Convert PPTX to PPT on Mac: Easy Steps

Gregory Jul 09, 2026

Are you a Mac user in need of converting a PPTX file to the older PPT format? You're not alone. While PowerPoint has shifted to the newer PPTX format, there are still instances where you might need to revert to the older PPT format. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to achieve this on your Mac.

the text ppt to pdf is shown above an image of a file and arrow
the text ppt to pdf is shown above an image of a file and arrow

Before we dive into the process, it's important to understand that converting PPTX to PPT might lead to some formatting changes. This is because PPTX files use a newer version of the Open XML standard, which includes features not available in the older PPT format. However, for basic presentations, the conversion should retain most of the content and layout.

How to Convert a PowerPoint Presentation to a PDF File
How to Convert a PowerPoint Presentation to a PDF File

Using Microsoft PowerPoint

Microsoft PowerPoint for Mac allows you to save your PPTX files in the older PPT format. Here's how:

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How to Convert Keynote to Powerpoint on Mac, iPhone, iPad

1. Open Microsoft PowerPoint on your Mac.

2. Click on 'File' in the menu bar, then select 'Open'.

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How To Convert Word Document To PowerPoint Presentation | 2016 | 2019 | 2021

3. Navigate to the location of your PPTX file, select it, and click 'Open'.

Saving as PPT

4. Once your PPTX file is open, click on 'File' again, then 'Save As'.

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AI Is Coming To PowerPoint And It Is Really Smart: Convert Word Doc to PowerPoint in a click

5. In the 'Format' dropdown menu, select 'PowerPoint 97-2004'. This is the equivalent of the PPT format.

6. Choose a location to save your new PPT file, give it a name, and click 'Save'.

Using Third-Party Software

an image of the word simple in microsoft's powerpoint slider editor, with the text simple highlighted
an image of the word simple in microsoft's powerpoint slider editor, with the text simple highlighted

If you don't have Microsoft PowerPoint or prefer a simpler, free solution, there are third-party tools available. One such tool is iPic, a free file converter for Mac.

1. Download and install iPic from the Mac App Store.

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2. Open iPic and click on 'Add Files' to select your PPTX file.

3. In the 'Convert to' dropdown menu, select 'PowerPoint 97-2004'.

4. Choose a location to save your new PPT file, then click on 'Convert'.

Manually Editing the File Extension

If you're comfortable with file management and want a quick, no-frills solution, you can manually change the file extension from PPTX to PPT.

1. Navigate to the location of your PPTX file in Finder.

2. Right-click on the file and select 'Get Info'.

3. Under the 'Name and Extension' section, click on the 'PPTX' extension and change it to 'PPT'.

4. Click 'Enter' to confirm the change. Note that this method might not retain all formatting and features of the original PPTX file.

And there you have it! Whether you're using Microsoft PowerPoint, a third-party tool, or manual file management, converting PPTX to PPT on your Mac is a straightforward process. Now, go ahead and make that presentation shine, regardless of the file format.