A Word file can look different on every computer, depending on the version of Word and the fonts installed. A PDF fixes the layout, so the person you send it to sees what you saw. This tool converts Word documents with LibreOffice on our server.
Which files can I convert?
Modern Word files (.docx), older Word files (.doc), OpenDocument text (.odt) and Rich Text Format (.rtf). Headers, footers, tables, images, page numbers and footnotes all carry over.
Will it look exactly like it does in Word?
Usually very close. The main source of differences is fonts. If your document uses a font that is not installed on our server, a metrically compatible substitute is used, so line breaks and page count normally stay the same, but the letter shapes can differ. Common fonts such as Arial and Times New Roman convert cleanly. For documents with unusual brand fonts, embedding the fonts in Word before you save (File, Options, Save, embed fonts) gives the best result.
Very complex layouts with floating text boxes or SmartArt can move slightly. Check the first and last page of the PDF before you send it.
Is it private?
The conversion runs on our server in Germany. Your document is uploaded over an encrypted connection and deleted with the PDF automatically within two hours.
Is it free?
Yes. Documents up to 50 MB are free without an account, within the free daily allowance of 20 jobs. Pro raises the size to 500 MB and removes the cap. Most documents convert in a few seconds. If you have a folder of letters or invoices to turn into PDFs, the pipeline builder converts them all in one run and can compress the PDFs afterwards; you can try it on up to 3 files for free.
How to convert Word to PDF
- Drop your .docx, .doc, .odt or .rtf file onto the drop zone.
- Click Convert to PDF.
- Download the PDF and check that the layout looks right.
FAQ
Do I need Microsoft Word installed?
No. The conversion runs on our server with LibreOffice.
Are comments and tracked changes included?
They appear as they are shown in the document. Accept or hide them in Word before converting if you do not want them in the PDF.
Will hyperlinks still work in the PDF?
Yes. Links in the document stay clickable in the PDF.
Can I convert a password-protected Word file?
No. Remove the password in Word first.
Can I turn the PDF back into Word later?
Yes, with PDF to Word, though the round trip is never perfect. Keep your original .docx.