How to convert DOC to DOCX
- Add your .DOC file - drop it in the box above or click to browse.
- Convert it to .DOCX in a few seconds.
- Download your new .DOCX file.
What to expect
- VBA macros survive the conversion, but Word will prompt you to save as
.docm(macro-enabled format) instead of plain.docxif the file contains them. - Old-style Word fields and complex binary-format layouts may render slightly differently in LibreOffice or Google Docs - do a final visual check if precise layout matters.
- File size typically drops after conversion because
.docxcompresses its XML content inside a ZIP archive.
Frequently asked questions
Can I convert DOC to DOCX without Microsoft Office?
Yes - LibreOffice Writer (free, open-source) and Google Docs (free, web) both handle the conversion well for most documents.
Does converting keep tracked changes and comments?
Yes, both formats support revision markup and the conversion carries tracked changes and comments over intact.
Why does Word show "Compatibility Mode" when I open a .doc file?
Compatibility Mode limits newer features to stay compatible with the older format. Once you save as
.docx, it clears and all Word features become available.Can I convert back from DOCX to DOC?
Yes - use File > Save As in any of the same programs and choose
Word 97-2003 (.doc), though there is rarely a reason to do so.Programs that convert DOC: Microsoft Word · AbiWord · Atlantis Word Processor · IBM Lotus Symphony · iStonSoft ePub Converter · TextMaker · Microsoft Publisher · Ability Write
