Why Convert Plain Text to XML?
You have data in a plain text file, but the system you need to feed it into requires XML. This is a common situation when working with APIs, databases, configuration files, or data imports.
Plain TXT files are simple and universal, but they lack structure. XML adds the tags, hierarchy, and formatting that machines need to understand your data. In our testing, converting to XML made previously unusable text data immediately compatible with enterprise systems.
How to Convert TXT to XML
- Upload your TXT file - Drag and drop or click to select your text file
- Confirm XML as output - XML is selected for structured data output
- Download your XML - Your structured file is ready for use
The conversion happens in your browser. Your data stays on your device throughout the process.
TXT vs XML: Key Differences
Understanding when to use each format helps you make the right choice:
- Structure - TXT has none; XML uses tags to organize data hierarchically
- Machine readability - TXT requires custom parsing; XML has standardized parsers
- Flexibility - TXT is human-friendly; XML is both human and machine readable
- Validation - TXT has no validation; XML can be validated against schemas
- File size - TXT is minimal; XML adds overhead from tags but gains structure
XML is the better choice when data needs to be processed by other systems or shared between applications.
Common Use Cases
API Data Preparation
Many web services and APIs expect XML input. Converting your text data to XML format makes it ready for system integration without manual reformatting.
Database Imports
Importing data into databases often requires structured formats. XML provides the clear field definitions that database import tools expect.
Configuration Files
Application settings often use XML format. Converting text-based configs to XML makes them compatible with enterprise software systems.
Data Exchange
Sharing data between different platforms works better with XML. The structured format ensures recipients can parse the data correctly regardless of their system.
When to Choose a Different Format
XML is powerful but not always the best choice. Consider alternatives:
- TXT to CSV - Better for tabular data going into spreadsheets
- TXT to HTML - Better for web page content display
- TXT to PDF - Better for document sharing and printing
Choose XML when you need hierarchical structure, schema validation, or compatibility with enterprise systems.
Browser-Based Conversion
Our converter works entirely in your browser:
- Windows, Mac, Linux, Chromebook
- Chrome, Firefox, Safari, Edge
- No software to install
- No account required
Processing happens locally, so your text content remains private throughout the conversion.