Difference Between
versus

Doc vs. Docx: Know the Difference

Shumaila Saeed
By Shumaila Saeed || Updated on December 25, 2023
Doc is a binary file format for Word documents, while Docx is a newer, XML-based format that is smaller in size and more secure.
Doc vs. Docx

Key Differences

Doc is the traditional file format used by Microsoft Word before 2007. It is a binary format, which means it stores data in a specific, encoded way. Docx, introduced with Word 2007, is based on the Office Open XML format, making it more efficient and easier to manage.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 19, 2023
Doc files are typically larger because of their binary structure, which can make sharing and transferring these files more cumbersome. In contrast, Docx files are smaller and more compact due to their XML structure, facilitating easier sharing and faster uploads.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 19, 2023
Compatibility is a notable difference; Doc files can be opened by almost all versions of Microsoft Word. However, Docx files require newer versions of Word or a compatibility pack for older versions, due to their modern XML format.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 19, 2023
In terms of security, Docx is considered more secure. Its XML structure allows it to be more resistant to corruption and less prone to virus attacks compared to the older Doc format.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 19, 2023
Regarding formatting and data handling, Docx files are more reliable. They handle complex formatting, images, and styles more efficiently than Doc files, which can sometimes struggle with complex document structures.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 19, 2023
ADVERTISEMENT

Comparison Chart

File Size

Generally larger due to binary coding.
Smaller and more efficient.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 19, 2023

Compatibility

Can be opened by almost all Word versions.
Requires newer versions or compatibility pack.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 19, 2023

Security

Less secure, more prone to corruption.
More secure and resistant to corruption.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 19, 2023

Formatting

May struggle with complex structures.
Handles complex formatting more efficiently.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 19, 2023

Introduced

Used before Word 2007.
Introduced with Word 2007.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 19, 2023
ADVERTISEMENT

Doc and Docx Definitions

Doc

Doc files are widely compatible with various Word versions.
Send me the document in Doc format so I can open it on my old computer.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 10, 2023

Docx

Docx requires newer Word versions or a compatibility pack to open.
If you can't open this Docx file, you might need to update your Word software.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 10, 2023

Doc

Doc files tend to be larger and less secure than Docx files.
I prefer Docx, but for this case, save it as a Doc due to size concerns.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 10, 2023

Docx

Docx is an XML-based file format introduced with Microsoft Word 2007.
For the latest features, save your document as a Docx file.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 10, 2023

Doc

Doc is a file format used by Microsoft Word before 2007.
Please save the report as a Doc file for compatibility.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 10, 2023
ADVERTISEMENT

Docx

Docx files are smaller, more efficient, and secure compared to Doc.
Use Docx format for a more compact and secure document.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 10, 2023

Doc

Doc format is known for its binary coding of document data.
Older Word documents are typically in the Doc format.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 10, 2023

Docx

Docx format supports advanced formatting and multimedia integration.
To preserve the layout, I'll save the brochure as a Docx.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 10, 2023

Doc

Doc is less efficient in handling complex document structures.
Avoid using too many images in a Doc file, as it may become unwieldy.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 10, 2023

Docx

Docx is preferred for its better handling of complex document structures.
For our annual report, let's use Docx for its superior formatting capabilities.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 10, 2023

Doc

A person with an advanced degree licensed to practice in a medical field, such as a physician, dentist, or veterinarian.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 09, 2023

Doc

(informal) A doctor.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 09, 2023

Doc

A document, especially (in professional jargon) a piece of technical documentation or legal evidence.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 09, 2023

Doc

(informal) A documentary.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 09, 2023

Doc

Clipping of doctorate
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 09, 2023

Doc

A licensed medical practitioner;
I felt so bad I went to see my doctor
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 09, 2023

Doc

The United States federal department that promotes and administers domestic and foreign trade (including management of the census and the patent office); created in 1913
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 09, 2023

Repeatedly Asked Queries

Can I open Docx files in older versions of Word?

To open Docx files in older Word versions, a compatibility pack is needed.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 19, 2023

What is a Doc file?

A Doc file is a Microsoft Word document file format used before 2007.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 19, 2023

Why are Docx files more secure than Doc files?

Docx files have a more robust structure, making them less prone to corruption and security issues.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 19, 2023

Can I open Doc files on non-Microsoft word processors?

Most word processors support Doc files, but compatibility may vary.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 19, 2023

Is there a significant size difference between Doc and Docx files?

Yes, Docx files are generally smaller and more efficient than Doc files.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 19, 2023

How can I convert a Docx file to a Doc file?

You can convert a Docx file to Doc using the "Save As" feature in Word and selecting the Doc format.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 19, 2023

How is Docx different from Doc?

Docx is an XML-based format, smaller and more secure, whereas Doc is a larger, binary format.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 19, 2023

Can Doc handle complex formatting as well as Docx?

Docx handles complex formatting and multimedia better than the older Doc format.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 19, 2023

What are the benefits of using Docx over Doc?

Docx offers better security, efficiency, and formatting capabilities.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 19, 2023

Does the Doc format support multimedia elements?

While Doc supports multimedia, Docx handles these elements more efficiently.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 19, 2023

How does the binary structure of Doc affect its use?

The binary structure of Doc files makes them larger and less efficient compared to Docx.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 19, 2023

Are there any compatibility issues with Docx files?

Some older systems may have issues with Docx files, requiring a compatibility pack.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 19, 2023

Are Doc files compatible with all versions of Word?

Yes, Doc files can be opened by almost all versions of Microsoft Word.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 19, 2023

Will I lose any data if I convert a Doc file to Docx?

Converting from Doc to Docx usually retains all data, but complex formatting may need adjustments.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 19, 2023

Which format is better for long, complex documents?

Docx is better for long, complex documents due to its efficient handling of formatting and data.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 19, 2023

Is it necessary to update Word to use Docx files?

Using the latest Word versions is recommended for full Docx support.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 19, 2023

Why was the Docx format introduced?

Docx was introduced to provide a more efficient, secure, and modern format for Word documents.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 19, 2023

Is Docx suitable for sharing documents online?

Yes, Docx is ideal for online sharing due to its smaller size and compatibility with modern systems.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 19, 2023

Can I edit a Docx file in an online word processor?

Yes, most online word processors support editing Docx files.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 19, 2023

Do all printers support printing Doc and Docx files?

Printers generally support both formats, but the printing software needs to be compatible.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 19, 2023

Share this page

Link for your blog / website
HTML
Link to share via messenger
About Author
Shumaila Saeed
Written by
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed, an expert content creator with 6 years of experience, specializes in distilling complex topics into easily digestible comparisons, shining a light on the nuances that both inform and educate readers with clarity and accuracy.

Popular Comparisons

Trending Comparisons

Smart TV vs. Android TVSmart TV vs. Android TV
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 25, 2023
A Smart TV is an internet-connected television with a variety of apps, while an Android TV is specifically a Smart TV powered by Google's Android TV operating system.
Special Education vs. Inclusive EducationSpecial Education vs. Inclusive Education
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
February 17, 2024
Special Education is tailored instruction for students with disabilities, while Inclusive Education integrates all students, including those with disabilities, into general education settings.
Seagate Exos x16 vs. Seagate Exos x18Seagate Exos x16 vs. Seagate Exos x18
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
February 8, 2024
The Seagate Exos X16 offers up to 16TB storage with a focus on high-capacity data centers, while the Exos X18 upgrades to 18TB, enhancing performance and capacity for enterprise demands.
C3 Plants vs. C4 PlantsC3 Plants vs. C4 Plants
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 25, 2023
C3 plants use a direct carbon fixation process, common in cooler climates, while C4 plants have a specialized mechanism, efficient in high light and temperature.
Social Change vs. Cultural ChangeSocial Change vs. Cultural Change
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 25, 2023
Social change refers to shifts in societal structures and institutions, impacting behaviors and relationships among people. Cultural change pertains to alterations in a group's shared beliefs, values, and customs, influencing their way of life.
Compression Wood vs. Tension WoodCompression Wood vs. Tension Wood
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 25, 2023
Compression Wood is a denser, abnormal growth in softwood trees under mechanical stress, whereas Tension Wood is a less dense, fibrous growth in hardwoods under similar stress.
Gorilla Glass 3 vs. Gorilla Glass 5Gorilla Glass 3 vs. Gorilla Glass 5
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
January 1, 2024
Gorilla Glass 3 offers improved scratch resistance and durability compared to its predecessors, while Gorilla Glass 5 focuses on enhanced drop protection and toughness.
Gavage vs. LavageGavage vs. Lavage
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 25, 2023
Gavage is the process of feeding a person or animal by inserting a tube into the stomach, while lavage is the washing out of a body cavity, such as the stomach, typically for medical treatment.
Travel Agent vs. Tour OperatorTravel Agent vs. Tour Operator
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 25, 2023
A travel agent is a professional who arranges travel plans for individuals, while a tour operator designs and manages complete travel packages.
Sausage vs. SmokieSausage vs. Smokie
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 25, 2023
A sausage is a type of meat product usually made from ground meat, often pork, beef, or poultry, while a smokie is a specific type of smoked sausage.
Nanomaterials vs. NanoparticlesNanomaterials vs. Nanoparticles
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 25, 2023
Nanomaterials are diverse materials with components smaller than 100nm, whereas nanoparticles are specific, ultrafine particles within this size range.
Plant Cell vs. Animal CellPlant Cell vs. Animal Cell
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 25, 2023
Plant cells have a cell wall and chloroplasts for photosynthesis, while animal cells lack these but have centrioles.
Hard Copy vs. Soft CopyHard Copy vs. Soft Copy
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 25, 2023
A Hard Copy is a physical version of a document or file, usually on paper, while a Soft Copy is a digital version of the document, stored electronically.
Term vs. SemesterTerm vs. Semester
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 25, 2023
Term is a general period for any division of the academic year, while Semester specifically refers to half of an academic year.
Japanese Eyes vs. Chinese EyesJapanese Eyes vs. Chinese Eyes
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 25, 2023
Japanese Eyes and Chinese Eyes refer to linguistic structures in Japanese and Chinese respectively, each reflecting unique aspects of grammar and syntax.
Batch Fermentation vs. Continuous FermentationBatch Fermentation vs. Continuous Fermentation
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
February 10, 2024
Batch Fermentation is a finite process where nutrients are added at the start and products are harvested at the end, whereas Continuous Fermentation involves a steady input of nutrients and continuous product harvest.
Absolute Privilege vs. Qualified PrivilegeAbsolute Privilege vs. Qualified Privilege
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 26, 2023
Absolute privilege is a complete defense against defamation claims, often used in legal or parliamentary contexts, while qualified privilege offers conditional protection, requiring the absence of malice.
2 Pole Motors vs. 4 Pole Motors2 Pole Motors vs. 4 Pole Motors
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 25, 2023
2 Pole Motors have one pair of magnetic poles and run at higher speeds, while 4 Pole Motors have two pairs of poles and operate at lower speeds, offering higher torque.
Analog Computer vs. Digital ComputerAnalog Computer vs. Digital Computer
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 25, 2023
An Analog Computer processes continuous data, whereas a Digital Computer processes data in discrete numerical form.
Goth vs. AltGoth vs. Alt
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
February 5, 2024
Goth is a dark, often Victorian-influenced subculture and style, while Alt (alternative) is a broader term encompassing non-mainstream styles and attitudes.
System Call vs. System ProgramSystem Call vs. System Program
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
February 9, 2024
A System Call is an interface for programs to request services from the operating system, while a System Program is software that provides basic functions for computer operation.
Handsome vs. SmartHandsome vs. Smart
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 25, 2023
Handsome describes physical attractiveness, focusing on looks, while smart denotes intelligence or cleverness, related to mental capabilities.
Fast Food vs. Traditional FoodFast Food vs. Traditional Food
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 25, 2023
Fast Food is quick, convenient, and often pre-prepared, while Traditional Food emphasizes cultural recipes, longer preparation times, and home cooking.
Consecutive vs. SubsequentConsecutive vs. Subsequent
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 25, 2023
Consecutive refers to events or things following one after another in uninterrupted sequence, whereas subsequent denotes following in time or order, but not necessarily immediately afterward.

Featured Comparisons

New Comparisons