How to convert ESPs into ESLs using xEdit - SSE
⚪ Last updated 2020⚠️ Install Order · 5 steps
Install in this order, then this mod last — most mods fail to load without their framework and dependencies in place.
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🔍 Analysis
- 👍 7.3% endorsement rate — high engagement, a strong quality signal
- 🏆 #23 of 31 Modders Resources mods in this game by downloads
📋 About This Mod
How to convert ESPs into ESLs using xEdit
Step by step "How to Guide" with pictures.
Thanks to ElminsterAU and the xEdit team this is an incredibly easy, safe and fool proof way to convert many of your mods to ESL flagged files, this means it is now possible to have up to 253 "full" modules and 4096 "light" (ESL flagged) modules loaded at the same time.
This guide works for Fallout 4 and Skyrim Special Edition.
This is a detailed step by step guide anyone can use to simply set the ESL flag on an existing mod plugin to free up a load order slot, using this method of converting an ESP flagged file (game default) into an ESL flagged file has no effect on your save games and allows the most
compatibility as it leaves the file named as original so mods that use it as a master in any way will continue to function.
Fallout 4VR and SkyrimVR do not support ESL flagged files.
DISCLAIMER:
I do not claim any type of credit for the information I am sharing with you, my friend "JonathanOstrus" showed me how to do this, and I'm paying him back by paying it forward. (Credit goes to ElminsterAU and the xEdit team.)
100% of the Donation Points received from this guide go directly to the International Committee of the Red Cross.
I am not qualified to answer questions regarding the usage and features of xEdit beyond the information in this guide.
Version 2. 0 now in PDF
With this update, I (JonathanOstrus) rewrote part of the document to help with the flow a bit. As such, all of the stuff originally intended as advanced detail for Mod Author's to make their mods into ESL files has been removed at this time. The main use of this document is now targeted towards more novice users who just need to open up some load order slots. The reasoning for this is that the procedure required for the advanced use cases need to be done with deep understanding of the inner workings of each mod. This would typically be the Mod Author, and generally not the average mod user.
German Translation by ProfKnibble : Einfach ESP in ESL umwandeln - mit xEdit
Do you prefer working in the CK? Then check out JimmyRJumps tutorials:
Fallout4 Edition
Quick Conversion Of ESP To ESL Using The Creation Kit
Skyrim Special Editio
A guide for Skyrim Special Edition modders on converting plugins to ESL-flagged files using xEdit, freeing up plugin slots. With 1,468 endorsements and 20,097 downloads, it's a trusted resource for optimizing load orders.
✨ Key Features
📊 Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
- Community-approved guide with 1,468 endorsements
- Huge download count (20,097) shows it's a go-to resource
- Solves the plugin cap problem without breaking your game
⚠️ Cons
- Last updated in 2020, so it may not cover newer xEdit versions or game updates
- It's a guide, not an automated tool—you'll need to do the work yourself
- Potential compatibility risk if you convert mods that aren't truly ESL-safe, so follow carefully
For Skyrim SE modders who are hitting the 254 plugin limit and want to squeeze in more mods. This is perfect if you're comfortable with xEdit and want a reliable method to convert plugins. Skip if you're not into manual modding or prefer automated tools.
💡 Beginner Tips
- Make sure you have xEdit (SSEEdit) installed and are familiar with its interface before following the guide.
- Always test your converted mods in-game to ensure they load correctly, especially after converting multiple plugins.
- Keep a backup of your original mods in case you need to revert the conversion.
📊 Mod Details
- Game
- Skyrim Mods
- Author
- JonathanOstrus - Glass
- Version
- 4.0
- Downloads
- 20,097
- Endorsements
- 1,468
- Category
- Modders Resources
- Created
- 11/16/2018
- Updated
- 7/22/2020
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