CSV File Type
- The quick factsWhat are CSV files and how to open them
Are you having problems opening a CSV file or just wondering what they contain? We explain what these files are used for and show you software that we know can open or otherwise handle your files.
What is a CSV file?
CSV stands for Comma Separated Values. Files that contain the .csv file extension are comma delimited files that contain separated database fields. These database fields have been exported into a format that contains a single line for each database record. The record is then divided and each field of the record that has been exported into a single line is separated by a comma.
Files with the .csv extension are very similar to plain text files. CSV files are commonly used to transfer data from one database or spreadsheet format to another. This allows individuals who do not run the same database applications to share database files between one another.
How to open CSV files
Important: Different programs may use files with the CSV file extension for different purposes, so unless you are sure which format your CSV file is, you may need to try a few different programs.
While we have not verified the apps ourselves yet, our users have suggested 10 different CSV openers which you will find listed below.
Last updated: December 15, 2021
Suggest another file format using extension CSV
While we know of one file format using the .CSV file extension, there may be more. It is widespread that different programs use files with the same file extension for very different types of data. Please let us know if you are aware of a different kind of .CSV file.
Various apps that use files with this extension
These apps are known to open certain types of CSV files. Remember, different programs may use CSV files for different purposes, so you may need to try out a few of them to be able to open your specific file.
 | Microsoft Office | User submitted |
 | OpenOffice.org Calc | User submitted |
 | Kingsoft Office | User submitted |
 | LibreOffice | User submitted |
 | Microsoft Excel | User submitted |
 | LibreOffice Calc | User submitted |
 | Hancom Office Hancell | User submitted |
 | WPS Office | User submitted |
 | Microsoft Web Platform Extensions | User submitted |
 | StarOffice Calc | User submitted |
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