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About this conversion
Easily convert your XLSM files to the older XLS format with Convert2.co's powerful online tool. XLSM files, which contain macros, can sometimes be incompatible with older software or systems that don't support them. Our XLSM to XLS converter ensures seamless compatibility, allowing you to share and open your spreadsheets without issues. Whether you need to simplify your data for broader accessibility, prepare files for legacy systems, or ensure maximum compatibility with various spreadsheet applications, our free service is designed for speed and accuracy. Experience a straightforward conversion process to get your XLS files ready in minutes. Perfect for anyone needing to work with macro-free spreadsheets.
📋 How to Convert XLSM to XLS
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XLSM
XLSM is a file format for Microsoft Excel spreadsheets that supports macros. Introduced with Excel 2007, it's essentially an XML-based format (hence the 'X' prefix) with the addition of macro code, typically written in VBA (Visual Basic for Applications). This allows for automation of tasks within the spreadsheet. XLSM files are zip-compressed archives containing various XML documents and other resources. They are crucial for dynamic data analysis and complex workflow automation within Excel.
XLS
XLS is the legacy file format for Microsoft Excel spreadsheets, used from Excel 1.0 up to Excel 2003. It uses a proprietary binary format to store workbook data, including worksheets, charts, and formulas. While older and less flexible than modern XML-based formats like XLSX or XLSM, XLS remains widely compatible with almost all spreadsheet applications, especially older versions of Excel and other office suites.
Why Convert XLSM → XLS?
You might need to convert XLSM to XLS primarily for compatibility reasons. If you are working with older versions of Microsoft Excel or other spreadsheet software that does not support the XLSM format, an XLSM file will likely not open correctly or may lose its functionality. Converting to XLS ensures that your spreadsheet data, formulas, and formatting are accessible and usable across a broader range of applications and operating systems. This is crucial for sharing documents with colleagues or clients who may not have the latest software, or for archiving data in a universally readable format.
XLSM vs XLS
The fundamental difference between XLSM and XLS lies in their support for macros. XLSM files are macro-enabled, meaning they can contain VBA code to automate tasks, making them powerful for complex workflows. XLS, on the other hand, is a legacy format that does not support macros. While XLSM offers greater functionality for automation, XLS provides superior backward compatibility with older software. If you need to ensure your spreadsheet can be opened and used by virtually any spreadsheet program, especially older ones, converting from XLSM to XLS is necessary. However, you will lose any macro functionality in the process.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
How do I convert XLSM to XLS?
To convert your XLSM file to XLS, simply visit Convert2.co, navigate to our XLSM to XLS converter, upload your XLSM file using the drag-and-drop area or by clicking 'Upload File', and our tool will automatically process the conversion. Once complete, you can download your new XLS file.
Is the XLSM to XLS conversion free?
Yes, Convert2.co offers a completely free service for converting XLSM files to XLS. You can convert as many files as you need without any hidden charges or limitations.
What is the quality of XLS output?
Our XLSM to XLS converter is designed to maintain the highest possible quality. While macros will be removed (as XLS format does not support them), your data, formatting, formulas, and charts will be accurately preserved in the resulting XLS file.
Can I convert multiple XLSM files at once?
Currently, our XLSM to XLS converter processes one file at a time to ensure optimal performance and accuracy for each conversion. You can upload and convert subsequent files immediately after the previous one is finished.