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[Excel] Difference between Excel and CSV files


Comma Separated Values (CSV)
is a plain text file that saves data in a tabular format.

Excel is a binary file that holds data but allows specific Excel features like formatting, charts, formula and graphics.

Although both share some similar features, these files are completely different from each other and serve different purposes.
 
Difference between Excel and CSV
 Features  Excel   CSV
 Can perform VBA Code  Yes  No
 Can perform formula and function  Yes  No
 Can display chart and graph  Yes  No
 Compatible in several platforms  No  Yes
 Consumes less memory  No  Yes
 Faster and less complicated  No  Yes
 Can be linked to other sources  Yes  No
 Can save image data  Yes  No
 Allows data manipulation  Yes  No
 Supports multiple tabs  Yes  No

  When to Use Excel or CSV
 Requirements  Format 
 Present Graphs and Charts   Excel
 Open file on different computers  CSV
 Make summaries of large data  Excel
 Open data in notepad or text editor   CSV

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