Convert XLS to XLSX Quickly: A Complete Guide

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Nowadays it is crucial to convert files in Excel into the XLSX format rather than the older XLS format. The file format XLSX was released with the Microsoft Excel in 2007, and since then the new format enjoys greater compatibility and performance with additional enhanced features than the old format. It will also discuss the several methods of how to convert XLS to XLSX with ease, depending on the user’s preferences. Let’s get started!

What Are XLS and XLSX Files?

However, I must first explain the two formats before jumping to conversion between them. A file format refers to the characteristics of a container file which defines how the software will interpret and use the data inside the container.

  • XLS: XLS format was first developed with earlier versions of the Microsoft Excel software and stores data in binary format. It does not support many features and compatibility features that are seen in the new versions of Excel.
  • XLSX: XLSX introduced in Excel 2007 has a more modern feature which uses an XML structure meaning that it has better data and file integrity and compatibility.

There are several advantages of converting XLS to XLSX, they include; security, size, and functional differences. Now let’s check the simplest possibilities of how to convert XLS to XLSX.

Method 1: Convert XLS to XLSX Using Microsoft Excel

Microsoft Excel is the most direct tool to convert XLS to XLSX. Here’s how to do it:

  1. Open the XLS File in Excel:

Start Microsoft Excel and then go to the XLS file that you wished to be converted.

  1. Save As XLSX:

Go to File > Save As.

Under the choices within the File type drop-down list, click on Excel Workbook (*.xlsx).

Select the desired folder and click the button Save.

This method does not remove any of your data or formatting but converts your file to the XLSX format.

Method 2: Use Online Conversion Tools

In case you don’t have Microsoft Excel, there are numerous online converters that can be used to easily convert XLS to XLSX for free. Popular platforms include:

  • Online2PDF
  • Zamzar
  • Convertio

Follow these steps to use an online converter:

  1. Upload the XLS File:

Take a browser and navigate to the converter’s site, where you need to upload your XLS file.

  1. Select Output Format:

Select XLSX as the wanted type of output.

  1. Download the Converted File:

After the conversion to XLSX format download the resultant XLSX file.

It allows using a variety of tools but usually has file size restrictions, so it is crucial to work with trustworthy platforms to save the data.

Method 3: Convert XLS to XLSX Using Google Sheets

Google Sheets is another great tool to use for batch converting XLS files into the excel-open XLSX format if you need to work together online.

  1. Upload the XLS File:

Go to Google Sheets and open your XLS file by choosing “File” on the menu bar and then “Open” then “Upload”.

  1. Convert to Google Sheets Format:

When uploaded, Google Sheets will change its format for that of the uploaded file, and it accepts the type XLSX.

  1. Download as XLSX:

Save as type: Microsoft Excel (.xlsx) or better still for automation, record the following macro:

This method is preferable if you are already in a cloud environment, and if edits require prior conversion.

Advantages of Converting XLS to XLSX

  1. Improved Compatibility:

It is preferable to open XLSX files with the latest versions of Excel and Google Sheets or any other spreadsheet application.

  1. Smaller File Size:

XLSX files are normally less in size when compared to XLS which plays a big role in storage and sharing of files.

  1. Enhanced Security:

In its entirety the XLSX format is safer than the XLS and besides it offers the possibility of encryption therefore it can be used where sensitive data resides.

  1. Greater Functionality:

XLSX files contain extra utilities like table, formatting options and calculations not found in older version XLS files.

Troubleshooting Common Issues in XLS to XLSX Conversion

While most conversion processes from XLS to XLSX are easy, you can run into some problems. Here’s how to troubleshoot them:

  1. Formatting Errors:

Occasionally, they give rise to trivial problems of style and presentation. When using XLSX to XLS converter, check the final output hired after conversion to see if all the data appears correctly.

  1. Formula Issues:

Perhaps not all formulas used in a file with an extension XLS may be processed optimally in the converted XLTM file. Be sure to double check formulas converted to another language and to re-write those which were calculated incorrectly.

  1. File Corruption:

If you find that files were corrupted, try using some other way to convert them or make sure you are using more recent software.

Conclusion: Choose the Best Method for You

Converting XLS to XLSX improves compatibility problems, decreases file sizes and allows the use of the new improved Excel options. As for the choices of instruments, whether working with Microsoft Excel, online tools, Google Sheets or desktop applications has its peculiarities and corresponds to certain individuals’ needs. As always, if your input contains lots of valuable information, then better stick to such desktop applications or use other known websites for conversion.

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