Converting Excel files to PDF is essential for sharing reports, invoices, and financial statements while preserving formatting and security. Whether you're a business professional, student, or casual user, having the right tool makes the process seamless.
In this guide, we’ll explore the 5 best Excel to PDF converters, including free online tools, desktop software, and built-in solutions—helping you choose the best option for your needs.
Why Convert Excel to PDF?
Before diving into the tools, let’s understand why converting Excel to PDF is beneficial:
✅ Preserves Formatting – Ensures tables, charts, and formulas appear correctly on any device.
✅ Enhanced Security – Password-protect sensitive data from editing.
✅ Universal Compatibility – PDFs open on all devices without Excel installed.
✅ Professional Look – Ideal for official reports and presentations.
Now, let’s explore the best Excel to PDF converters.
1. Adobe Acrobat (Best Overall)
Adobe Acrobat is the most professional PDF converter, offering high-quality output and advanced editing features.
Key Features:
✔ Converts Excel, Word, PPT, and more to PDF
✔ Retains hyperlinks, formulas, and formatting
✔ OCR (text recognition) for scanned sheets
✔ Password protection and e-signatures
How to Convert Excel to PDF:
Open Adobe Acrobat DC.
Click Tools > Create PDF.
Select your Excel file and click Open.
Adjust settings (e.g., page range, layout).
Save as a PDF.
Pricing: Free trial | $14.99/month (Pro)
✅ Best for: Businesses needing high-quality, secure PDFs.
2. Microsoft Excel (Built-in Solution)
If you have Microsoft 365 or Excel installed, you can save files as PDF without extra tools.
Key Features:
✔ Free for Excel users
✔ Preserves formulas and charts
✔ Customizable print areas
How to Convert in Excel:
Open your Excel file.
Click File > Save As.
Choose PDF from the dropdown menu.
Select Standard (online publishing) or Minimum size (web).
Click Save.
Pricing: Free with Microsoft 365
✅ Best for: Windows/Mac users with Excel.
3. Fast Pdf Hub (Best Free Online Tool)
Fast Pdf Hub is a user-friendly online converter that works directly in your browser.
Key Features:
✔ Free Excel to PDF conversion
✔ Drag-and-drop interface
✔ Cloud storage integration (Google Drive, Dropbox)
How to Use Fast Pdf Hub:
Go to fastpdfhub.com.
Upload your Excel file.
Click Convert to PDF.
Download or share the file.
Pricing: Free
✅ Best for: Quick online conversions without software.
4. Foxit PDF Editor (Best Adobe Alternative)
Foxit is a lightweight desktop PDF editor with Excel conversion support.
Key Features:
✔ Converts Excel to PDF in one click
✔ Edit, annotate, and compress PDFs
✔ Batch conversion for multiple files
How to Use Foxit:
Install Foxit PDF Editor.
Click File > Create > From File.
Select your Excel sheet and convert.
Pricing: Free trial | $14.99/month
✅ Best for: Users needing a budget-friendly Adobe alternative.
5. Google Drive (Cloud-Based Solution)
Convert Excel to PDF without installing software using Google Sheets.
Key Features:
✔ Free and accessible from any device
✔ Real-time collaboration
How to Use Google Drive:
Upload your Excel file to Google Drive.
Right-click the file > Open with > Google Sheets.
Click File > Download > PDF (.pdf).
Pricing: Free
✅ Best for: Teams working remotely.
Final Verdict: Which Tool Should You Use?
Best for Businesses: Adobe Acrobat
Best Free Built-in Tool: Microsoft Excel
Best Online Converter: Fast Pdf Hub
Best Budget Desktop Tool: Foxit
Best for Teams: Google Drive
FAQ: Excel to PDF Conversion
1. Does converting Excel to PDF keep formulas?
PDFs display formula results but don’t retain editable formulas.
2. Can I password-protect an Excel-turned-PDF?
Yes! Use Adobe Acrobat or Foxit to add passwords.
3. How do I convert multiple Excel sheets to one PDF?
Adobe Acrobat: Merge files under Tools > Combine Files.
Fast Pdf Hub : Use the "Merge PDF" tool after converting sheets.
4. Why does my PDF look blurry?
Adjust Excel’s "Save As PDF" settings to "Standard" quality.
Conclusion
Converting Excel to PDF is simple with the right tools. Whether you need:
✔ High-security PDFs → Adobe Acrobat
✔ Free built-in conversion → Microsoft Excel
✔ Quick online tools → Fast Pdf Hub
Now you can share professional, print-ready PDFs in minutes! 🚀