Compare
CSV vs XLSX
CSV exchanges plain table values. XLSX is a spreadsheet file that can retain formulas, formatting, and multiple sheets.
Which format should you choose?
Use CSV to exchange one table of values between systems; use XLSX when the recipient needs editing, formulas, or layout.
Good fit for CSV
Tabular-data exchange
- Transferring one simple table between applications
Good fit for XLSX
Spreadsheet workbooks
- Formulas, formatting, and multiple sheets
Basic information
| Field | CSV | XLSX |
|---|---|---|
| Extension | .csv | .xlsx |
| MIME type | text/csv | application/vnd.openxmlformats-officedocument.spreadsheetml.sheet |
| Common uses | Tabular-data exchange | Spreadsheet 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. Check formulas, displayed values, and formatting in the recipient's environment. |
| Export or convert | Exporting XLSX to CSV normally writes values from only one selected sheet. Keep formulas, formatting, other sheets, and charts separately. | For simple exchange, export to CSV. Usually only values from one selected sheet are written, so keep formulas, formatting, other sheets, and charts separately. |
Choose by use case
Transferring one simple table between applications
Tabular-data exchange
CSVFormulas, formatting, and multiple sheets
Spreadsheet workbooks
XLSXKey point 1
CSV does not retain formulas, charts, formatting, or multiple sheets.
More on the differencesKey point 2
XLSX can retain spreadsheet features, subject to app compatibility.
More on the differencesMore on the differences
Before CSV export, select the intended sheet and encoding. On import, check delimiter, dates, and identifiers with leading zeros.
- CSV is simple but interpretation depends on import settings.
- XLSX carries richer workbook structure.
- Compatible spreadsheet apps may render or calculate XLSX differently.
Frequently asked questions
Will CSV keep my formulas and all sheets?
No. CSV exports values from a selected table or sheet; retain XLSX for the full workbook.