Convert DOCX to DOC Online Free
DOCX is the modern Microsoft Word format and the standard for editable documents. DOC is the older binary Microsoft Word format from Word 97-2003. FileConverter turns your DOCX into DOC online in seconds - free, privacy-first, and with no software to install or account to create.
DOCX to DOC saves a modern Word document back into the legacy 97-2003 format for older systems or templates that still require it.
What changes when you convert DOCX to DOC
Converting DOCX to DOC changes the document format while aiming to preserve your text and core structure. Complex layouts may shift slightly, so review the DOC output before sharing widely.
About the DOCX format
DOCX is an XML-based, editable word-processing format supported by Word, Google Docs, and LibreOffice. It is the go-to choice for documents that need ongoing editing and collaboration. In everyday use, DOCX is chosen for editable letters, essays, and reports and collaborative documents in Word or Google Docs. It opens in Microsoft Word, Google Docs, and LibreOffice Writer.
About the DOC format
DOC is the pre-2007 Word format, still found in older archives and templates. Converting it to modern DOCX or PDF improves compatibility with current software. In everyday use, DOC is chosen for legacy Word documents and templates and archives created before Word 2007. It opens in Microsoft Word, LibreOffice, and Google Docs.
DOCX vs DOC
DOCX is best known for fully editable with rich formatting, while DOC stands out for opens in Word and most office suites. Choosing between them comes down to where the file needs to go next.
Common use cases
People convert DOCX to DOC for jobs such as legacy Word documents and templates and archives created before Word 2007. It is especially common when a DOCX file arrives from one system but needs to work in another that standardises on DOC.
When to convert DOCX to DOC
Reach for DOCX to DOC when your destination expects DOC — for example legacy Word documents and templates and archives created before Word 2007. It is the right move when you receive a DOCX file but the app, website, or person you are working with cannot use it. Bear in mind that outdated binary format, so keep your original DOCX if you might need it again.
How to convert DOCX to DOC
- Open the converter with DOCX to DOC pre-selected using the button below.
- Upload your DOCX file (drag and drop or browse) within the size limit shown on this page.
- Confirm DOC is selected as the target format.
- Start the conversion and download your DOC file the moment it is ready.
Quality tips
Digital-born DOCX files convert most predictably. Scanned pages need OCR before editable text looks perfect, and very complex layouts are worth a quick review in the destination app after converting to DOC.
Platform compatibility
The DOCX to DOC converter works on Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS - anywhere with a modern browser. No plugins or permissions are required to export DOC.
File size limits
Documents up to 200MB
Troubleshooting
- If the file exceeds the limit shown below, compress images, trim video, or split archives before retrying.
- If conversion fails, confirm the extension matches the real format — renaming a file alone does not change its contents.
- Password-protected PDFs must be unlocked before conversion.
- Heavy formatting may shift slightly — allow a minute to tidy headings in Word or a similar app.
Explore more: document Conversion Hub · File format guides · All tools