Category: FAQs

Converting files is a blessing since there are tons of different file formats existing today. A file conversion software is a tool to convert existing files into a different format. There is plenty of software available on the market, but not all are reliable, safe, and effective.

However, the right conversion software will greatly benefit you and your business. Why is it so important to find the right file conversion software? Here are a few benefits and reasons why you should use file conversion software.

A User-Friendly Tool

A file conversion software typically has a layout that many beginners can understand. The placement of tools and buttons makes it easy to navigate the software to convert files. You can also visit websites that can convert any file type in only a few seconds.

Most conversion software comes with an easy-to-follow guide to look around the workspace. You can find many PDF, sound, movie, and text file conversion software available on the market. One great example of easy-to-use software is our PDF file conversion software at Offdrive.

Keep the High-Quality File

A great file conversion software allows you to keep the same or better quality when converting. You can also use the software to adjust the quality to suit your needs. Owning the best software benefits any formal presentations needed.

You can make the files stay in high-quality standards with the software’s tools. Conserving quality is especially essential for sound and movie file conversion software. Some software may lower quality due to compressing the file for more space.

Provides Multiple Features

One of the reasons why you should rely on reliable file conversion software is the tools. There are many features available for making adjustments and editing. Simple features like drag and drop, scheduled conversion, and auto-save benefit your experience.

File conversion apps can also convert files in batches, saving plenty of time. These features benefit your editing, formatting, time, and money with conversion software. For example, a movie file conversion software has effects and transition libraries.

Compatible With Different Devices

How does a file conversion software further your user-experience and accessibility? The ability to convert using any device, from laptops and pcs to phones and tablets. Imagine working a text file, PDF, movie, and sound file conversion software on several devices.

Most software features the ability to transfer conversions with a smooth flow. It’s also a plus to have the ability to link your conversions to different devices. Compatibility is essential for your need to convert files in groups for projects.

Cost-Efficient Solution

Investing in the best file conversion software will save you both your money and time. You can find both editing and converting tools needed with good software. There would be no need to find a separate app to convert and edit your files.

You also wouldn’t need to hire professional services to help you process your files. A file conversion software would have simple instructions for beginners. You can save a lot by doing the work yourself with editing, converting, and compressing files.

Convenient and Simple to Use

Convenience is an important factor to consider, especially if you are converting for your business. Most file conversion software is an all-in-one app with many management tools. It’s a huge benefit purchasing only one software for multiple tools and features.

Accelerate Work Speed

Most software offers automated conversions, which saves time for many businesses. It benefits companies who have a set workflow with limited time. Owning a company file conversion software increases productivity and services.

Downloading plenty of tools can get confusing and take plenty of time to edit and convert. A file conversion software will be enough to create standardized and searchable converted files. You are less likely to run into issues when you rely on great file conversion software.

Greater Reliability and Security

If your business relies on frequent file conversions, your employees may download their own software. They may end up downloading an unknown and untrustworthy file conversion software. Your important documents may end up getting compromised.

There’s also the chance of getting downtime, server time-outs, and incomplete conversions. Conversion apps typically remove uploaded files after conversion for better privacy. With the right software, you won’t have to worry about security issues and cybercrime.

Shows Professionalism

A free file conversion software is great, but some are not designed for business use. Free converters usually leave a watermark on the converted file. It’s not a great way to establish a professional identity with clients.

Online file converters also have some drawbacks with limited ability to convert groups of files. Investing some cash in reliable converters will give you full access to the tools. Having a dedicated business converter increase professionalism and high-volume conversions.

Customizable and Flexible

Professional file conversion software will give you control over your output settings. You can change the production and file conversions of your documents, audio, movies, and PDFs. The customization gives more options to adapt to your needs, workflow, and storage.

You can pick low-quality images to high-quality versions, depending on your needs. File conversion software can provide for certain needs, like converting wide-format text documents. The flexibility of file conversion software takes all user’s needs into account for custom needs.

Consistent Conversions

File conversion software is your all-in-one tool that can replace many programs. Using dedicated software, you are more likely to make consistent conversions. It also makes it easier to teach your employees how to use the software.

The converted files will always stay in the same format and layout for consistency. You will get file outputted at a similar size to benefit your storage space needs.

Convert With Ease Using a Reliable File Conversion Software

Now that you know why you need file conversion software, are you looking for one now? We offer conversions for archives, images, spreadsheets, and documents. Test out our free online file conversion for your work reports to school projects.

Do you want to learn how to convert a spreadsheet into a different file? Do you want to learn what other file types you can convert your spreadsheet into? 

Spreadsheets are important tools in business and other fields. It’s a tool for account and calculation, budgeting, data exporting, generating reports, and more. Spreadsheets are quite useful that it’s impossible to imagine a world without them.

However, it’s different to imagine a world where spreadsheets can become more than XLSX files. In this guide, we’ll talk about how to convert your XLSX to PDF files, online documents, and more. 

Save XLSX to PDF on Excel

Let’s begin with converting a file ending with XLSX to PDF. This process is simple, and you won’t need any other tools except Microsoft Excel to finish the task. Step one is to open the workbook that you want to save as a PDF through Excel.

Next, click on the File tab at the upper-left corner of the top ribbon menu. Select the Save As button and then wait for the Save As window to pop up. Under the type of file you want the spreadsheet saved into, change it from Excel Workbook to PDF.

Don’t forget to rename the file as you like before you click Save. You can also select the folder where you want the spreadsheet to appear as a PDF file. When saving PDF files, you can also select and set certain options for the output file before you click save.

Benefits of Converting Spreadsheets to PDF

If you’re handling files with sensitive information, you want to make sure that only a few people can edit them. When you convert a file to PDF, you can select the “Restrict Editing” option in the dialog box. This will prevent the saved PDF file from getting changed without your permission.

You can also keep your file from getting viewed by people you don’t allow by adding password protection on it. The spreadsheet-turned-PDF file will not open unless the user enters the correct password. It’s a great way to keep unwanted eyes from viewing your data.

Also, PDF files can contain the same data but have a smaller file size. They’re the ideal format if you want to learn how to email a spreadsheet without going over the file size limit. PDFs are also ideal if you want to post the spreadsheet online onto your company website or other.

Converting an XLSX Online via Google Docs

If you need to upload your spreadsheet online anyway, you can use this procedure instead. Open your browser and go to Google Docs by typing it in the search bar and selecting the link. You can also head straight to Google Docs by entering the link “docs.google.com” to the search bar.

Before you continue, make sure you’re logged into your Google account. Next, look for and click on the File picker. This is the small folder icon under the templates area, next to the file sorter and view mode.

Select “Upload” and then click on the button to select a file from your device. If you have your File Explorer open, you can also drag the spreadsheet file into the upload area right away. Wait for your XLSX or XLS file to open online on the Google Docs Sheet Editor.

Now, open the File tab, which is on the top menu bar, and select Download  > PDF document (.pdf). Your file will get converted to a PDF file and downloaded to your local device on automatic.

Now, you have a local PDF file and an uploaded spreadsheet on Google Docs.

Using Preview to Convert Your Spreadsheet

If you are a Mac user, you can use the built-in app Preview to convert XLS or XLSX files to a PDF file. You can also convert them into other common file types, like TXT, Images, and more. The first step is to open the Excel spreadsheet with Preview.

You can do this by right-clicking on the file before opening it and selecting Open With > Preview. Select the Preview App. Once it opens with Preview, open the File menu and choose “Export as PDF.”

A new pop-up dialog box will show you the different options you can use. Change the file extension to .pdf and then select the destination folder. Click on Save, and you can now use the PDF-converted spreadsheet as you like.

Converting to XLS or XLSX to PDF With Offdrive

Let’s say you don’t have Excel or Preview installed on your computer. You also forgot your Google log-in details and access your Google Drive. A quick and easy way to convert your files is to use an online tool like Offdrive.

You only need to visit the Offdrive main page through your browser. From there, you can start converting PDF to XLSX, vice versa, and more. The process of converting files using our free online file conversion service is simple.

All you need is to select the type of conversion you’re looking for. For example, you want to convert an older Excel XLS file to PDF. Select the “XLS to PDF” option on our list.

When you get redirected to the conversion page, click on “Browse” to upload your file. Verify that you are human by taking and passing the captcha test. After you verify the test, you can click on the green Convert button. 

Convert Your Excel Files Today

There are many other ways to convert your files from XLSX to PDF for free. These are only the top, quickest, and easiest ways to do them.

Are you looking for easy ways to convert your excel files? Check out our free conversion tools to convert your files to other file types today!

When you are taking photos with a professional digital camera, you are going to have to deal with RAW files, unless you change the default format. And for some, this can be a problem. 

However, it doesn’t have to be. RAW files are of the greatest quality, because they store all of the image data, allowing users to adjust the variable how they like.

In this article, we will cover these files in more depth. As well as teach you how to convert them for whatever needs you have. 

Whenever you’re ready to take your photo editing journey to the next level, keep reading.

What Are RAW Files?

There are many types of RAW files. The most common is the.RAW extension for a Photoshop file, used in certain scenarios like image data transfers between applications. This format describes the color information of pixel-by-pixel text in binary form.

It has nothing to do with RAW image formats that are created on digital cameras. Digital camera RAW image files provide the greatest quality because all of the camera sensor data is saved in an uncompressed and unprocessed form.

Some examples of these image formats are Nikon NEF, Olympus ORF, Fuji RAF, Sony ARW, Adobe DNG, Canon CR2, Panasonic RW2, and many others.

Camera raw images allow editors to change the photo parameters however they like because there were no modifications already made. Processed photos will usually end up in a .JPG or.TIFF format.

A RAW file might also represent a Raw Audio Data file, in which the same concept of lack of compression and processing is applicable. Other files with.RAW might be for the GameCube Emulator or Wii.

How to Convert RAW Files?

You have several options when it comes to converting RAW files. For instance, digital camera RAW files can be converted with a built-in converter. 

Nikon cameras often come with an option to convert within the device. Although convenience is a virtue, the tools only let you adjust some attributes. Not to mention, there’s an issue of judging the exposure, color, sharpness from the camera monitor. 

A small screen will present an image much differently than a computer monitor. Having the conversion option on your camera in a rush is great, but it should not be your go-to option.

How many image attributes you can adjust will depend on the software of your choosing, so if you’re looking for a program to convert your files, research intricately.

Some simple programs change the format .RAW to another, applying the same attributes the camera used when you take the photo in the original format.

Adobe Photoshop has a converter that allows you to adjust several panels of image attributes. For specifics on in-camera conversion, you will need to look at the manual. You can also find specific tutorials that are designed for your applications of choice.

General RAW Conversion Rules

In any case, there are some general rules to follow when starting with a RAW conversion. First and foremost, you should never delete your original RAW file. 

You might want to convert the file again with a different setting someday. Keeping the RAW file means you will have a pristine condition that you can return to whenever you like.

The settings used when making the conversion will stay with the RAW file, sort of like an outline of a recipe. The next time you open the file, you will not have to make adjustments again. They have applied automatically. 

Because your image data is still RAW, you can apply new adjustments without doing any damage to the image. To retain the greatest image quality after conversion, save the file in TIFF.

TIFF is a non-destructive format. It preserves as much of the image data as possible. This means you get the best quality, which is why TIFF is the standard for publishing. 

Most word processing, photo editing, and publishing software can work with TIFF. Most retail labs print TIFF primarily. Other non-destructive formats are PSD and PNG, which is why Photoshop uses them natively. 

PNG is compatible with practically all programs, but very few offer compatibility with PSD files. So if you want to make things simple and nobody requires more of you, simple use TIFF.

TIFF Downside & JPEG Use

TIFF does have one issue, however. Pictures in this format will be of much greater size than JPEG. But that’s what you have to deal with if you want to retain the best possible quality. If you want to use your converted image online, you will need to store it in JPEG.

TIFF cannot be worked online. Emails, browsers, and other apps don’t display them. JPEG is the universal photo format and is also compatible with almost all software/retail locations.

Just know that JPEG is a loss format, which means you will experience quality depreciation because of the compression. As far as RAW conversion, the best practice is to save two copies, one in TIFF and one in JPEG.

Image Conversion Online

Now that you know what RAW files are, as well as how to convert them, you are that much closer to making sure you get the results you want. As long as you know what file you want to end up with and which attributes to retain, you will get exactly what you want. 

And if you’re interested in converting the various image files to any other image format, check out our online conversion tool for free.

Have you ever seen an APK file, but wondered what it was? Well, you’re in the right place to find out what you need.

In essence, an APK is an archive file for applications on the Android OS. However, that’s not the only way to describe it, APK does so much more than that. 

In this article, we will cover everything you need to know about what is an APK so that you can have a full-fledged capacity of using it. 

Whenever you’re ready to learn about APK and what it’s for, keep reading.

What Is An APK?

APK, also known as an Android Package Kit is a file extension for a file that is used to distribute applications for the Android OS. It’s the .exe alternative of Windows OS used for installing software. The APK contains all of the necessary data of the application, starting with its resources and going as far as the manifest of the compiled app code.

Most android users download APK files from the Play Store when installing an application. The only reason they don’t know about it is that Android does everything in the background, you only see the front-end. If you know how to manually install applications, there are many other sources for APK files.

Nonetheless, you should be very cautious about downloading APK files, as much as you would be cautious about .exe files. Malware is easily stored in these files and can ruin your device.

These are the following prominent components of a regular APK file.

1. META-INF: signature, manifest file, list of archived resources
2. lib: native libraries for device architectures
3. assets: raw resources that are bundled with application
4. res: resources not compiled
5. AndroidManifest.xml: version, name, and contents
6. resources.arsc: compiled resources
7. classes.dex: compiled Java classes

And that’s pretty much it. However, APK files can be customized to other specifications, making the contents variable. Now that you know what is an APK, let’s discover how to open it.

How Do You Open an APK File?

APK files are not restricted to being opened on Android. They can also be opened on MAC, Windows, etc. Opening APK on android simply requires the downloaded file and then opening it via a click. But APK files installed not on Play Store will not install right away, there is a firewall that prevents that from happening.

To bypass the installation restriction on unknown sourced filed, navigate to one of the following menus.

1. Settings > Apps & Notifications
2. Settings > Security
3. Settings > Apps & Notifications > Advanced > Special App Access > Install Unknown Apps

Depending on the version of your device, you might need your application form which you download (Edge, Chrome, Brave) to have permission for installation. If you see Unknown Apps or Unknown Sources, enable that option.

If the APK does not open, browse it with your file manager. If you don’t have one, try Astro or ES File.

On Windows

You can also open APK on Windows using an emulator for Android. BlueStacks is a very popular example. In this application, you visit the My Apps tab and then click on the Install APK option in the corner.

After doing so, you can browse through your files and install any APK you like.

On Mac

Android apps can be tested on Mac as well, but not natively. ARC Welder is an extension for Chrome that runs on all OS. This means you can open your APK on any computer, as long as you have this extension.

On IOS

You cannot install or open APK on iPad or iPhone because the file build is incompatible with how applications work on IOS. The two platforms are not cross-compatible, but emulators can potentially solve this problem.

APK Extraction

Another way to open APK files on any of the potential OS is via an extractor tool. Since APK is just an archive of folders, you can unzip it with WinRar, 7-Zip, or PeaZip to see what makes up the application.

Doing this will not let you use the APK file on the device. To do this, you will need an Android emulator on your device which will run the necessary Android OS on your device.

How to Convert APK?

Even though file conversion is usually done with an application, it’s not really applicable to APK files. That’s because APK files are designed to run on certain devices only, unlike other files like PDF or MP4 that can are opened on many platforms.

Instead, if you want to convert your APK to an archive like ZIP, you will use the extractors mentioned above. Either open the file in the extractor and repackage it, or you can simply change the .APK extension to .ZIP.

This might seem odd because renaming a file does not actually convert a file. But it does work with APK files because the format is already using .ZIP, it’s just appending it as .APK.

You cannot convert APK to IPA for IOS use, neither can you convert APK to EXE for Windows using. But you can certainly find an alternative that works in place of the app that you want to install. Most developers have the same application available on multiple platforms but in the appropriate format.

Instead of using a non-existent APK/EXE converter, you simple open the Windows APK opener and then use it to open the application. It does not need to be .EXE for it to work.

You can also convert APK to BAR to use the application on BlackBerry devices. This is done by uploading your file to the converter, like a Good e-Reader. The conversion happens automatically and then you can download the BAR file back to your device of choice.

Ultimate File Conversion 

Now that you know what is an APK, you are that much closer to unlocking the full potential of its use. Unfortunately, there is not a way to convert APK to other platforms, but there are workarounds as mentioned above.

If you’re interested in a variety of file conversions directly in your browser without downloading software, check out our conversion solutions.

Do you want a free and easy way to compress your business and personal documents by up to 70%?

The answer lies with 7zip, an award-winning file compression archiver that’s used by millions of home and business users. It also offers high-end encryption to keep your spreadsheets, images, and files safe from prying eyes.

This article looks at the 7z file software and how to open 7-Zip files. 

You’ll learn all about the compression format along with the major benefits 7-Zip has to offer. Discover the differences between 7z, RAR, and Zip. Then see how to convert between several archive compression formats online for free.

Read on to find out why 7-Zip is a must-have tool to compress and secure your data.

What Is a 7z File?

7-Zip or the 7z format is a type of file compression software, similar to the popular .zip format found in Windows.

A 7z file looks and acts like a folder. It groups files together and uses an intelligent algorithm to remove unneeded data which reduces the overall file size.

This algorithm is called LZMA and it offers:

• Fast compression and decompression speeds
• Higher compression ratios than other archiving algorithms
• Small code file size and memory requirements
• Works with multi-threading for faster processing

All of these innovations allow you to take several files or folders and compress them to 30-70% of their original size. You can then send this group of files together via email or upload it to the cloud with ease.

Benefits of 7-Zip

The 7-Zip format is recognized as having better performance than regular zip files because it offers:

• Full control over how you archive and compress
• 256-bit AES encryption to keep files safe
• Higher levels of compression at faster speeds than Zip
• Opens other compression formats like BIZIP2, TAR, and X2

A popular rival to both the .zip and .7z formats is RAR.

RAR stands for Roshal Archive, named after its creator Eugene Roshal. Half-a-million users have downloaded the software and use it to compress their files. However, the WinRAR tool comes with a financial cost — approx. $55.

The biggest benefit of 7-Zip is that it’s free!

You can download the 7-Zip File Manager and it won’t cost you a penny. Also, benchmark tests that compare the three formats prove that 7z offers the best service.

Why use a worse product that costs money when 7-Zip does it better at no cost?

Opening 7z Files

What’s the best way to open a .7z file?

Firstly, download 7-Zip File Manager if you use Windows. macOS users must download an alternative compression software tool called Unarchiver. Both are free.

Make sure to choose the latest version of 7-Zip File Manager that matches your operating system (32-bit or 64-bit). You also have the option to download an executable (.exe) or installer (.msi) file or a standalone option (.7z).

For full integration with Windows, it’s best to choose the .exe option.

Follow the on-screen installation instructions and accept all the defaults. You need to have administrative privileges to be able to do this.

Program and Windows Shell

Once installed, you have two methods when opening a 7z file:

1. Through the file manager program
2. Via Windows Explorer (Windows Shell)

Opening the file manager gives you a host of options including adding and extracting files and copying/moving data.

Beneath the icons is a list of files in your Documents folder. You can navigate to another directory like Downloads or wherever the 7-zip file is located that you wish to open.

To view the contents of the 7z file or any compressed file like .zip, simply double-click it.

You’ll see a list of the files and folders along with their full file size, compressed size, and other useful attributes. You can order files by attribute by clicking on the header row.

Double-clicking a file will open it in a temporary location, a bit like a preview. But it’s best to extract the file(s) by clicking the Extract button. Choose the destination and the software will unpack them there.

Windows Shell Integration

7-Zip also integrates directly with Windows Explorer.

Open Explorer and navigate to the file you want to extract. Right-click and you’ll see a 7-Zip menu option. Moving your mouse over this branch displays a list of choices including ‘Open Archive’, ‘Extract Files…’, and ‘Extract here’.

Choose the latter to automatically extract all the files/folders contained within the 7-zip file to the current directory.

7z Conversion

Although 7-Zip can open different formats, that doesn’t mean that your friends or workers have the software installed.

They may only have WinRAR on their computers or no compression apps at all. In any case, you’ll need to convert your files to a different type.

The great news is that Offdrive lets you do this for free!

Convert 7z to Zip

Use our 7z to Zip online conversion tool to change your files into a format that everyone can open.

Although .zip files don’t offer the same functionality, Windows can read and open them. That means they’re guaranteed to work.

7z to RAR

For WinRAR users, convert 7z to RAR format.

All it takes is for you to upload your file and check the reCAPTCHA box to verify that you’re human. Hit Convert, wait for your file to process, then download it to your computer.

7z to TAR

Linux users often use the TAR compression format. Converting 7z to TAR sounds complicated but it doesn’t have to be with our online tool.

Remember, all of our conversion services are free. And you can upload and transform as many files as you want.

Free Online Archive Conversion at Offdrive

7-Zip files offer an excellent compression to speed ratio for reducing the total file size of your data.

The 7z extension brings with it built-in AES encryption that’s unbreakable if used with a strong password. The 7-Zip File Manager for Windows even integrates with Explorer so you can right-click a folder and compress it within seconds.

7z conversion is easy thanks to Offdrive’s free online Archive Conversion tools. Not only can you convert 7z to Zip or RAR formats but our service lets you convert formats in reverse.

Want to transform your RAR file into a 7-Zip archive? Then use our free tool to upload and convert as many files as you need.

Have you ever emailed a file to somebody, only to be told that they can’t open it? When you ask, you get all kinds of reasons why. Maybe they don’t have the software you used. Perhaps they opened it as a different file type and it got distorted. 

These problems occur all the time, leading to much consternation and wasted time. It doesn’t just happen with documents, either. In many cases, even images can cause a problem.

If this has happened to you, consider this: have you ever tried to convert images into another format?

Converting images into a PDF file can make your life and the life of your email correspondence so much easier. PDF files are a universal standard that you can open regardless of computer software.

Because of this, there are several benefits to converting an image to a PDF file. Moreover, Offdrive makes it easy for you to convert your files to and from a PDF! 

Preserve Your Graphic’s Integrity

The chief advantage of converting an image to a PDF file is preserving your graphic integrity. This means the picture will retain its original quality, or at least something close to the original.

Just as the image preserves its quality, so too is the layout retained. The image will not be cropped, rotated, or anything else that would change its appearance.

Because the PDF file has a universal design, it will keep its quality regardless of what software a computer has.

Secure Your File

PDF files offer a plethora of security functions to make sure your file is safe. This includes being able to encrypt a password to your file. This way, nobody can open it without having express knowledge of the password.

Another valuable security function is the watermark function. A PDF file allows you to insert a company watermark into the image, making it much harder for someone to copy or plagiarize. 

Lastly, PDFs allow you to create a digital signature for your file. For example, if you were to create a certificate image,  you can sign your end of the certificate.

Multi-Dimensional and Compact 

A PDF file is incredibly multi-dimensional in what it allows you to include. You can add text, audio files, videos, three-dimensional models, and more to your image file. 

You may not need all of these things in a single file, but it can be advantageous. For example, say you are sending a report to somebody in your company.

You could convert your images, such as charts or graphs, into a PDF file. Then, you can add further information to the image through explanatory text. You can then follow that up with a video clip.  

Such a multipurpose tool can be tremendously efficient at saving time. Now, you may be wondering how a single file could manage so many different features. 

If so, that’s a fair question. The short answer is that PDF files are intensely compact. They can handle near-infinite amounts of data while also giving you control over the quality of the image.

When Should You Convert Images OUT of PDF Formats

While PDFs have many advantages, they aren’t perfectly suited to every task. Other image files often work better for some purposes than a PDF file would. If you’re wondering what you should use, have no fear! 

In this section, we’ll compare the uses of PDF files to other image file types. That way, you’ll have an idea of what file type best fits your purposes.

1. PDF vs PNG

PDFs are ideal for images you intend to print, especially for graphic design and poster use. They’re also convenient for downloading an image for storage purposes. 

PNG files, however, are the best option for things like web graphics, such as illustrations or logos. PNG files can also shrink to become much smaller sizes if certain elements are limited, making them a compact choice as well.

Furthermore, PNG files are much easier to edit than a PDF file is. If your image is a work in progress rather than a finished product, it’s probably best to save it as a PNG file.

PNGs can also become transparent, allowing you to put text over an image or layer the image with illustrations.

2. PDF vs JPG

JPG images, like PNGs, are an excellent choice for online usage. If you plan on posting images or photos online, JPGs can help keep the size small.

Another advantage to JPG images is their use in showing preview images in emails. They are also a stellar choice for printing images at high resolution. 

3. PDF vs GIF

GIFs are useful if the image’s colors are more uniform, with fewer than 256 colors included. It’s a better choice for computer-generated images. GIFs are also better if you want an animated image rather than a still picture. 

How Do I Convert Images to Different File Types

At this point, you’re probably thinking, “Okay, so I get what I should use different files for. But how do I convert them?”

While many tools allow you to convert images, none of them are more straightforward than our Offdrive tools. To get started, all you have to do is visit our homepage.

From there, you’ll see several shortcuts that allow you to convert files, such as PNG to PDF or vice versa. Click your desired shortcut, verify you aren’t a robot, and select your image.

Click the convert button and boom! You have a converted image. It’s that straightforward.

Choose What’s Right For You

We hope this content helped! Remember, when you need to convert images, first decide what you’re using them for. If you need something edited multiple times, a PNG is best. If you want top-resolution photos printed, a JPG is what you want. 

Of course, if you want a secure, universal image file, a PDF is the optimal choice. There’s no need to make it complicated.

There was once a time when you didn’t need to think too much about which office suite you would use as Microsoft was the standard that we all turned to. Things have changed, however, and now there are more choices. One such popular choice is Google Suite.

Microsoft Office has been with us since 1990, which Google is relatively new to the office world having only launched its rival product in 2006. Both corporations would like you to use their products in your business. But is Microsoft Office better than Google Suite? 

Where do you stand in the Microsoft Office Vs Google Suite debate? Do you favor Office 365, or is Google Workplace better for your needs?

In this article, we look at the differences between Microsoft Office and Google Suite to help you to decide which one is right for you. 

Microsoft Office vs. Google Suite: The Background  

Microsoft Office and G Suite come from very different backgrounds. Office 365 is the latest product in a long history of Microsoft titles. Microsoft Office is very familiar to a lot of business users because the software has been with us since the early days of PC use. 

While Google may well be a well-known name, they’re still at the beginning of its journey into creating platforms for business use. Of course, Google has been with us since the 90s when they released their leading search engine.

Over the last two decades, they’ve added to their capability by bringing out apps such as Gmail and Google Docs- eventually bundling all of their apps first as Google Apps, then Google for Work, then G Suite, and then in October 2020, Google renamed Google Suite to Google Workplace.

Microsoft Office vs. G Suite: The Similarities 

Both Microsoft Office 365 and G Suite have lots in common. They are both subscription-based platforms charging fees based on the number of people using the service each month. 

G Suite is web-based although it does have the potential to work offline, Office 365 uses software installed on the desktop. It also provides web-based versions of all of its apps. 

Both G Suite and Office 365 work well on most devices. Due to the fact that it is web-based, you can use G Suite from most browsers and using any operating system. Microsoft software is available for Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS. 

Both Office 365 and G Suite offer the same applications at their core. Both have a word processing app, an app for spreadsheets, an email application, a calendar, a presentation app, and a contacts program, as well as messaging, video-conferencing, and note-taking. 

G Suite and Office 365 both utilize cloud storage. The two suites both offer plenty of tools too.

Microsoft Word vs. Google Docs

Microsoft Word is a familiar, full-featured wordprocessor. It is designed for power and has been around for long enough for all of the kinks to get ironed out.

More recent versions of the software have collaborative capabilities that put it on a par with G Suite. There are also extra layers of security to protect your valuable data. 

If you’re looking for more of a minimalist app with collaboration at its core, then Google Docs is for you. The layout of Docs may be less familiar to you. 

Because there isn’t a native version of Google Docs, you do risk losing data integrity when it comes to moving between on-server Microsoft Word and the web-based Google Docs. 

Microsoft Excel vs. Google Sheets

When creating business spreadsheets, Excel is very robust. It provides advanced formatting and scripting elements that make it ideal for analyzing macros. It has the ability to run more complex programs from the Excel platform. 

Sheets is fantastic for keeping records of contacts or for doing basic equations. It also has a chat window that allows you to discuss any changes that are getting made in real-time. 

The app falls down when it comes to investigating data, business intelligence, and pivot tables as Sheets has far fewer capabilities in this regard. 

Microsoft PowerPoint vs. Google Slides

Microsoft PowerPoint is not only familiar to many users, but it is also dynamic. It is commonly used across a variety of industries.

PowerPoint provides formatting and style elements that are both dynamic and varied. There are a lot of great built-in templates. 

In addition, PowerPoint is fantastic and integrating with social media platforms such as Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube. As soon as you have added video files to a presentation, you can use them in presentations offline. 

Slides is very similar to PowerPoint. It doesn’t have the same range of features or templates though. The app is straightforward to use, however, with fewer features, you have less creative freedom as you might do with PowerPoint. 

Slides has native YouTube integration. You will, however,  need to have an internet connection to be able to show any presentations that are embedded with web videos. 

Microsoft Office vs Google Suite Comparison

So, when it comes to Microsoft Office vs. G Suite, which one is right for you?

With power and a great legacy, it’s hard to beat Microsoft Office 365. If you’re looking for software that is stable, secure, and packed full of features, this is the option for you. 

If you would prefer something a bit more basic but that allows for smooth collaboration, then look no further than G Suite. 

Wherever you land on the Microsoft Office vs Google Suite debate, you’ll still have the occasional need to convert your files. 

Offdrive lets you do that quickly and easily. Why not try it for yourself today?

Approximately 80% of Americans want to publish a book in their lifetime, but so few actually do. Why? Yes, writing a book takes time and dedication, but publishing a book in the traditional way is very difficult too.

There are so many hoops to jump through to get a book published in hardback and paperback. But if you decide to self-publish an eBook instead, that is an easy process you could learn to do by yourself.

And to self-publish an eBook, you will need to turn it into an ePub file. This guide will explain everything you need to know about converting your eBook, no matter what format it’s in, to an ePub file.

What Is an ePub File?

An ePub file is a type of file format specifically made for eBooks. ePubs have the file extension .epub just like PDFs, for example, have the file extension .pdf.

Since its creation in 2007, it’s the most-used eBook file format for eReaders like Amazon’s Kindle, Kobo, and Nook. The latest smartphones are also able to open ePub files. If a smartphone isn’t compatible, an app like Universal Book Reader can open eBook files too.

Benefits of Using ePub Files

Though an ePub file is widely known in the digital publishing world to be the optimum file format for eBooks, many still might opt to format their eBook as a PDF or other more common document file types.

If you want to self-publish an eBook, there are several benefits to publishing it as an ePub instead of the alternatives.

ePubs Are Editable and Adaptable

A PDF file format, as an example, is more like digital paper. The images and words aren’t editable (at least not easily) which doesn’t make for an intuitive, adaptable document.

An ePub file is a zip file containing style sheets, images, words, and other interactive media. They are much easier to edit than other document file types which is possible through HTML coding.

ePubs also adapt and fit whatever type of screen they are displaying on. With other word documents, readers need to pinch and adapt each page to fit the screen, but ePubs are programmed to do this automatically. This helps authors create eBooks that flow exactly as they intended. 

ePubs Are Secure Files

Other word documents like PDF and DOC aren’t very secure. Especially DOC and DOCX, which anyone can edit! ePub files give authors more security over their copyrighted work as they aren’t easy to share.

They are DML protected which means users need permission before they can share the file.

Plus, ePubs are the standard file format for eBooks now. Publishers and users alike all have devices and eReaders that are compatible with ePub and not any other type of file. They expect a certain level of quality when reading eBooks so using a different file format may be detrimental to the user experience.

Creating an ePub File: Step-by-Step Guide

So, now you know why you should publish your eBook in an ePub file format! Here is how to create an ePub file from a different document file type.

Step 1: Identify Your Current File Type

Your current eBook format is likely either a DOCX, HTML, ODT, PAGES, PDF, RTF, or a TXT file. Offdrive has the capabilities to convert any of these file formats to an ePub file. 

Step 2: Go to Our Homepage

From the homepage, identify the “Document Conversion” section of the top menu. Click on the relevant conversion option. For the sake of this example, we’ll convert a PDF to an ePUB file.

Note that Offdrive has the means to convert many file types. So, if you also need to convert images, compressed folders, spreadsheets, and more then we offer the tools to do so. The most common conversions are also available directly on the homepage.

Step 3: Upload Your Current eBook File

Once you’ve clicked on the PDF to ePUB conversion option, the next webpage will ask you to select the file you want to convert. Click on the green browse button and search through your documents to locate your eBook file.

Once you’ve selected the eBook file, click open. The box next to the green browse button will now be filled with your eBook’s file name.

Step 4: Complete the CAPTCHA Test

As is common with many websites where there is an input of data, all users need to complete a CAPTCHA test. This is a security feature designed to stop malicious hacking attempts from uploading harmful software to the website.

Anyone should be able to complete these tests. In this instance, the CAPTCHA test is simply a tickbox you need to check next to the words “I’m not a robot.”

Step 5: Convert the File to an ePub File Format

Next, click the green button to convert the file. It may take some time to scan the file for viruses and to complete the conversion depending on the size of the file. In most cases, the process shouldn’t take longer than a few seconds.

Then, you can either convert more files or download the file you just converted. If you click the download button, you will need to save the newly converted file to your computer. This is so you don’t lose it and can reaccess and use the file.

You have now created an ePub file! The process is identical no matter which type of file format you would like to convert to an ePub file.

Self Publish an eBook Using the Right Files

This is everything you need to know to self-publish an eBook using the ePub file format. It’s a straightforward process and ultimately, self-publishing your own book is simpler and more accessible than the traditional publishing process.

Do you need to create and convert other documents into different file formats? Our website has the capabilities for most types of file conversions. Check out how to convert a PDF to a DOC file here.

In the internet age, the distribution of images is extremely common across all sites. Anyone who strives to be internet fluent should recognize the need to know how to share images.

Over the past few decades, there are two common formats for sharing, posting, sending, and creating images: GIFs and PNGs. Do you know t\how to work both of these essential file types?

Now let’s take a look at everything you need to know about GIFs and PNGs and their differences. Here is a rundown on GIF vs PNG, what they actually are, and their origins.

After that, we’ll answer the important question you have probably asked yourself: should I use a GIF or a PNG?

What Are GIFs?

Both terms are, of course, acronyms of more complicated words. GIF stands for Graphics Interchange Format. While GIFs are great for animation and short clips, they lack strong and convertible coloring at times.

GIFs are really the “old and trusty way” to share files over the internet. They convert extremely well across numerous formats. The Graphic Interchange Format was developed in 1987 and has had two eras of prosperity.

After losing some appeal due to newer and higher-quality options such as PNG in the early 2000s, GIFs have enjoyed a second life utilized heavily within social media apps like Twitter.

What Are PNGs?

Mimicking the rise of GIFs, PNGs are also a technological achievement and a great option for image files. Also known as Portable Network Graphics, PNGs became common just at the turn of the century around 1998-1999.

PNG has color and brightness management and is superior to GIFs in that area. The files compress up to 25 percent better when sent. PNGs are better for creating images from scratch.

Unfortunately, PNGs do not support animation as GIFs do. But the advanced color is evident with PNGs as it supports thousands of more shades than GIFs (less than 300 colors).

Overall, PNGs are a slightly newer method and are more-advanced than GIFs, but this means that they might not work as well for older images and links as GIFs do.

Similarities of GIF vs PNG

Both PNGs and GIFs have been designed in the internet age to better share images and information. Since they are both great options, their use across the internet is split. That means it is important to be able to convert images between the two formats.

These two image management systems both are used for about 25 percent of files sent over the internet. JPEGs also are significant and are used over 40 percent of the time, making most of the market one of these three.

You can identify both by checking the file extension at the end of a file name. It should be listed at the tail end after a period. GIFs are sometimes spelled as “.gfa” instead.

Uploading An Image Online

You may need to upload or send a GIF or PNG for numerous reasons. As an assignment for school or work, you might need images. Most of the websites on the internet have carefully orchestrated ways to insert both of these file types when they publish pages since images are so essential.

PNGs and GIFs are very commonly shared over social media sites for personal use. Or that could even be for business if you are a member of the media. Anything from linking a URL to an image on a homepage to sending a gif by text is manipulating these images.

Now that you know how PNGs and GIFs are similar and different you can decide which one is better to use. But actually, the answer is both. It completely depends on the situation, as some instances call for a GIF and some for use of a PNG.

What factors are at play when it comes to deciding whether to use a PNG or GIF?

When to Use a PNG

There are a ton of PNG benefits with any image type or situation. As covered above, PNGs offer many of the advantages of GIFs as well as improving on many of their aspects.

Use a PNG for most situations, especially when you need clear and sharp graphics. Unless animation is involved, feel secure always using PNG.

The best thing about PNGs is that they are nearly as small as GIFs but with all the added benefits of the color and picture still included.

When to Use a GIF

Once again, the question of animation use is a crucial factor in making this determination. Anytime you are using animation, or any moving image, you should use GIF not PNG to send or post a file.

Another time to use GIF is when you are dealing with limitations on the size of and space for the image. GIF files are smaller than PNG or even JPEG files.

But if you are asking yourself, “should I use a GIF?”, when any of these factors are at play, steer clear: a need for photo-quality images with a range of colors, or a need to edit the image after sending/posting. If you plan on printing the image later on, don’t use a GIF.

Converting a GIF to a PNG

You may be wondering how to convert between the two image file types. There are two ways: you can convert a file manually between the two, which can be tricky. You can do this within a Word document or Paintshop.

An easier way is to utilize one of the many online sites that can convert the file for you.

Now You Know

For anyone who is online a lot, it is in their best interest to know GIFs and PNGs and how they work. Perhaps most important is to understand the differences between GIF vs PNG and how to convert pictures between the two.

For more helpful articles on file conversion, check out the rest of our blog!

One of the hallmarks of the 21st century is the move towards digital media. Twenty years ago, music, games, and even books were strictly physical mediums. Now, you can easily access these same items as electronic files.

With digital media, accessing your content is easier than ever and can be done on virtually any smart device. The EPUB format makes great use of this to allow consumers easy access to information like books, articles, or documents.

EPUB is short for electronic publication and affords varied utility and options from smartphone users to business owners. Keep reading to learn what are EPUB files and how you can use them.

What is an Electronic Publication File?

EPUB files are a versatile form of electronic formatting that can allow you to convert various media into easily accessible digital files. EPUB files can hold words, images, tables, fonts, and metadata.

The EPUB file is widely universal, which means you can access the files on your smartphone, tablet, e-reader, or computer. Another benefit of the EPUB format is that these files can be read on multiple devices without interfering with the layout. Essentially, no matter the screen size of your device, these files will still look the same.

EPUB is free to use, which makes it the most common format for ebooks. While there are other formats for ebooks, EPUB is so widespread that you can access them on nearly any device. The only devices that cannot read EPUB are the Amazon Kindle devices.

However, you can get around this by using a program called Calibre to convert EPUB files into a format that the Nook will read.

How to View EPUB Files

Because of their widespread use, an EPUB file can be viewed by nearly any device, save for the Kindle. The Nook and Kobo e-readers can open EPUBs without converting the files. iPad users can also view these files by using the Books app.

For desktops and laptops, some of the options available are Calibre, Stanza Desktop, Apple Books, and many others. Mac users can also utilize Readium to read EPUBs.

For iPhone and Android users, there are many different apps to choose from to read EPUBs. The app that works best for you will depend on your personal tastes and how each app meets your needs.

Some browsers, like Firefox and Chrome, have extensions that will allow you to read EPUBs in the browser. You can install EPUBReader in Firefox and Simple EPUB Reader in Google Chrome. 

You can also use Google Play Books to view EPUBs. By uploading the file to your account, you can access it via the web client.

Because EPUBs and ZIP files are structured in the same way, you can also use compression programs to open EPUBs. To do this, replace the .epub at the end of the file’s name with .zip. When you do this, you’ll also be able to see the contents of the file.

How to Convert EPUBs 

If you need to convert files to an EPUB or vice-versa, you will need special software to do so. If you manually change the file extension by simply erasing it and replacing it with another one, you can end up with a corrupt file.

One program that can do this is Calibre. It is one of the most popular conversion programs because it can convert files to most ebook formats available. Some of the available options include TXT, PDF, MOBI, HTML, and many more.

You can also view your EPUBs by using Calibre.

If you already have a way to view EPUBs and want something a little simpler, Zamzar may be the way to go for you. With Zamzar, you can convert EPUBs to different text formats like PDF, TXT, FB2, and others.

Another way to convert them is to try and open the file in an ebook reader software and then try to save or export the file as a different file type.

Some websites will allow you to convert files for free. For example, Offdrive will let you convert PDFs to EPUBs by uploading the file to the site.

What to Do If You Can’t Open the File

In general, the most common reason people have trouble opening these files is mistaking the file extension for another. Different file formats can look almost exactly like another, which can confuse people.

An example of this is PUB files, which you may think are EPUBs but are different altogether. PUB files are used by Microsoft Publisher as Publisher Document Files. 

If you mistakenly downloaded the wrong file format, you can always attempt to convert the file to the EPUB format. 

In other cases, your file may be corrupted. If this is the case, there are some ways to attempt to repair the file, but each fix is specific to the reason. Attempts to repair files work about 50% of the time, but there is definitely no harm in trying.

If you can’t fix the file, your only option will be to redownload it.

How to Make Your Own EPUB

If you are an independent author and you want to publish your book as an ebook, there are ways to convert your book file to EPUB. This will usually involve software that will format your book so that it looks presentable.

Draft2Digital is one of the easiest methods to convert your file for free. You can upload your Word file and have it converted to EPUB. Plus, thanks to Draft2Digital’s terms of service, you can take the file and submit it to another retailer or distributor to get it published.

Your Ultimate Source for File Conversion

If you found this guide on what are EPUB files helpful, Offdrive has much more for you to offer. We have free conversion tools that will allow you to convert your images, documents, PDFs, spreadsheets, and more, into other file types. We also have a blog on file conversion topics to help you learn more when converting your files. Check out our site and see what we have to offer.