What is a XLS file?
XLS (Excel 97-2003 Workbook) is the older binary Excel format used before XLSX. It was introduced in 1997 by Microsoft.
What XLS is good at
- Opens in very old Excel versions
- Accepted by legacy accounting systems
- Keeps sheets and formulas
Where XLS falls short
- Limited to 65,536 rows
- Larger and less secure than XLSX
When to use XLS
- Old Excel versions
- Legacy business software
- Systems that require .xls
Where XLS files open
XLS files open in Microsoft Excel (all versions), LibreOffice and Google Sheets.
XLS compared with XLSX
XLS or XLSX? XLS is best for old Excel versions. XLSX is best for budgets and financial models. Convert XLS to XLSX.
Frequently asked questions
What is a XLS file?
XLS (Excel 97-2003 Workbook) is the older binary Excel format used before XLSX. It was introduced in 1997 by Microsoft.
What are the advantages of XLS?
Opens in very old excel versions; accepted by legacy accounting systems; keeps sheets and formulas.
What are the drawbacks of XLS?
Limited to 65,536 rows; larger and less secure than xlsx.
What programs open XLS files?
XLS files open in Microsoft Excel (all versions), LibreOffice and Google Sheets.
How do I convert a XLS file?
Choose the XLS 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.