Convert Excel to PDF

Sending a spreadsheet as a PDF stops people from changing numbers by accident and shows everyone the same layout, whatever software they have. This tool converts Excel files with LibreOffice on our server.

Which files work?

Excel workbooks (.xlsx, .xlsm and the older .xls) and OpenDocument spreadsheets (.ods). Formulas are shown as their calculated results; the PDF contains values, not formulas.

Why does my PDF have so many pages?

A spreadsheet has no fixed page, so the converter follows the print settings saved in the file: print area, orientation, scaling and page breaks. A wide sheet with no print settings will be cut into many narrow pages. Before converting, open the file in Excel and set the page layout: choose landscape, set scaling to fit all columns on one page, and define a print area if you only need part of the sheet. Save, then convert. The PDF will follow those settings.

Every sheet in the workbook that has content is included, one after another. Delete or hide sheets you do not want to send.

Will charts and formatting carry over?

Cell colours, borders, number formats, merged cells and most charts come through. Very new chart types or conditional formatting based on complex rules may render a little differently. Fonts not installed on our server are replaced by similar ones.

What happens to my upload?

Conversion happens on our server in Germany. The workbook is uploaded over an encrypted connection and both files are deleted automatically within two hours.

How big can the file be?

Workbooks up to 50 MB are free without an account, with 20 server jobs a day included, or 50 if you sign up for a free account; Pro takes up to 500 MB. Month-end reports for several clients can go in one batch; up to 5 files at once are free without an account.

How to convert Excel to PDF

1. Set the print area, orientation and scaling in Excel, then save.
2. Drop the .xlsx, .xls or .ods file onto the drop zone.
3. Click Convert to PDF.
4. Download the PDF and check the page breaks.