File Format Guide
What is a .XLSX file?
The XLSX format (short for Microsoft Excel Open XML Spreadsheet) is a spreadsheet format that uses lossless compression, so every detail is preserved exactly with no loss of quality. Its text and formatting remain fully editable after you open it. XLSX is an open, royalty-free standard.
.XLSX at a glance
| Category | Document |
|---|---|
| Type | Spreadsheet |
| Compression | Lossless |
| Open standard | Yes |
| Opens in web browsers | No |
| Typical file size | Small |
How to open a .XLSX file
You can open XLSX files with Excel, Google Sheets, and LibreOffice Calc. If a program on your device cannot read one, the quickest fix is to convert it to a more common format — no software install required.
XLSX pros and cons
Strengths
- live formulas, multiple sheets, and charts
- cell formatting and data validation
- the standard for spreadsheets
Limitations
- requires spreadsheet software
- not a plain-text data exchange format
What .XLSX files are used for
- financial models and reports
- data analysis
- multi-sheet workbooks
Need to convert a .XLSX file?
Convert XLSX to and from other formats free in your browser — no signup to start, no watermarks.
Open the XLSX Converter