How to convert XLS to ODS
- Add your .XLS file - drop it in the box above or click to browse.
- Convert it to .ODS in a few seconds.
- Download your new .ODS file.
What to expect
- VBA macros are dropped when saving to ODS; keep an
.xlsor.xlsmcopy if the macros matter. - Excel-specific functions with no ODS equivalent may be replaced by their last calculated value or show an error.
- LibreOffice Calc produces more complete ODS output than Excel does - prefer it when charts, named ranges, or data validation rules are involved.
Frequently asked questions
Will I lose data converting XLS to ODS?
Plain data, standard formulas, and basic formatting transfer reliably. The main risk is VBA macros (dropped) and Excel-specific functions that may be replaced by static values.
Does LibreOffice Calc open XLS files without converting first?
Yes - LibreOffice Calc reads
.xls natively; you only need to save as .ods when you specifically want that format.Is Excel's ODS export as reliable as LibreOffice's?
No - Excel's ODS support is secondary; charts, named ranges, and data validation rules are handled more accurately by LibreOffice Calc.
Should I switch to ODS or XLSX when leaving the XLS format?
Use ODS if you work mainly in LibreOffice or need a fully open standard; use XLSX if you share files with Excel users, as it has broader third-party support.
Programs that convert XLS: Microsoft Excel · NeoOffice · OpenOffice.org Calc · LibreOffice Calc · Google Sheets
