Convert RTF to DOCX Online Free
RTF is a lightweight formatted-text format readable across many word processors. DOCX is the modern Microsoft Word format and the standard for editable documents. FileConverter turns your RTF into DOCX online in seconds - free, privacy-first, and with no software to install or account to create.
RTF to DOCX brings a portable rich-text file into modern Word with full editing and formatting support.
What changes when you convert RTF to DOCX
Converting RTF to DOCX changes the document format while aiming to preserve your text and core structure. Complex layouts may shift slightly, so review the DOCX output before sharing widely.
About the RTF format
RTF supports basic formatting such as bold, italics, and fonts while staying more portable than DOCX. It bridges older and newer word processors when a plain TXT file loses too much structure. In everyday use, RTF is chosen for cross-application formatted text and legacy word-processing workflows. It opens in Word, WordPad, LibreOffice, and TextEdit.
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.
RTF vs DOCX
RTF is best known for keeps basic formatting while staying portable, while DOCX stands out for fully editable with rich formatting. Choosing between them comes down to where the file needs to go next.
Common use cases
People convert RTF to DOCX for jobs such as editable letters, essays, and reports and collaborative documents in Word or Google Docs. It is especially common when a RTF file arrives from one system but needs to work in another that standardises on DOCX.
When to convert RTF to DOCX
Reach for RTF to DOCX when your destination expects DOCX — for example editable letters, essays, and reports and collaborative documents in Word or Google Docs. It is the right move when you receive a RTF file but the app, website, or person you are working with cannot use it. Bear in mind that layout can vary slightly between apps, so keep your original RTF if you might need it again.
How to convert RTF to DOCX
- Open the converter with RTF to DOCX pre-selected using the button below.
- Upload your RTF file (drag and drop or browse) within the size limit shown on this page.
- Confirm DOCX is selected as the target format.
- Start the conversion and download your DOCX file the moment it is ready.
Quality tips
Digital-born RTF 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 DOCX.
Platform compatibility
The RTF to DOCX converter works on Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS - anywhere with a modern browser. No plugins or permissions are required to export DOCX.
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