How to convert Excel to PDF
- Select your spreadsheet or drop it onto the page.
- Choose the conversion mode: in your browser (private, simple table layout) or on the server (keeps page setup and styling), when available.
- Adjust the available options, such as page orientation, then click convert.
- Download the PDF.
Browser mode: private and fast
In browser mode the workbook is read on your device and the cell values of each sheet are drawn into the PDF as clean, readable tables with real, searchable text. It is ideal for sharing price lists, schedules, sign-up sheets and data exports. Cells show the values saved in the file; formulas are not recalculated, and advanced formatting such as charts, conditional colours, merged-cell layouts, print areas and page breaks set in Excel is simplified. Wide sheets are best printed in landscape.
Excel to PDF is the simplest way to share a spreadsheet that people should read but not edit.
Server mode: full fidelity
Where the conversion server is enabled, you can choose to upload the workbook over HTTPS for conversion with LibreOffice, which honours page setup, print areas, fonts, cell styles and charts much more closely. The file is deleted from the server immediately after conversion and is never stored or shared. Server mode is only used when you select it.
Tips for printable spreadsheets
- Delete or hide columns you don't want readers to see before converting.
- Keep headers in the first row so tables are easy to follow across pages.
- Save the file in Excel after editing so the latest calculated values are stored.
- To pull tables out of a PDF into a spreadsheet, use PDF to Excel.
Frequently asked questions
Is my spreadsheet uploaded?
Only in server mode, which you choose explicitly. In browser mode everything happens on your device.
Why do some formula cells look empty or outdated?
Browser mode shows the values stored in the file. If the file was created by software that doesn't save calculated results, open and save it in Excel or LibreOffice first.
Are charts included?
Browser mode converts cell data only. Use server mode, when available, for charts and full styling.
Are all sheets converted?
Each sheet in the workbook is included in the PDF.
Which file types are supported?
Modern .xlsx workbooks work in both modes. Other spreadsheet formats may be accepted depending on the mode; the tool tells you if a file can't be read.