Convert WDB (Works Database) to Excel or CSV
Rescue Microsoft Works database files — .wdb records converted to Excel spreadsheets or clean CSV, in bulk and entirely on your PC.
TL;DR
Install the free Works Converter trial, add your .wdb files, and convert to XLSX or CSV. Each database becomes a proper table of rows and columns you can filter, import, or analyze — with nothing uploaded.
How to convert WDB to Excel (XLSX) — step by step
Install Works Converter (free trial)
Download the offline installer for Windows 10/11. The trial converts up to 10 files with every feature enabled.
Add your WDB files or a folder
Drag in .wdb files or point the app at a folder tree. Subfolders are scanned automatically, and Works content is detected even when extensions are missing.
Choose XLSX or CSV output
Pick Excel (.xlsx) for a ready-to-use spreadsheet, or CSV to import the records into another database, CRM, or data pipeline.
Convert and use your records
Click Convert — files process locally in parallel. Each database opens as a clean table of rows and fields, ready to filter or import.
Why convert Works database files?
The Microsoft Works Database (.wdb) has no modern successor — no current application opens it, so those records are effectively locked. Converting WDB to XLSX or CSV is the only practical way to read customer lists, inventories, and archives that were built in Works.
CSV is the universal import format for databases, CRMs, and analytics tools, while XLSX keeps everything in a familiar spreadsheet grid. Works Converter emits either, so the data lands wherever you need it next.
Safer than free online converters
Online converters require uploading confidential Microsoft Works files to third-party servers. Works File Converter runs entirely on your Windows PC — nothing is uploaded.
That matters for payroll, ledgers, rate cases, and any archive covered by GDPR, confidentiality, or audit requirements.
FAQ
Is there a free way to convert Microsoft Works files?
Yes. The free trial of Works File Converter converts up to 10 files with full features — no signup and no watermarks. Unlimited conversions are a one-time $39.95 license (no subscription).
Is this an online converter? Do my files get uploaded?
No. Works File Converter is a Windows desktop app. Every conversion runs locally on your PC. Nothing is uploaded.
Can I convert an entire folder at once?
Yes. Point the app at a folder (it scans subfolders) and batch-convert .wps, .wks, .xlr, .wdb, and .wpt files in parallel.
What program opens .wdb files today?
None of the current Office apps open .wdb (Microsoft Works Database) files. Works Converter reads them directly and exports the records to Excel (.xlsx) or CSV, which every modern tool can open.
Should I convert WDB to Excel or CSV?
Choose XLSX if you want to work with the records in a spreadsheet right away, or CSV if you need to import them into another database, CRM, or analytics tool. Works Converter can produce both in one run.
Related conversions
Unlock the records inside your Works databases
Free trial converts 10 files to Excel or CSV — batch, offline, no uploads.
Free trial
Full app features - up to 10 files
Windows 10 or 11
Download the offline installer below for the full 10-file trial. Conversion stays on your PC.