How to change file types on Windows

Sometimes, you may find it necessary to change the file type or extension on your computer.Whether it's to ensure compatibility with different software or simply to modify how a file appears to users, there are several ways to change a file's type or extension in Windows.

Here, we'll show you three simple ways to change file types on your Windows 10 or 11 computer.

1. Rename file extension to change file type

The easiest way to change a file type in Windows is to rename it.However, this approach also has some limitations.For example, if you change the .txt file extension to .jpg, the file is not converted to an image and its content remains text.However, you can easily convert JPEG files to JPG files using this method.

To use the Rename option to change file types, make sure Windows is configured to display file extensions.Then, follow these steps:

Now, your file type will be changed.

2. Use the "Save As" option to change the file type

As mentioned before, using the "Rename" option to change file types in Windows does not always work.If you want to convert the file type without making the file unusable, you can use the "Save As" option.

Most modern programs, such as Microsoft Word, Photoshop, Canva, etc., support multiple file saving formats, making converting files very convenient.In this way, you can correctly complete complex conversions such as DOCX to PDF or PNG to JPG.

1. Open the file in a program that supports both the source and destination formats.For example, if you want to convert a DOCX file to PDF, you need to open it in Microsoft Word.

2. Go to the "File">"Save As" option.

3. Click the drop-down menu next to "Save as type" and select your preferred format from the list.

4. Select the preferred location to save the file and click the Save button.

3. Change the file type using an online file conversion tool

If you find the above method inconvenient for some reason, you can also use an online file converter service to quickly change file types on your Windows computer.There are several excellent online file converters such as Online-Convert,Zamzar etc., can help you convert almost any document, image, audio or video in a few simple steps.

Another benefit is that with some of these tools, you can easily batch convert files.All you have to do is upload your file, choose your preferred format, and download the converted file.

While these online file conversion services offer convenience, it's important to be careful as not all of them are reliable.To be on the safe side, be sure to review the website's privacy policy before proceeding, especially when dealing with files that may contain sensitive information.

Easily change file types on Windows

Now you know a few different ways to change file types on Windows, both online and offline.They're all fast, free, and easy to learn, so you can use the one that's most convenient for you.