Convert XLS to TSV Online
XLS files are the legacy binary Excel spreadsheet format. Converting to TSV gives you data interchange, scientific data.
How to convert XLS to TSV
- Upload your XLS file. Drag it onto the box above or click to browse. Files up to 200 MB are accepted.
- Choose TSV as the output. The target format is pre-selected on this page — just press “Convert now”.
- Download the result. Conversion runs on our own server and the download starts as soon as it is ready. Your files are deleted automatically.
Why convert XLS to TSV?
XLS is the legacy binary Excel spreadsheet format. TSV is a tab-delimited table format common in bioinformatics and data tools. That difference is exactly why converting between them is so common: TSV is the better choice for data interchange, scientific data.
XLS vs TSV: key differences
| XLS | TSV | |
|---|---|---|
| File type | legacy | tabular |
| Typical use | legacy spreadsheets | data interchange, scientific data |
| Compatibility | Superseded by XLSX. | Simple and robust for text data. |
Tips for a clean XLS to TSV conversion
- Superseded by XLSX.
- Use the highest-quality source XLS you have — converting a compressed file again cannot restore lost detail.
- If you only need a smaller file, try a lower resolution or bitrate instead of a different format.
- Keep the original XLS until you have checked the converted TSV opens the way you expect.
Frequently asked questions
How do I convert XLS to TSV?
Upload your XLS file to the converter on this page, make sure TSV is selected as the output format and click “Convert now”. When the conversion finishes the download starts automatically.
Is this XLS to TSV converter free?
Yes — it is completely free and needs no account. Files up to 200 MB are accepted, and heavy use is rate-limited so the service stays available for everyone.
Will converting XLS to TSV reduce quality?
Because both formats preserve the original data, converting back and forth does not degrade quality.
What is a XLS file?
XLS is the legacy binary Excel spreadsheet format. Its technical name is Microsoft Excel 97-2003 and it is typically used for legacy spreadsheets.
What is a TSV file?
TSV is a tab-delimited table format common in bioinformatics and data tools. Its technical name is Tab-Separated Values and it is typically used for data interchange, scientific data.
Can I convert XLS to TSV on my phone?
Yes. The converter runs in the browser on Android, iOS, Windows, macOS and Linux — no app installation is required.
Are my files kept on the server?
No. Uploaded files and converted results are deleted automatically a short time after the conversion finishes.