Compare
ODT vs RTF
ODT is an editable document package based on the OpenDocument standard and can include text, tables, images, and styles. RTF exchanges basic character and paragraph formatting as text.
Which format should you choose?
Consider ODT when exchanging editable documents between OpenDocument-capable apps and retaining tables or styles matters. Consider RTF for simpler formatted documents shared across word processors. For a fixed appearance, review a PDF export.
Good fit for ODT
Creating editable documents
- Document exchange in OpenDocument-compatible environments
Good fit for RTF
Exchanging simply formatted documents
- Basic text decoration across supported applications
Basic information
| Field | ODT | RTF |
|---|---|---|
| Extension | .odt | .rtf |
| MIME type | application/vnd.oasis.opendocument.text | application/rtf |
| Common uses | Creating editable documents | Exchanging simply formatted documents |
| How to open | Open it in an ODT-compatible word processor. For collaboration or submission, check recipient support and the display of fonts, tables, images, and comments. | Open it in an RTF-compatible editor. Before sharing, check fonts, tables, images, and page breaks. |
| Export or convert | For a fixed-layout copy to share or print, export to PDF and check the output. PDF export does not guarantee that the file cannot be edited. When converting to DOCX, check headings, tables, images, page breaks, and comments in the destination application. | For continued editing, save as DOCX or ODT. For a final viewing copy, consider exporting to PDF. |
Choose by use case
Document exchange in OpenDocument-compatible environments
Creating editable documents
ODTBasic text decoration across supported applications
Exchanging simply formatted documents
RTFKey point 1
ODT is an XML-based package defined by ODF and can contain document text, styles, tables, and images.
More on the differencesKey point 2
RTF describes basic character and paragraph formatting in text and has a simpler feature set.
More on the differencesMore on the differences
Advanced formatting may not render identically across apps. Check page breaks, fonts, tables, and images in the recipient's environment.
- ODT is designed for editable office documents with structured package parts.
- RTF is useful for simpler formatted-text exchange but may not preserve complex layouts or richer editing features.
Frequently asked questions
Is ODT always more compatible than RTF?
No. Compatibility depends on the apps and features used. Test the recipient's software, especially for complex formatting.