Convert WordStar .WS to OpenDocument (ODT)
For public-sector and open-standards environments that require ODF, convert WordStar documents straight to .odt.
TL;DR
Install the free WordStar Converter trial, add your .ws files, choose ODT, and convert. You get standards-compliant OpenDocument files produced entirely on your own machine.
How to convert WordStar to OpenDocument (ODT) — step by step
Install WordStar Converter (free trial)
Download the installer for Windows 10/11. The trial converts up to 10 files with all features enabled.
Add the WordStar archive
Point the app at your folder of .ws / .wsd / .ws3–.ws8 files.
Choose ODT as the output format
Select OpenDocument Text (.odt). Add PDF in the same run if your retention schedule wants both an editable and a fixed-layout copy.
Convert and verify in LibreOffice
Click Convert and open a sample in LibreOffice Writer before running the full archive.
Why convert WordStar files to ODT?
Many governments and universities mandate OpenDocument for long-term records. Converting WordStar documents to .odt gets them into policy compliance in one step.
LibreOffice does ship a WordStar import filter, but it is incomplete: high-bit wrap, print controls, and 5.0+ symmetrical sequences are often mangled. Writing ODT from a native parser is one clean translation instead of hoping the built-in filter survives your archive.
Safer than free online converters
Online converters require uploading confidential WordStar documents to third-party servers. WordStar Converter runs entirely on your Windows PC — nothing is uploaded.
That matters for contracts, case files, board minutes, and any archive covered by privilege, GDPR, HIPAA, or confidentiality clauses.
FAQ
Is there a free way to convert .WS to ODT?
Yes. The free trial of WordStar 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. WordStar Converter is a Windows desktop app. Every conversion runs locally on your PC. Nothing is uploaded.
Can I convert an entire folder of WordStar files at once?
Yes. Point the app at a folder (it scans subfolders), select ODT as the output, and it batch-converts .ws, .wsd, and .ws3–.ws8 files in parallel.
Which WordStar versions are supported?
WordStar Converter reads classic WordStar documents through Release 7, including high-bit wrap flags, print controls, and later symmetrical sequences.
Can LibreOffice open WordStar files directly?
LibreOffice has a limited WordStar filter. It often fails on classic high-bit wrap and later symmetrical sequences. Converting with a native parser is the reliable way into ODT.
Related conversions
Get your WordStar documents into OpenDocument
Free trial converts 10 files to ODT — batch, offline, standards-compliant.
Free trial
Full app features — up to 10 files
Windows 10 or 11
Download the Windows installer for the full 10-file trial. Same app you unlock with a license — 100% local on your PC.