What is a CSV file?
CSV (Comma-Separated Values) is a plain-text table where each row is a line and cells are separated by commas. It was introduced in 1972 by IBM and later RFC 4180.
What CSV is good at
- Opens in any program
- Tiny and simple
- The standard for importing and exporting data
Where CSV falls short
- No formatting, formulas or multiple sheets
- Encoding problems with special characters
When to use CSV
- Importing data into databases and apps
- Exporting reports
- Sharing raw tables
Where CSV files open
CSV files open in Excel, Google Sheets, databases, Python, R and every text editor.
CSV compared with XLSX
CSV or XLSX? CSV is best for importing data into databases and apps. XLSX is best for budgets and financial models. Convert CSV to XLSX or convert XLSX to CSV.
Frequently asked questions
What is a CSV file?
CSV (Comma-Separated Values) is a plain-text table where each row is a line and cells are separated by commas. It was introduced in 1972 by IBM and later RFC 4180.
What are the advantages of CSV?
Opens in any program; tiny and simple; the standard for importing and exporting data.
What are the drawbacks of CSV?
No formatting, formulas or multiple sheets; encoding problems with special characters.
What programs open CSV files?
CSV files open in Excel, Google Sheets, databases, Python, R and every text editor.
How do I convert a CSV file?
Choose the CSV converter you need from the list on this page, drop in your file and press Convert. You get your new file in seconds, free and without sign-up.