All ToolsDOC to DOCX

DOC to DOCX

Convert legacy .doc files to modern .docx format. Browser conversion isn't possible for this format — follow the free step-by-step methods below.

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Browser conversion not available for .doc

The legacy .doc binary format requires a full Office engine to parse. Use one of the free methods below — each takes under a minute.

3 Free Ways to Convert

1

Microsoft Word

Best quality

Open the .doc file → File → Save As → change format to .docx → Save.

2

LibreOffice Writer (free)

Free & offline

Open the .doc file in LibreOffice Writer → File → Save a Copy → choose .docx format.

3

Google Docs (free, online)

No install

Go to docs.google.com → Upload the .doc file → it opens automatically → File → Download → Microsoft Word (.docx).

What is DOC to DOCX?

DOC to DOCX upgrades legacy Microsoft Word .doc files (Office 97–2003 binary format) to the modern .docx format (Office Open XML). DOCX files are smaller, more compatible, and supported by all modern apps.

How It Works

The legacy .doc format is a complex binary format (Compound Document File Format) that cannot be decoded in the browser. The steps below explain how to convert .doc to .docx for free using desktop software or free online services.

Key Benefits

  • .docx is smaller in file size than equivalent .doc files
  • DOCX is supported by Word, LibreOffice, Google Docs, and all modern apps
  • Open XML format is more repairable and future-proof
  • Free tools exist to convert without buying Microsoft Office
  • Once converted, use our other tools to export to PDF

Frequently Asked Questions