Compare
CSV vs XLS
CSV is plain text for exchanging tabular values, while XLS is an older Excel workbook format. Choose based on whether you need only values or workbook features.
Which format should you choose?
Use CSV to exchange a single table of values between systems. Use XLS when an existing workbook’s formulas, formatting, or multiple sheets matter; check compatibility and consider XLSX for new workbooks.
Good fit for CSV
Tabular-data exchange
- Transferring one simple table between applications
Good fit for XLS
Viewing and editing existing Excel workbooks
- Workbooks that specifically require XLS
Basic information
| Field | CSV | XLS |
|---|---|---|
| Extension | .csv | .xls |
| MIME type | text/csv | application/vnd.ms-excel |
| Common uses | Tabular-data exchange | Viewing and editing existing Excel workbooks |
| How to open | When importing into a spreadsheet, set the character encoding and delimiter. Check that leading zeros, date-like values, and long numbers are not automatically converted. | Open it in a compatible spreadsheet application and check formulas, formatting, charts, and external references. |
| Export or convert | Exporting XLSX to CSV normally writes values from only one selected sheet. Keep formulas, formatting, other sheets, and charts separately. | When converting to XLSX, check formulas, charts, print settings, and macros. |
Choose by use case
Transferring one simple table between applications
Tabular-data exchange
CSVWorkbooks that specifically require XLS
Viewing and editing existing Excel workbooks
XLSKey point 1
CSV does not preserve formulas, formatting, or multiple sheets.
More on the differencesKey point 2
XLS can store worksheets, formulas, and formatting in a legacy binary workbook.
More on the differencesFrequently asked questions
Does CSV preserve Excel formatting?
No. CSV stores delimited text values, not workbook formatting or formulas.