All Tools VerseChanging a CSV delimiter swaps the character that separates columns, most often switching between commas and tabs, which is the difference between a CSV and a TSV file. The choice matters because a value containing the delimiter can break the file. This guide explains delimiters, when to use a tab instead of a comma, and free tools to change the delimiter or convert between CSV and TSV.
In this guide
What a delimiter is
A delimiter is the character that marks where one column ends and the next begins. In a CSV it is a comma, but it can be a semicolon, a pipe, or a tab. The whole file is read by splitting each line on that character, so the delimiter has to be one that does not appear inside the data, or the values must be quoted. Our CSV and JSON tools guide covers the format more broadly.
CSV versus TSV
A TSV uses a tab between columns instead of a comma. Tabs rarely appear inside real data, so TSV avoids much of the quoting trouble that commas cause, which is why data with lots of commas, such as addresses or prices, is often stored as TSV. The trade is that tabs are invisible, so a TSV is harder to eyeball than a CSV.
Change the delimiter
If a file uses the wrong separator for the tool that will read it, you change the delimiter rather than rebuild the file. The change CSV delimiter tool swaps the separator across the whole file at once, handling quoting so values are not broken in the process.
Convert CSV and TSV
For the common comma-to-tab switch and back, the CSV to TSV converter and the TSV to CSV converter do the job directly. These are the tools to reach for when one program exports CSV but the next one expects TSV, or the reverse.
When to switch
Switch to TSV when your data is full of commas and the quoting is getting messy, or when a tool specifically wants tab-separated input. Switch to CSV when you need the most widely supported format, since almost everything reads CSV. A quick delimiter change is usually faster and safer than re-exporting from the source.
Free tools used in this guide
Frequently asked questions
What is a CSV delimiter?
The character that separates columns, usually a comma, though a semicolon, pipe, or tab can be used instead.
What is the difference between CSV and TSV?
A CSV separates columns with commas and a TSV with tabs. Tabs rarely appear in data, so TSV avoids much of the quoting trouble commas cause.
When should I use TSV instead of CSV?
When your data contains many commas and quoting gets messy, or when a tool specifically expects tab-separated input.
Why do values with the delimiter need quoting?
Because the file is split on the delimiter, so a value containing it would break into extra columns unless it is quoted.
Do the tools upload my file?
No. They process the file in your browser, so nothing is sent anywhere.