Preparing data for machine learning algorithms
🤔 Keep as XLS When:
- • Using formulas and calculations
- • Need multiple worksheets in one file
- • Using charts, graphs, or visual elements
- • Need formatting for presentation purposes
- • Using data validation or protection features
- • Collaborating with others who use Excel
Data Conversion Considerations
⚠️ What Gets Lost
- • Formulas (only calculated values are preserved)
- • Formatting (colors, fonts, borders)
- • Charts, graphs, and visual elements
- • Multiple worksheets (only active sheet)
- • Comments and notes
- • Data validation rules
✅ What's Preserved
- • All text and numeric data
- • Calculated values from formulas
- • Basic data structure and organization
- • Column headers and row labels
- • Date and time values
- • Special characters and encoding
CSV Format Specifications
Standard CSV Format
- • Encoding: UTF-8 for international character support
- • Separator: Comma (,) between columns
- • Quote Character: Double quotes (") for text fields
- • Line Endings: Unix-style (LF) for cross-platform compatibility
- • Header Row: First row contains column names
- • Data Types: Text, numbers, dates in standard formats