How to convert xls to xlsm file

April 10, 2025

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Microsoft Excel Spreadsheets, .xls files, can easily be exported as Microsoft Excel Macro-Enabled Spreadsheets, .xlsm files.

Simply open your .xls spreadsheets, and using the function 'File - Save as...' export your standard spreadsheet to a macro-enabled spreadsheet (.xlsm). This is available in Microsoft Office versions 2007, and newer.

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Understanding XLS and XLSM file formats

The XLS file format is a spreadsheet format created by Microsoft Excel, primarily used for storing data in tabular form. It is part of the Microsoft Office suite and is widely used for various data management tasks. However, XLS files do not support macros, which are automated sequences of actions that can be used to perform repetitive tasks.

On the other hand, the XLSM file format is an extension of the XLS format that supports macros. This format is also used by Microsoft Excel and allows users to create and run macros, making it ideal for automating complex tasks within spreadsheets.

How to convert XLS to XLSM

Converting an XLS file to an XLSM file involves enabling macro support in the spreadsheet. This can be done using Microsoft Excel, which is the most reliable software for this conversion.

Steps to convert using Microsoft Excel

Open the XLS file in Microsoft Excel.
Go to the File menu and select Save As.
In the Save as type dropdown menu, choose Excel Macro-Enabled Workbook (*.xlsm).
Click Save to complete the conversion.

Best software for XLS to XLSM conversion

The best software for converting XLS to XLSM is Microsoft Excel itself. It ensures that all data and formatting are preserved during the conversion process. Additionally, it allows you to create and manage macros within the same environment.

For users who do not have access to Microsoft Excel, online converters such as Zamzar or Convertio can be used, but they may not support complex macros or advanced Excel features.

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XLS vs XLSM: format comparison

How the XLS and XLSM formats compare on the properties that matter most for this conversion.

Comparison of the XLS and XLSM file formats
Property	.XLS Microsoft Excel Spreadsheet	.XLSM Microsoft Excel Macro-Enabled Workbook
Editable text	No	Limited
Fixed page layout	No	No
Text formatting	Extensive	Extensive
Images	Limited	Yes
Interactive elements	Yes	Yes
Password protection	Basic	Basic
Opens in a web browser	Partial	Partial
Typical file size	Medium	Medium
Open standard	No	Partly open
Best used for	Data exchange	Editing and post-production
Introduced	1987	2007
Developer	Microsoft	Microsoft
MIME type	application/vnd.ms-excel	application/vnd.ms-excel.sheet.macroEnabled.12

Open XLS file Open XLSM file

Suggested software and links: xls to xlsm converters

Ability Spreadsheet

A fully featured spreadsheet program from Ability Office software suite

Apache OpenOffice Calc

Spreadsheet program from OpenOffice.org productivity suite

Excel Mobile

Mobile version of Microsoft Excel, previously known as Pocket Excel

LibreOffice Calc

Full-featured spreadsheet tool from LibreOffice suite

Microsoft Excel

A popular spreadsheet application distributed with Microsoft Office suite or Microsoft 365 subscription.

PlanMaker

A handy spreadsheet editor from SoftMaker Office suite

WordPerfect Office

A spreadsheet software application formerly known as Corel Quattro Pro

This record was last reviewed some time ago, so certain details or software may no longer be accurate.
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