Compare
DOC vs DOCX
DOC is an older binary Word format. DOCX is the current Word document format based on Office Open XML.
Which format should you choose?
Keep DOC when working with existing files or required legacy software; normally choose DOCX for new documents and collaboration.
Good fit for DOC
Viewing and editing existing Word documents
- Legacy documents supplied as DOC
Good fit for DOCX
Creating editable documents
- Reports and drafts revised collaboratively
Basic information
| Field | DOC | DOCX |
|---|---|---|
| Extension | .doc | .docx |
| MIME type | application/msword | application/vnd.openxmlformats-officedocument.wordprocessingml.document |
| Common uses | Viewing and editing existing Word documents | Creating editable documents |
| How to open | Open it in Word or compatible software and check layout, fonts, tables, images, and comments. | Open it in Microsoft Word or a DOCX-compatible word processor. For important documents, check fonts, figures, comments, and page breaks in the recipient's environment. |
| Export or convert | Convert to DOCX for continued editing or export PDF for distribution. Check page breaks, fonts, links, and images after conversion. | For final distribution, export to PDF. Before and after export, check font substitution, page breaks, links, and image resolution, and retain the editable DOCX separately. |
Choose by use case
Legacy documents supplied as DOC
Viewing and editing existing Word documents
DOCReports and drafts revised collaboratively
Creating editable documents
DOCXKey point 1
DOC uses an older binary file structure.
More on the differencesKey point 2
DOCX is an Office Open XML package.
More on the differencesMore on the differences
After conversion, inspect formatting and layout, especially tables, images, page breaks, and comments, in the recipient's application.
- DOC may be needed for legacy compatibility.
- DOCX is better suited to current document workflows.
- Conversion can alter document appearance or features.
Frequently asked questions
Can I rename .doc to .docx?
No. Open and save or convert the document with a compatible application, then inspect the result.