How to convert XLS to CSV
- Add your .XLS file - drop it in the box above or click to browse.
- Convert it to .CSV in a few seconds.
- Download your new .CSV file.
What to expect
- Only one sheet exports per conversion - a workbook with multiple sheets needs a separate export for each tab.
- Formulas are replaced by their last calculated values; the original formula is not recoverable from the
.csv. - Date cells may export as serial numbers (e.g.,
44927) instead of readable dates - pre-format them as a date string in Excel before saving.
Frequently asked questions
Does converting XLS to CSV lose data?
Formatting, charts, and extra sheets are not included. Cell values are preserved, but formulas are replaced by the values they last calculated.
Why do my date columns show numbers like 44927 after export?
XLS stores dates as integers counting from January 1, 1900. Pre-format the column as a date string in Excel before saving as CSV to avoid this.
Can I convert all sheets at once?
Not with standard desktop apps - each sheet must be exported separately. A Python script using pandas can read all sheets and write one
.csv per sheet in one pass.Should I convert XLS to XLSX first, then to CSV?
No - Excel, LibreOffice, and Google Sheets all read
.xls and export .csv directly, so the extra step adds no benefit.Programs that convert XLS: Microsoft Excel · Ability Spreadsheet · docXConverter · PlanMaker · Corel Quattro Pro · Microsoft Excel for Mac · iWork Numbers · NeoOffice
