When working with documents, spreadsheets, or presentations, choosing the right file format is important for compatibility and ease of collaboration. The two most common formats are Office Open XML (used by Microsoft Office) and OpenDocument (used by OpenOffice and other free office suites). Below, we explain their differences and help you decide which one suits your needs best.
💡 New Office 2024
Get Office 2024 with a one-time payment and lifetime access—no subscriptions required.
What are these formats?
Office Open XML (DOCX, XLSX, PPTX) – This is the default format for Microsoft Office. It offers the best compatibility within the Microsoft Office ecosystem and retains advanced formatting and features.
OpenDocument (ODT, ODS, ODP) – This is an open-source format used by OpenOffice, LibreOffice, and other free office suites. It ensures broader accessibility across different software but may not support all Microsoft Office features perfectly.
Which format should you choose?
Choose Office Open XML if:
✔ You primarily use Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
✔ You want full support for formatting, macros, and advanced features.
✔ You collaborate with others who also use Microsoft Office.
✔ You need to ensure compatibility with businesses, schools, and organizations that rely on Microsoft Office.
Choose OpenDocument if:
✔ You use OpenOffice, LibreOffice, or another open-source office suite.
✔ You want a free and open format that works across multiple platforms.
✔ You share documents with people who don’t have Microsoft Office.
✔ You prioritize long-term access and open standards for your files.