Free online ORG to OPML converter

ORG and OPML are both structured file formats, but they serve different purposes. ORG files are commonly used by Emacs Org mode to store notes, tasks, outlines, and documents in a plain-text, highly flexible format. OPML files are XML-based outline files designed for exchanging hierarchical lists, often used by RSS readers, note apps, and outlining tools.

What is an org file

An ORG file is a plain-text document used by Emacs Org mode. It supports headings, lists, tables, links, code blocks, scheduling, and task management. Because it is human-readable, it is easy to edit in any text editor, but it is especially powerful inside Emacs.

What is an opml file

An OPML file is an Outline Processor Markup Language document. It stores outlines in XML format and is commonly used for importing and exporting nested lists between applications. OPML is widely supported by feed readers, mind-mapping tools, and outlining software.

How to convert org to opml

To convert ORG to OPML, you need to transform Org mode headings and subheadings into OPML outline nodes. The conversion usually preserves the hierarchy of the document, while ignoring or simplifying formatting that OPML does not support directly.

If your Org file contains only headings and nested lists, the conversion is straightforward. If it includes tables, code blocks, or advanced Org features, those elements may need to be omitted or converted into plain outline items.

Best software for conversion

The best choice for this conversion is Emacs with Org mode, especially when combined with export tools or custom scripts. For users who want a more automated workflow, a Python script using an Org parser can convert headings into OPML reliably.

Useful options include:

• Emacs Org mode for manual preparation and export workflows
• Python with libraries such as orgparse or custom XML generation
• Pandoc for intermediate conversions, if your workflow requires multiple formats

How to do it in emacs

In Emacs, open the Org file and inspect the outline structure. If you use a custom export command or script, the workflow may look like File → Export → Custom format. Since OPML is not a standard built-in Org export target in many setups, a script or package is often needed to generate the final OPML file.

How to do it with a converter

Online converters for ORG to OPML are uncommon, so desktop tools or scripts are usually more dependable. A good converter should preserve heading levels, titles, and nested structure, and it should output valid XML with the proper OPML root and outline elements.

Conversion tips

• Keep headings clean so they map well to OPML outline titles.
• Remove unsupported formatting such as complex tables or embedded code if needed.
• Check nesting levels to ensure the outline hierarchy is correct.
• Validate the output to confirm the OPML file is well-formed XML.

Summary

ORG to OPML conversion is mainly about preserving outline structure while translating Org mode content into XML-based outline format. For the most reliable results, use Emacs Org mode with a script or a dedicated parser, especially when the source file contains complex content.