Compare
ODS vs XLSX
ODS is the OpenDocument spreadsheet format, while XLSX is based on Office Open XML. Both support editable workbooks, but feature behavior and rendering can vary across spreadsheet applications and versions.
Which format should you choose?
Choose the format supported by collaborators and organizational requirements. When converting, test formulas, styles, charts, data validation, and print settings in the software that will be used.
Good fit for ODS
Editable spreadsheet exchange
- OpenDocument-compatible collaboration
Good fit for XLSX
Spreadsheet workbooks
- Formulas, formatting, and multiple sheets
Basic information
| Field | ODS | XLSX |
|---|---|---|
| Extension | .ods | .xlsx |
| MIME type | application/vnd.oasis.opendocument.spreadsheet | application/vnd.openxmlformats-officedocument.spreadsheetml.sheet |
| Common uses | Editable spreadsheet exchange | Spreadsheet workbooks |
| How to open | Open it in an ODS-compatible spreadsheet application and check formulas, charts, and print settings. | Open it in a compatible spreadsheet application. Check formulas, displayed values, and formatting in the recipient's environment. |
| Export or convert | When converting to XLSX, check functions, formatting, charts, and data validation. | 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
OpenDocument-compatible collaboration
Editable spreadsheet exchange
ODSFormulas, formatting, and multiple sheets
Spreadsheet workbooks
XLSXKey point 1
ODS is designed for OpenDocument-compatible spreadsheet workflows.
More on the differencesKey point 2
XLSX is commonly used in Excel-centered editing and collaboration.
More on the differencesMore on the differences
Keep the original workbook before conversion. Test representative sheets in the target application, recalculate formulas, check charts and named ranges, and review printing and exported values before sharing.
- ODS and XLSX use different document standards.
- Application support for functions and advanced workbook features varies.
- A file opening successfully does not guarantee identical calculations or appearance.
Frequently asked questions
Will an ODS workbook always convert perfectly to XLSX?
No. Verify formulas, charts, formatting, validation, and print output in the receiving software.