Do I need Microsoft Word installed?
No. This tool uses mammoth.js, an open-source library that reads .docx files directly, combined with your browser's built-in print-to-PDF capability. You don't need Word, LibreOffice, or any desktop software.
What is a .docx file?
.docx is the default format for Microsoft Word documents (Word 2007 and later). It is a ZIP archive containing XML and media files. Most word processors, including Google Docs, LibreOffice, and Apple Pages, can export to .docx.
How to convert Word to PDF free
- Open the Word to PDF tool.
- Click Select file and choose your .docx file.
- Click Convert to PDF.
- Wait while the document is parsed and rendered.
- A preview of the converted document appears in an iframe.
- Click Save as PDF, your browser opens the print dialog.
- In the print dialog, set the Destination to Save as PDF (or "Microsoft Print to PDF" on Windows).
- Click Save.
Formatting fidelity: what to expect
The conversion preserves:
- Headings (H1, H2, H3)
- Bold and italic text
- Tables (basic layout)
- Images
Complex layouts may differ slightly from the original Word rendering:
- Exact line spacing and character spacing
- Custom fonts not available in the browser
- Advanced table styles
This is a browser-side limitation, not a bug. For pixel-perfect conversion, use Microsoft Word's built-in Export to PDF or a desktop tool like LibreOffice.
Privacy: where does my .docx go?
Nowhere. mammoth.js reads the file in your browser's memory. The file is never sent to any server.
What about .doc files (old Word format)?
Only .docx is supported. Convert your .doc file to .docx in Word (File → Save As → .docx) before using this tool.