PDF Tools
How to Convert Word to PDF
You have a .docx file. You need a PDF. Here are all the free ways to do it — browser, Word, Mac, Windows, and phone — without paying for anything.
All free methods at a glance
Why convert Word to PDF at all?
Word documents (.docx) can look different depending on what software the reader has. If they’re using a different version of Word, or a different app entirely, fonts may substitute, spacing may shift, and tables may break. PDFs display identically on every device — the layout is locked in.
The other common reason: the recipient asked for a PDF. Job applications, contracts, academic submissions, and most form uploads require PDF specifically. Converting from Word takes under a minute with any of the methods above.
Which method gives the best formatting?
Microsoft Word’s built-in Save as PDF gives the best results for complex documents with custom fonts, precise layouts, charts, or images. It converts exactly what Word renders on screen.
For straightforward documents — a CV, a letter, a report with standard formatting — a browser-based converter works perfectly and takes the same amount of time.
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Word to PDF →Frequently asked questions
How do I convert a Word document to PDF for free?
The fastest free method is a browser-based converter — upload your .docx file, preview the content, and download the PDF. No software installation needed. If you have Microsoft Word, go to File → Save As → PDF. On Mac, open the file and use File → Print → PDF. On Linux, LibreOffice Writer can export to PDF for free.
Can I convert Word to PDF without Microsoft Word?
Yes. A browser-based Word to PDF converter works without Word installed. You can also use LibreOffice Writer, which is a free, open-source alternative to Word that supports .docx files and can export to PDF. Google Docs also lets you upload a .docx and download it as PDF for free.
How do I convert Word to PDF on a Mac?
On Mac, open your Word document in Microsoft Word, then go to File → Save As and choose PDF from the format dropdown. Alternatively, use File → Print, click the PDF dropdown in the bottom-left corner, and select Save as PDF. If you don't have Word, open the document in Pages (the built-in Mac app) and export to PDF from the File menu.
How do I convert Word to PDF on Windows?
In Microsoft Word on Windows, go to File → Save As → Browse → select PDF from the file type dropdown. Or use File → Export → Create PDF/XPS. Without Word, use LibreOffice Writer (free) or a browser-based converter. Windows 10 and 11 also include Microsoft Print to PDF — open the document in any app and print it, selecting Microsoft Print to PDF as the printer.
How do I convert Word to PDF on my phone?
On iPhone, open the .docx file in the Files app or Word app, tap Share, then Print. On the print preview screen, pinch-out on the preview image to open it as a PDF, then tap the Share icon to save it. On Android with Word installed, use File → Print → Save as PDF. A browser-based converter also works on any mobile browser.
Does converting Word to PDF change the formatting?
Converting in Microsoft Word or LibreOffice preserves formatting accurately. Browser-based tools using mammoth.js extract the main content and apply clean formatting, so simple documents convert well. Complex layouts with custom fonts, precise positioning, or embedded objects may look slightly different. For pixel-perfect results, use Microsoft Word's built-in Save as PDF.