What is XLSX?

XLSX is the modern XML-based spreadsheet format used by Microsoft Excel for data analysis, calculations, and charting.

What is DOC?

DOC is the legacy binary document format used by Microsoft Word 97-2003. While widely supported, it lacks some modern features found in DOCX.

When Should You Use XLSX vs DOC?

XLSX vs DOC: Key Differences

• •XLSX and DOC diverge on compression: lossy compression for the source, lossy compression for the target.
• •Since both XLSX and DOC use lossy compression, the quality characteristics are comparable — differences in file size come down to how efficiently each format implements compression.
• •Alpha channel support: DOC lacks transparency support.
• •File sizes: XLSX files typically range 50KB to 10MB depending on data and DOC files 50KB to 5MB.
• •Use case fit: XLSX targets spreadsheets, data analysis, calculations and DOC targets legacy documents, older systems — your choice depends on which workflow stage you are serving.

Advantages of XLSX

• ✓At its core, XLSX relies on lossy encoding — a design choice that makes it perfect for Spreadsheets, data analysis, calculations.
• ✓You won't run into compatibility issues with XLSX — it's a universal standard across platforms.
• ✓File size management with XLSX: aggressive compression with minimal visible quality loss.
• ✓Every major application in the Spreadsheets, data analysis, calculations space supports XLSX natively.

Advantages of DOC

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

Common Use Cases for XLSX to DOC Conversion

• Onboarding materials
• Policy and procedure manuals
• Grant applications
• Case studies and whitepapers
• Professional reports and proposals
• Academic papers and theses

Industry Applications

Best Practices for XLSX to DOC Conversion

• →When converting XLSX to DOC, check that tables, images, and embedded fonts transfer correctly — complex layouts may shift between formats
• →Use DOC as your final distribution format if it offers better compatibility, or keep XLSX as an editable master
• →For XLSX to DOC conversions, verify that tracked changes and comments are preserved if needed
• →Embed fonts to ensure consistent rendering across devices and platforms
• →Always keep a backup of your original files before converting
• →Choose the appropriate quality settings for your specific use case

Troubleshooting XLSX to DOC Conversion

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

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