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What is XLS?

XLS is the legacy binary spreadsheet format used by Microsoft Excel 97-2003, still widely supported by spreadsheet applications.

What is TXT?

TXT (Plain Text) is the simplest text format, containing only unformatted text without any styling, images, or metadata.

When Should You Use XLS vs TXT?

Use XLS When...

Reach for XLS when your priority is legacy spreadsheets, older systems — its efficient compression makes sharing fast and storage minimal.

Use TXT When...

Reach for TXT when your priority is simple text, data exchange — its uncompromising quality ensures every detail is preserved.

XLS vs TXT: Key Differences

  • •XLS uses lossy compression while TXT uses lossless compression — this is the fundamental technical difference between the two formats.
  • •Converting from XLS to TXT changes compression type: lossless source becomes larger but with full quality preservation.
  • •Alpha channel support: TXT lacks transparency support.
  • •File sizes: XLS files typically range 50KB to 5MB and TXT files 1KB to 1MB.
  • •Primary audience: XLS is built for legacy spreadsheets, older systems scenarios, while TXT focuses on simple text, data exchange — pick the format that matches your output requirement.

Advantages of XLS

  • ✓XLS compresses data using lossy methods, keeping file sizes manageable for Legacy spreadsheets, older systems.
  • ✓Industry-wide support means XLS files open anywhere — from legacy systems to the latest devices.
  • ✓Small file sizes make XLS ideal for email, web uploads, and cloud storage.
  • ✓From professional software to open-source alternatives, XLS works out of the box.

Advantages of TXT

  • ✓The lossless nature of TXT means file sizes stay reasonable while handling Simple text, data exchange efficiently.
  • ✓From mobile devices to enterprise servers, TXT is recognized and supported everywhere.
  • ✓The trade-off for TXT's perfection is larger files — but for archival work, it is worth every megabyte.
  • ✓TXT is a first-class citizen in all major software ecosystems, from creative suites to development environments.

Common Use Cases for XLS to TXT Conversion

  • Grant applications
  • Case studies and whitepapers
  • Professional reports and proposals
  • Academic papers and theses
  • Business contracts and agreements
  • Spreadsheets and data analysis

Industry Applications

Real EstateRegulatory ComplianceBusiness AdministrationAcademic PublishingLegal DocumentationOffice Management

Best Practices for XLS to TXT Conversion

  • →Before converting XLS to TXT, review the document structure — multi-column layouts, text boxes, and floating images behave differently across formats
  • →Export a PDF preview alongside the TXT file so you have a reference of how the document should look
  • →Check that hyperlinks and cross-references survived the XLS to TXT conversion — some formats handle links differently
  • →Run a spell check before conversion to avoid propagating errors into the final document
  • →Keep the original editable file in case the conversion introduces layout shifts
  • →Test the output on at least two different applications or devices

Troubleshooting XLS to TXT Conversion

  • !XLS to TXT formatting looks off → complex layouts with tables and columns may shift between formats
  • !Fonts render differently in TXT → embed fonts or use standard web-safe fonts before converting
  • !Images missing from the TXT output → ensure images are embedded in XLS, not linked externally
  • !Tracked changes disappeared after converting XLS to TXT → some document formats don't support revision tracking

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Convert XLS to TXT Online - Free & Fast

Convert XLS files to TXT online for free. High-quality conversion with no registration required.

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About XLS and TXT

XLS

XLS (XLS spreadsheets) - Excel 97-2003 legacy spreadsheet format. Best for legacy spreadsheets, older systems.

TXT

TXT (TXT text files) - Plain text, simple text format. Ideal for simple text, data exchange.

Format Comparison

CompressionLossy → Lossless
TransparencySupported
Use CaseConvert from legacy spreadsheets, older systems to simple text, data exchange
File Size~1KB to 1MB after conversion

FAQs

Is converting XLS to TXT free?

Yes, GoConvertFile offers free conversion of XLS to TXT for files up to 100MB. No registration required.

How long does it take to convert XLS to TXT?

Most XLS to TXT conversions complete within seconds for standard-sized files. Larger files may take longer depending on the conversion complexity.

What is TXT best used for?

TXT is ideal for simple text, data exchange. Plain text, simple text format

Does converting XLS to TXT lose quality?

No, converting XLS to TXT does not cause additional quality loss — TXT uses lossless compression. However, any artifacts already present in the original XLS file will persist in the TXT output.

What file size should I expect after converting XLS to TXT?

TXT files are typically 2-5x larger than equivalent XLS files because TXT preserves all pixel data. This is expected and necessary for lossless quality.

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