Crossword File Converter

Convert crossword puzzles between .puz, .jpz, and .ipuz — free, instant, and right in your browser. No account or software required.

Upload a puzzle file

Supported formats: .puz (Across Lite), .jpz (Crossword Compiler), .ipuz / .json (iPuz), .pdf

Reading file…

Supported crossword formats

.puz

Across Lite format. The most widely supported crossword format, used by major publications.

.jpz

Crossword Compiler format. XML-based format with support for advanced grid features.

.ipuz

Modern open standard. JSON-based, lossless, supports all puzzle features.

How to convert a crossword file

  1. 1 Upload your crossword file (.puz, .jpz, .ipuz, or .pdf).
  2. 2 Choose the format you want to convert to.
  3. 3 Click Convert & Download — your converted puzzle saves straight to your device.

Popular conversions

The converter works in every direction between the major crossword formats:

  • .puz to .ipuz
  • .ipuz to .puz
  • .puz to .jpz
  • .jpz to .puz
  • .jpz to .ipuz
  • .ipuz to .jpz
  • .pdf to .ipuz
  • .pdf to .puz
  • .pdf to .jpz

Frequently asked questions

Is the crossword converter free?

Yes. Converting puzzles is completely free, with no account, sign-up, or software download required.

Which crossword formats can I convert?

You can convert between .puz (Across Lite), .jpz (Crossword Compiler) and .ipuz (the modern open standard). You can also import a crossword from a .pdf and export it to any of those formats.

Do I need to install anything?

No. The converter runs on the web — upload your file, pick a target format, and download the converted puzzle. It works on any device with a browser.

Is my puzzle file kept private?

Your file is processed only to perform the conversion and is never attached to an account, published, or shared. Uploads are temporary and cleared automatically.

What is the .ipuz format?

.ipuz is a modern, JSON-based open standard for crossword puzzles. It is lossless and supports advanced features like shaded cells, bars, and rebus entries, which makes it a great archival format.

What is the difference between .puz and .jpz?

.puz (Across Lite) is the classic binary format used by most major publications and solving apps, so it has the widest compatibility. .jpz (Crossword Compiler) is an XML-based format that supports richer grid features.

Will I lose anything when I convert?

Conversions between full-featured formats are lossless. If your puzzle uses a feature the target format cannot represent, the converter warns you first and lets you decide whether to continue.

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Some features may be lost

The target format does not support all features in this puzzle. The following will be lost or simplified: