How to Convert Excel to PDF
Whether it’s a detailed Excel workbook or a simple spreadsheet, converting your Excel file to a PDF ensures it looks professional and stays consistent across devices. PDFs are easy to share, secure, and perfect for preserving the formatting of your Excel spreadsheets. If you’ve ever wondered how to convert Excel to PDF seamlessly, you’re in the right place.
This guide walks you through practical methods to create a PDF file from Excel. We’ll start with pdfFiller, a versatile online tool designed to simplify document management. Then, we’ll explore the available options for Windows and Mac users. By the end, you’ll have all the tools you need to convert Excel files into polished PDF documents.
Why Convert Excel to PDF?
Converting an Excel sheet to PDF offers several advantages. For one, it ensures universal access—anyone can open a PDF file without needing Microsoft Excel. It also locks in your formatting, so your tables, fonts, and data stay exactly as you designed them. Plus, PDFs can be password-protected for added security, making them ideal for sensitive Excel worksheets. Whether you’re emailing a report or archiving an Excel document, the PDF format delivers reliability and professionalism.
How to Convert Excel to PDF Using pdfFiller
pdfFiller is an online platform that makes converting Excel to PDF quick and efficient. Beyond basic conversion, it offers editing, signing, and cloud storage features—perfect for users managing multiple files. Here’s how to convert your .xls or .xlsx file into a PDF using pdfFiller:
- Visit pdfFiller Online: Head to pdfFiller’s website and log in. New users can sign up for a free trial.
- Upload Your Excel File: Click "Upload Document" and select your Excel spreadsheet from your desktop or cloud storage.
- Convert to PDF: Once uploaded, click "Save As", then choose "PDF" from the options. pdfFiller handles the conversion instantly.
- Download the New PDF File: After conversion, hit "Download" to save your PDF document to your device.
The process is straightforward, and you’ll have a converted PDF in moments. What sets pdfFiller apart is its flexibility—it works with xls and xlsx files, and you can edit the resulting PDF online.
Extra Features of pdfFiller
pdfFiller isn’t just a PDF converter. You can tweak your PDF by adding text, images, or signatures. Need to collaborate? Share the file directly from the platform. It’s a robust solution for anyone looking to optimize their workflow with Excel to PDF conversions.
How to Convert Excel Files to PDF on Windows
Windows users with Microsoft Excel can convert Excel files to PDF for free using built-in features. This method is simple and leverages software you likely already have. Follow these steps to export your Excel workbook to PDF:
1. Open Your Excel Document: Launch Microsoft Excel and load your .xls or .xlsx file.
2. Navigate to Export: Click File in the top-left corner, then select Export.
3. Select PDF/XPS: Choose Create PDF/XPS Document, then click Create PDF/XPS.
4. Customize Settings: A dialog box appears. Here, you can:
- Convert all sheets in the workbook or just the active Excel sheet.
- Define the print area to focus on specific data.
- Optimize the file size for sharing or printing.
5. Save the PDF: Name your file, pick a save location, and click Publish.
Your Excel spreadsheet is now a PDF file, ready to distribute. This approach ensures your formatting stays intact without extra tools.
Helpful Tips for Windows
If you’re converting an entire Excel workbook, make sure to select "Entire Workbook" in the settings. For large spreadsheets, adjust the page layout to fit everything neatly. Note that this method requires a licensed version of Microsoft Excel—if you don’t have it, pdfFiller’s online converter is a great alternative.
How to Convert Excel to PDF on Mac
Mac users have a free, built-in way to turn Excel files into PDFs using the system’s print feature. It’s simple and works with any printable document. Here’s how to save your Excel worksheet as a PDF on macOS:
1. Open Your Excel File: Load your .xls or .xlsx file in Microsoft Excel or a compatible app.
2. Access the Print Menu: Go to File > Print from the top menu.
3. Save as PDF: In the print dialog, click the PDF dropdown at the bottom-left and select Save as PDF.
4. Finalize the File: Name your PDF, choose where to save it, and click Save.
That’s all it takes. Your Excel document is now a PDF, with all formatting preserved.
Mac-Specific Advice
To include all sheets in your Excel workbook, set the print range to "All Sheets" before saving. If your data doesn’t fit the page, tweak the scale settings in the print dialog. This method’s simplicity makes it a go-to for quick PDF conversions on Mac.
Excel to PDF Conversion: What Works Best?
Each method has its strengths. Here’s a breakdown to help you decide which works best for your needs:
1. pdfFiller:
- Pros: Accessible online from any device; supports editing and secure sharing; converts xlsx and xls files effortlessly.
- Cons: Requires an internet connection; advanced features may need a subscription post-trial.
2. Windows Built-in Tools:
- Pros: Free with Microsoft Excel; no extra software needed; reliable for desktop users.
- Cons: Limited to Windows; requires a licensed Excel version.
3. Mac Built-in Tools:
- Pros: Free and native to macOS; works with any printable file; easy to use.
- Cons: Mac-only; lacks advanced editing options.
For one-off conversions, the built-in tools on Windows or Mac are solid choices. But if you need a PDF converter with more power—like editing or cloud access—pdfFiller stands out.
Final Thoughts
Converting Excel to PDF is a practical skill that enhances how you share and protect your data. With pdfFiller, you get a fast, online solution that goes beyond conversion, offering tools to edit and manage your PDFs. Alternatively, the free built-in options on Windows and Mac provide simple, no-cost ways to create PDF files from your Excel spreadsheets.
No matter your preference, you’re now equipped to handle Excel to PDF conversions with ease. Looking for a tool that does it all? pdfFiller combines conversion, editing, and security in one platform. Start your free trial with pdfFiller today and see how it can transform your document management.
FAQs
1. How Do I Convert my Excel Spreadsheet to a PDF?
You’ve got options. With pdfFiller, upload your Excel file online, select "Save As PDF", and download the result. On Windows, open your spreadsheet in Microsoft Excel, go to File > Export > Create PDF/XPS, and save. For Mac, use File > Print, then choose Save as PDF from the dropdown. All methods create a polished PDF quickly.
2. How to Save an Entire Excel Workbook as a PDF?
To save all sheets in your workbook:
- pdfFiller: Upload the workbook, and it converts everything automatically.
- Windows: In Excel, go to File > Export, select Create PDF/XPS, and choose "Entire Workbook".
- Mac: In the print dialog, set the range to "All Sheets", then save as PDF.
3. How Do You Create a PDF File from Excel?
It’s simple. Use pdfFiller by uploading your Excel file and saving it as a PDF online. On Windows, open Excel, head to File > Export > Create PDF/XPS, and save. On Mac, go to File > Print, then select Save as PDF. Each method delivers a clean PDF file from your Excel data.
4. How Do I Convert Excel to PDF Fit to Page?
To fit your content to the page:
- pdfFiller: Convert your file, then use the editing tools to adjust the layout.
- Windows: In Excel’s export settings, tweak the scaling to fit the page before saving.
- Mac: Adjust the scale in the print dialog before selecting Save as PDF.
These steps ensure your PDF looks great, no matter the spreadsheet size.