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Home / News / Print to PDF vs Save as PDF vs Export to PDF: How to Choose

Print to PDF vs Save as PDF vs Export to PDF: How to Choose

By Lena | Follow twitter | Updated on August 23, 2024
Introduction:
PDF is an accepted file format that is easy to share and edit online. There are different techniques for changing Word to PDF. It is always better to compare Print to PDF vs Save as PDF vs Export to PDF to select one. What's the difference between Print to PDF, Save as PDF, or Export as PDF? Check out the article to learn everything.
summary

Part 1. Meaning of Print to PDF/Save as PDF/Export to PDF

If you are still trying to decide between print to PDF, saving as PDF, or exporting to PDF, you must briefly compare the three methods to choose the best one. Check out the detailed description of each technique. Also, explore each method's functionality, pros, and cons to choose the right one.

# Print to PDF

Print to PDF is a commonly used option to create a PDF as a well-accepted output. The method uses a virtual printer to set the document to be readily printed in physical format. The feature uses the existing built-in printer application or browser to generate a readily printable PDF file. It creates a replica of how a document will appear once printed.

The process allows users to convert PDFs to printed documents. This method is equally beneficial as it lets users choose built-in paper sizes from A4 and A3. Users can also adjust the page size and orientation.

Print to PDF

pros

  • Is efficient in converting web pages and emails
  • Universally available in all operating system
  • It is a straightforward process
  • Supports fixed formatting layout

cons

  • It has a larger file size
  • Saves the documents with unwanted elements such as header, footers, and page numbers

# Save as PDF

If you wish to save a Word document as a PDF, you can do this within the application. Most Word or Excel programs automatically save files as PDFs, which is the easiest way to convert files into PDFs without much effort.

The feature is widely used when users wish to save a file as PDF without using an external application, virtual printers, or editors. It is perfect for saving files in PDF format while preserving their original layout. The method maintains the original copy of the file without altering or modifying the elements.

Save as PDF

pros

  • It keeps the original format
  • It lets you save metadata to documents
  • Includes options to set PDF properties and security settings

cons

  • Only a few applications support the Save As option
  • It does not allow the saving of dynamic or interactive elements in the document

# Export to PDF

Users may export files to PDF to change the document structure and settings before exporting them. This method is an additional feature of specific software and applications that allows you to add customized settings to an existing document before exporting it as a PDF.

The process supports an additional feature that allows users to enjoy greater control over final documents. However, the feature is available only in a few applications or image editing software. The efficient method also allows users to select the document quality.

Export to PDF

pros

  • Offers vast customization choices to choose quality
  • Let you enjoy enhanced control over exported documents
  • It is efficient in handling complex documents

cons

  • Lacks essential feature to add metadata
  • It doesn't allow you to change page size while exporting

Part 2. Print to PDF vs Save as PDF vs Export to PDF

The brief description of Print to PDF, Save as PDF, and Export to PDF is explained above. Users may compare the three methods briefly to select the best. Before choosing one, wisely understand the limitations and advantages of each method. The brief difference between Print to PDF, Save, and Export is explained below:

Feature/Aspect

Print to PDF

Save as PDF

Export to PDF

Purpose

Let you convert documents and webpage to printable formats.

Let you convert documents within the application.

Let you customize PDFs with advanced features.

Process

Create a printable copy using a virtual printer.

It lets you save the document as a PDF.

It enables you to export the document to PDF with additional settings.

Formatting Preservation

It enables you to export the document to PDF with additional settings.

Helps maintain formatting and layouts.

It helps retain complex formatting.

Customization

It does not support enhanced customization options.

Support basic customization options.

Supports extensive customization options such as quality layout and fonts.

Document Complexity

Perfect for simple and essential documents.

Perfect for all types of standard documents.

Perfect for handling complex documents.

Part 3. How to Convert Word to PDF in High Quality

You can print Word to PDF or save it as a PDF using an existing application. You may also choose to export it as PDF. However, it is always best to use an advanced PDF editor to convert Word to PDF.

The SwifDoo PDF is a practical PDF editor that helps convert Word to PDF without losing the original quality. It is a reliable editor that enables easy conversion to PDF and vice versa. The software also offers the capability to choose Word file resolutions.

Steps to Convert Office Document to PDF Using SwifDoo PDF:

Step 1: Download and install the SwifDoo PDF.

Step 2: Run the application. Next, select Office to PDF.

SwifDoo PDF Office to PDF

Step 3: Now add the file to convert using Add Files option. Select a destination.

Step 4: Click Start to convert Word to PDF without losing formatting.

SwifDoo PDF Convert Word to PDF

SwifDoo PDF also offers enhanced tools for editing and annotating documents. Users can trust this enhanced software to convert documents from any format to PDF without affecting the original layout and format.

The editor also supports capable OCR technology to quickly scan and convert complicated documents. The editor also provides enhanced features to merge, split, and compress files easily. Get the 7-day free trial to enjoy all advanced features!

Bottom Line

The article provides a descriptive guide on Print to PDF vs. Save as PDF vs. Export to PDF options. Compare and choose the best of the three. However, you may always switch to a better alternative. SwifDoo PDF is a fantastic tool for converting Word to PDF without restrictions. It ensures efficient conversion without sacrificing quality.

Print to PDF vs. Save as PDF vs. Export to PDF FAQs

Q:Is there a difference between print to PDF and save as PDF?

Yes, there is a difference between the print as PDF and save as PDF methods. The print-as-PDF method uses a virtual printer to print documents in PDF format, whereas the save-as-PDF method helps you save documents in PDF format. The save method helps keep the bookmarks, and the print method helps remove them.

Q:What is the purpose of Print to PDF?

The print-to-PDF process is perfect for printing emails, webpages, and Word files in PDF format. It helps print documents in the ideal format and layout, just like the print preview layout.

Q:Can I save it as a PDF instead of Print?

Yes, users may save the PDF file instead of printing it. Many applications let you save files as PDFs. To save Word as a PDF file, choose the "Save as PDF" option from the menu in the application.

Lena has been in the editing industry for 8 years. She is familiar with a variety of products that can make things easier, such as PDF tools, video recording software, iOS location changer, etc. She enjoys sharing her knowledge with users to help them solve problems in their work and life. In her spare time, she likes to play with her cat.

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