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ACROBAT | 7-MINUTE READ
XLSX file: How to open, view, or edit.
No Excel? No problem. Learn how to open, view, or edit XLSX files.
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Microsoft Excel is one of the most versatile tools in the Microsoft Office Suite. If you work with Excel often, chances are you’ve encountered an XLSX file — a staple in data management. Learn how to create, open, and edit XLSX files.
Millions of users rely on Excel to manage personal finances, track project progress at work, and manage their kids’ sports schedules in a single view.
Introduced in 2007 as a replacement for the old XLS file format, XLSX files are one of the most widely used file types in the world. Still, they aren’t the best choice for all situations, especially if you don’t have a Microsoft license or use a Mac computer. Read on to learn what XLSX files are, how to open and edit them, and their pros and cons.
What is XLSX?
Microsoft introduced the .XLSX file extension in 2007 as part of the Microsoft Office suite upgrade. XL refers to Excel, S means spreadsheet, and X means the file follows the XML format. This format replaced the older .XLS extension and became the default for Excel spreadsheets.
As an Open XML Format Spreadsheet, the XLSX file structure provides enhanced features like reduced file size, better data recovery, and improved compatibility across different systems. Not only does the new format improve data storage but also works better with OpenOffice Calc and Apple Numbers.
XLSX files have many uses, but they’re commonly used to store data and perform calculations. Organize and store important data and convert a file to a professional-looking graphic in just a click. Excel’s calculation features save users a lot of time thanks to its built-in formulas and custom scripts.
Still, XLSX files aren’t right for all applications. While XLSX files are great for storing and analyzing data, PDFs are better for sharing and archiving. PDFs preserve the format and integrity of your spreadsheet, ensuring that recipients see the file exactly as you intended, no matter what device or software they use. Use the free Excel to PDF converter from Adobe Acrobat to maintain your XLSX spreadsheet’s formatting in a secure, shareable file.
Other file types similar to XLSX.
The .XLSX file extension is one of the most popular formats in the world, but it isn’t the only way to manage data. Other file types similar to XLSX include:
- .XLS: Introduced by Microsoft in 1987 alongside the first version of Excel, the .XLS file format was the default for Excel spreadsheets until 2007. Unlike XLSX, the .XLS format uses a binary structure, which results in larger file sizes and limited compatibility with modern programs. Still, older Excel versions and legacy systems use .XLS files.
- .DAT: DAT files can hold text, binary, or both. These files are versatile and are often used to store configuration settings, temporary data, or additional program-specific information. They’re commonly used in software development, gaming, and database management.
- .DOCX: DOCX is Excel’s word-processing counterpart. It supports text, images, tables, and formatting styles, making it ideal for creating reports, proposals, and contracts to complement your XLSX file.
- .HTML: The HyperText Markup Language (HTML) file format is the backbone of most web pages. It structures text, images, and multimedia elements for online display. It’s mostly used for building websites and formatting email templates.
- .CSV: Short for comma-separated values, this plain text file is great for saving storage space and easily transferring data. A CSV file stores data in a tabular format. Each row represents a record and each column is separated by a comma.
Excel files are the go-to for formatting data or creating tables. However, the above file formats might be more appropriate depending on your use case. Whether you’re working with spreadsheets like XLSX, text-based files like DOCX, or web formats like HTML, Acrobat streamlines the process of converting, editing, and sharing files across multiple platforms. Quickly convert multiple file formats to PDF with our no-hassle PDF converter tool.
How to create, open, or edit a XLSX file.
The easiest way to open an .XLSX file is with Microsoft Excel. Just make sure you’re using version 2007 or higher — otherwise, you won’t be able to open the file. However, you may need a few simple workarounds if you don’t use Microsoft or if you use a less-compatible device.
Creating an XLSX file.
To create an XLSX file in Microsoft Excel:
- Open Excel and choose the option to create a new spreadsheet.
- Add your data to the cells and format the spreadsheet as desired.
- Click File > Save As.
- Choose a location to save the file and double-check that you’ve selected the .XLSX file format.
- Click Save.
If you don’t have Microsoft Excel, Google Sheets is a free and easy alternative for creating XLSX files:
- Log into your Google Drive account.
- Click New > Google Sheets.
- Input your data.
To save the sheet as an XLSX file, click File > Download > Microsoft Excel (.xlsx).
Opening an XLSX file.
To open an XLSX file that’s saved to your device, double-click the file. If you already have a compatible version of Excel installed on your device, the file will open automatically. If you double-click the file and it doesn’t open, right-click on the file and select the Open With option, then choose Microsoft Excel. Alternatively, you can open Excel and drag the .XLSX file into the spreadsheet.
If you don’t have Excel, upload the file to Google Sheets. Once the file opens, you can edit it directly or save it in the XLSX format.
Editing an XLSX file.
Open Microsoft Excel to update cell values, add new rows or columns, or apply formulas. Try Excel’s formatting tools to change fonts, colors, or cell alignment. Once you’ve edited the spreadsheet to your liking, click File > Save to overwrite the file, or use File > Save As to save it as a new version of an existing file.
You can also edit an XLSX file in Google Sheets. Upload the file to Google Drive, select Open With > Google Sheets, edit the spreadsheet, and download it as an XLSX file. Apple Numbers is also a popular alternative to making edits and exporting the final version as an XLSX to ensure compatibility.
If you’ve already converted an Excel file to a PDF and need to make changes, use the Acrobat PDF to Excel converter to quickly adjust the data as an XLSX file in just a few clicks.
Pros and cons of .XLSX files.
XLSX files are helpful in many situations but not for all uses. Weigh the pros and cons of this file type to choose the best option for your next project.
While XLSX files have their strengths, combining them with Acrobat can help you overcome their weaknesses. Convert XLSX files to universally accessible PDFs for easier sharing. PDFs are also easier to password-protect and safeguard from unauthorized changes. Added benefits include their time-saving annotation and collaboration features.
Secure XLSX files with Acrobat.
Excel is a popular program for personal and business users, helping the world make sense of data faster than ever before. XLSX file formats are packed with plenty of helpful features, but their size, compatibility concerns, and speed issues can get in the way.
Whether you’re looking to transform a detailed sales spreadsheet into a polished, client-ready presentation or create a user-friendly table of instructions for your team, Acrobat has you covered. With the free Convert Excel to PDF tool, you can easily convert your Excel files into professional-quality PDFs that are secure, shareable, and maintain their formatting.
The Acrobat suite of tools offers seamless solutions for all your document management needs, making your workflow smoother and more productive in handling spreadsheets, presentations, or instructional guides.
Frequently asked questions.
Can I open an XLSX file on my phone?
Absolutely. The easiest way to open an XLSX file on your phone is to download the mobile app for Microsoft Excel or Google Sheets. Both have an Android and iOS app for on-the-go spreadsheet reviews.
What is the difference between Excel and XLSX?
Excel is a software program for managing spreadsheets. XLSX is the file format created by Excel when you save a spreadsheet to your device.
Is an XLSX file a text file?
No. XLSX is an XML-based file format designed for spreadsheets. While its underlying structure includes text-based XML, the file itself is encoded to handle complex data like formulas, numbers, and formatting.
Can I open an XLSX file without Microsoft Excel?
Yes, but you need a third-party tool to do it. Try Microsoft Excel alternatives like Google Sheets or Apple Numbers to open, view, or edit XLSX files. However, keep in mind that there are compatibility concerns with third-party tools, so some formatting might not render correctly. If formatting is a concern, convert the XLSX file to a PDF before sharing it with your team.
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XLSX file: How to open, view, or edit.
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An XLSX interface with the theme function highlighted. The sheet's data is also being used to create both a line and a circle graph.
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