Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
For a jQuery app that already uses DataTables, its Buttons extension is the clearest-documented way to add Excel, CSV, PDF, copy, and print controls. For a plain HTML table, options include jquery-table2excel and TableExport, but check whether they produce a real XLSX workbook, what dependencies they require, and whether their maintenance status suits your project. A jQuery call does not always mean a tool is a jQuery plugin.
What “Excel export” can mean
Before choosing a tool, decide what file your users actually need. XLSX is Excel’s modern workbook format. XLS is a legacy format, and some table exporters use Excel-readable HTML or other compatibility workarounds rather than generating a standards-native workbook. A filename ending in .xls alone does not establish that the contents are a native XLS workbook.
Also separate exporting table values from building a spreadsheet. A basic exporter may put raw cell data into a workbook without retaining colors or other formatting. If users need formulas, cell types, layout, or transformations, a lower-level workbook library may be a better fit than a drop-in table plugin.
At a glance: which tools fit?
| Tool | What it is | Best-supported fit | Dependencies and cautions |
|---|---|---|---|
| DataTables Buttons | Extension for DataTables | Add export and print actions to an existing DataTable. | The XLSX button requires Buttons and JSZip; default export does not retain formatting such as colors. DataTables excelHtml5 reference |
| jquery-table2excel | Direct jQuery table-export plugin | Call an export method on an HTML table and configure options such as exclusions and worksheet name. | The maintainer warns that the legacy XLS method is a hack and that maintenance has lapsed. Check the current XLSX path and repository activity. Project README |
| TableExport (hhurz) | jQuery plugin | Export to several formats, including JSON, XML, CSV, TSV, text, SQL, Word, Excel, PNG, and PDF, according to project documentation. | XLSX uses SheetJS and client-side saving uses FileSaver; other formats have additional dependencies. Project README |
| TableExport (clarketm) | Table-export library with jQuery invocation | Export HTML tables to XLSX, XLS, CSV, and text. | FileSaver is required; XLSX uses SheetJS. The surfaced project result dates to about five years before the research timestamp, so check current maintenance and compatibility. Project documentation |
| H5table2excel | jQuery project | The README describes multi-sheet export and common styles. | The project dates to 2021 and says it is based on jquery-table2excel. Verify releases, browser behavior, and format fidelity. Project README |
| SheetJS | Spreadsheet library, not a jQuery plugin | Build a custom export flow with control over table parsing and workbook generation. | Your application must connect the table to the library and implement the export interaction. Documentation |
| Microsoft Open in Excel | Microsoft-supported JavaScript library, not a jQuery plugin | Broader web-to-Excel workflows, including structured workbooks from HTML tables or JSON. | Not a drop-in jQuery table-export plugin. Microsoft documentation |
| rusty1s/table2excel | Vanilla JavaScript tool | The project advertises HTML-table export to XLSX. | Not a jQuery plugin; it names SheetJS as a dependency. Project README |
For an existing DataTable: DataTables Buttons
DataTables documents Buttons as a way to add copy, XLSX, CSV, PDF, and print actions. Its excelHtml5 button creates and saves an XLSX file in the browser, and requires the Buttons extension and JSZip. The generated workbook is intentionally simple: it exports raw data and does not retain formatting such as colors by default. See the official file-export examples and the excelHtml5 reference.
#1 Best Overall
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
Use the documented excelHtml5 route when you specifically want XLSX output. The button alias and its availability can depend on the extensions and environment in your application, so check the current DataTables documentation for your setup rather than assuming every export option works everywhere. Export options can also control what table data is included, such as limiting an export to the current page.
If the built-in workbook is too plain, DataTables points to a custom button using SheetJS. That moves the work from configuring a ready-made export action to writing application code, but it gives you a route to more control over workbook generation.
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
For a plain HTML table: direct jQuery exporters
jquery-table2excel: straightforward call, significant caveat
The project README documents a call such as $('#yourHtmlTable').table2excel(...), with options for a file name, worksheet name, excluded elements, and format-related behavior. Its XLSX borders option requires JSZip. The same README contains an unusually direct warning: “This plugin is a hack on a hack.” The maintainer says maintenance has lapsed and describes the legacy XLS method as a compatibility workaround with inconsistent browser support. That is a reason to verify the exact output path you intend to use, not evidence that every current XLSX path is broken. Read the project README.
TableExport by hhurz: breadth across formats
The hhurz plugin is documented for a wide range of output types, from CSV and TSV to Excel, Word, PNG, and PDF. That breadth can be useful when one table needs multiple export choices, but each format can add dependencies. Its documentation identifies SheetJS for XLSX and FileSaver for client-side downloads; review the current dependency set and include only the formats your application needs. Check the project documentation.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
Rank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
TableExport by clarketm: jQuery invocation is not the whole story
This project documents calls such as $('table').tableExport() and exports to XLSX, XLS, CSV, and text. It requires FileSaver, with SheetJS as an add-on for XLSX. Since a jQuery-style invocation does not by itself establish that a package is a traditional jQuery plugin, treat it as a table-export library with jQuery integration. Its surfaced project result dates to about five years before the research timestamp; check current releases and compatibility before adopting it. See its documentation.
Other candidates—and what they are not
H5table2excel
H5table2excel’s README describes multi-sheet export and common-style support for HTML tables. It also says the project is based on jquery-table2excel v1.1.2. The project information dates to 2021, so treat those as documented features rather than proof of current support or of how faithfully a particular workbook will render. Review the project.
Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
SheetJS for custom workbook generation
SheetJS is a spreadsheet library rather than a jQuery widget. Its documentation covers reading HTML tables and writing workbooks, making it a building block when you need to control data transformation or workbook contents. Your code must handle the integration with the page and the export action. Read the SheetJS documentation.
Microsoft Open in Excel
Microsoft’s Open in Excel JavaScript library is a broader web-application integration, not a jQuery table-export plugin. Microsoft documents converting HTML tables or JSON into structured Excel tables with formatting, formulas, and data types. Consider it when the goal is a richer Excel workflow rather than simply adding an export button to a jQuery table. Read Microsoft’s documentation.
Outdated Drivers Are Slowing You Down
One free scan finds every outdated or missing driver and matches the right update for your exact hardware.Free scan · exact hardware matchWindows Errors? Fix Them Before They Spread
Repair common Windows errors and clear accumulated junk for a smoother, more stable PC - no reinstall needed.Free scan · no reinstallBest Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
rusty1s/table2excel
This project describes itself as a vanilla JavaScript tool for exporting HTML tables to XLSX and names SheetJS as a dependency. It may be relevant if jQuery is not a requirement, but it should not be counted as a jQuery plugin. See the project README.
Quick Recap
How to choose and validate an exporter
- Start with your table implementation. If the page already uses DataTables, evaluate Buttons first. If it is a plain HTML table, compare direct exporters or use a spreadsheet library for a custom flow.
- Name the required format. Decide whether users need a genuine XLSX workbook, a legacy XLS-compatible output, or a simpler Excel-readable export. Do not infer workbook format from a button label or file extension alone.
- List the required content. Check whether exports should include all rows or just the current page, selected columns or excluded elements, and headers or footers. Confirm each behavior in the chosen tool’s current documentation.
- Decide how much formatting and transformation you need. Raw cell values may be sufficient for a data handoff. For formulas, formatting, or structured transformations, plan for a custom workbook-generation route such as SheetJS or the broader Microsoft library.
- Review dependencies and compatibility. Confirm the versions and dependencies for the output formats you enable, and verify behavior in the browsers and Excel environments your users support.
- Test representative data. Open exported files in the target spreadsheet software and inspect dates, numbers, special characters, empty cells, long values, and any excluded rows or columns. Documentation describes intended behavior; it does not establish how your particular table and data will export.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Calling every option a jQuery plugin. Some are DataTables extensions, libraries with jQuery invocation, vanilla JavaScript tools, or broader spreadsheet APIs.
- Assuming Excel-readable means native XLS or XLSX. Check the actual output format and inspect the resulting workbook.
- Expecting visual formatting to transfer automatically. DataTables’ built-in XLSX output preserves raw data, not rich formatting such as colors by default.
- Ignoring maintenance signals. A README can describe useful features while also warning of lapsed maintenance or inconsistent browser support. Check current releases and test the path you will ship.
- Adding every optional export format. Multi-format projects may bring additional dependencies; enable only the formats your application uses.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
