Frequently asked questions

Q: XLS vs XLSX: Which Excel Workbook Format Should You Use?

XLS is the older binary Excel format; XLSX is the modern Open XML workbook format.

Q: How to Convert XLS to CSV Without Losing Important Data?

CSV stores one flat sheet and does not preserve formulas, formatting, charts, or multiple tabs.

Q: How to Convert XLS to PDF With Readable Page Layouts?

A spreadsheet must be mapped to fixed pages when exported to PDF.

Q: Working With Legacy XLS Files Safely?

Older workbooks may contain macros, external links, or features that modern tools interpret differently.

Q: Preserving Dates and Leading Zeros When Converting XLS?

Spreadsheet display formats can hide the underlying stored value.

Q: XLS to ODS: Moving an Excel Workbook to OpenDocument?

ODS improves interoperability with OpenDocument spreadsheet applications.

Everything you need to know about xls.now — formats, privacy, file limits, and how conversion works. Pick a topic below or browse the in-depth guides.

Converter Q&A by format

Pick a format below to see every common question about converting or compressing it — each topic has its own page with all the answers.

Document conversion questions

36 questions

In-depth guides (6)

XLS vs XLSX: Which Excel Workbook Format Should You Use?

How to Convert XLS to CSV Without Losing Important Data?

How to Convert XLS to PDF With Readable Page Layouts?

Working With Legacy XLS Files Safely?

Preserving Dates and Leading Zeros When Converting XLS?

XLS to ODS: Moving an Excel Workbook to OpenDocument?

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