How to Convert Parquet to CSV Effectively? Top Ways Explained
When we talk about or deal with big data files or data sets, one of the widely used formats is the Parquet file format. However, to share the data across databases, we often need to convert Parquet to CSV or other file formats as per users requirements. With the help of this write-up, we will thoroughly learn about the best conversion method to ensure a secure and safe change Parquet to CSV process.
However, if we look at the bigger picture, not all of us are well acquainted with the Parquet file format. So, how about we start by understanding the format first, and then proceed with the process of conversion.
What are Parquet and CSV File Formats? Overview
When we talk about Parquet files, they can be defined as columnar data storage file format that helps users with efficient data processing. These file formats are majorly used in big data systems, like several cloud analytics platforms, Spark, etc. These file lormats generally store the data columnwise, instead of storing them row-by-row. Storing the data in a column-by-column format allows users to easily process data, reduce storage issues and further offer best compression.
On the other hand, when we talk about CSV file format, CSV stands for Comma Separated Values. It is a plain text file format that is used to store data in a row-by-row format. The CSV file format is one of the most commonly used file formats. This is one of the reasons that users look for ways for Parquet file convert to CSV format. We will now take a look at the common reasons for this conversion.
Common Reasons to Convert Parquet to CSV
Here are some of the common reasons that require the users to convert the files from .parquet format to .csv file format.
- As we all know the Parquet files are not accessible everywhere, across all platforms. Hence, it is important for the users to convert the files in a genenric format to efficiently share them across various platforms.
- Along with sharing the data with other users, the conversion also helps users with exporting data to different applications like Power BI or Tableu.
- For different tasks such as documentation or reporting. The CSV file format is comparatively easier to read and analyze than the .parquet file format.
For these reasons, it becomes crucial for the users to change Parquet to CSV and then proceed with the desired task. Let’s now move to the best ways that can help the users to effectively carry out the entire conversion process and continue their tasks accordingly.
Top Methods For Parquet File to CSV File Format Conversion
We will now take a look at the most efficient ways to convert .parquet files to .csv or any desired file format. Below are the methods that we will learn one by one for efficient conversion.
- With the help of Python
- Using Professional Utility
- With PyArrow
Let’s now begin with the first method to see how it helps the users with the conversion process.
Method 1: Convert Parquet to CSV Using Python
To convert the files that are not very large, using Python is a convenient way. Just run a few commands, and the data will be converted easily. Below are the commands that will help you with the conversion.
import pandas as pd
df = pd.read_parquet(“input.parquet”)
df.to_csv(“output.csv”, index=False)
Here is the explanation of how the command works:
- With the import pandas command, pandas reads the .parquet file.
- Next, the data is converted to a DataFrame.
- Lastly, the data is converted to the CSV format as required by the user.
By running the command in Python, users can efficiently convert the file and further use it as per their convenience. Moving to the next method, let’s see how it works.
Method 2: Using Professional Utility for Parquet to CSV File Format Conversion
There are several methods to convert the file into different file formats; however, using a professional solution for conversion allows users to carry out the process more safely. With tools like SysTools Parquet File Converter Software, users can easily convert Parquet to CSV without losing data integrity.
Here are the simple steps that allow users to convert the files efficiently.
- Install and run the suggested software. Click on Add Files to load .parquet files to the software.
- After the files are added, click on the Next Button.
- Next, choose the desired file format from the given export options.
- Add the destination path to save the resultant file to a specified location and click on Export button.
- View the report after .parquet file to .csv file conversion.
These are a few simple steps that will help the user to carry out file conversion in a simpler way. The tool is efficient and allows users to convert their .parquet files without compromising data integrity. Let’s now take a look at the next method to see how it will help users with the file conversion.
Method 3: Convert Parquet File Using PyArrow
This is another method to convert the .parquet file. Let’s take a look at the command and steps that will help with the conversion.
import pyarrow.csv as pv
import pyarrow.parquet as pq
table = pq.read_table(“input.parquet”)
pv.write_csv(table, “output.csv”)
These commands will help the users to effectively convert the data. Using PyArrow is much more efficient than the Python method, as it allows users to convert large datasets easily. On the other hand, Python deals with comparatively smaller datasets.
With the help of these methods, users can easily convert Parquet to CSV in a hassle free way. However, it is important for the users to carry out the conversion process while understanding the commands. Users who don’t belong to technical fields, might encounter various challenges while going through these methods. In such situations, the professional solution is much more secure and easy to use.
Conclusion
With the help of this technical write up, we have learnt thoroughly about convert Parquet to CSV file format. We have discussed the common reasons for the conversion and further the best ways that will allow users to effectively convert the files. So, if you have encountered a situation where you need to convert the Parquet files, you can follow up with the guide for desired results.