How to Convert AI to PDF - A Step-by-Step Guide

If you have ever worked with design files, you have probably seen an AI file which stands for Adobe Illustrator. It is a go-to format for creating high-quality vector designs. While these files are ideal for design work, they are not necessarily the most convenient to share. They require certain software to open and not everyone has access to Illustrator.

So, converting AI files to PDF can help with this. PDFs are super easy to share and can be opened on pretty much any device. When you convert AI to PDF, you keep all the design’s quality but now anyone can open it even without even fancy design software.

For example, you’ve created an awesome logo or flyer in Illustrator. Now, you need to send it to someone without Illustrator (like a client or a friend), converting it to a PDF is the perfect move. They’ll be able to see it on their phone, computer, or even print it without any issues.

In this post, we'll show you the simplest techniques to convert AI to PDF while maintaining excellent quality. Whether you're submitting a project to a customer or a designer using vector art services, we have solutions for you such as manual conversions, web tools, and desktop software.

Read on to get step-by-step instructions for each.

Why Convert AI to PDF?

Some reasons why you might need this conversion include:

• Any Device, Any Time: PDF files can be viewed on almost any device with PDF software.
• Preserved Quality: Colors, fonts, and details from your AI files remain intact in the PDF format.
• Easy sharing: PDFs are easy to share and can be compressed for quicker transfers.

Method 1: Manual Conversion

You can easily convert AI files to PDFs without needing any extra tools. Surprised? Don’t be!

Just follow these steps:

Steps:
• 1. First, go to the folder that contains the AI File.
• 2. Then, click the "View" tab at the top of the window and choose "File Name Extensions" to make sure file extensions are visible.
• 3. Now, Right-click the AI file and choose “Rename.” Change the extension from .ai to .pdf.
• 4. Then, confirm the change by clicking “Yes” on the notification asking for confirmation of renaming.
• 5. Once renamed, open the new PDF file with your PDF viewer to ensure the conversion works.

Pros:
• No third-party software needed: A quick and easy method if you’re in a pinch.
• Fast: Conversion happens in seconds.

Cons:
• Basic functionality: The file may not retain all design elements.
• Not a true PDF: The renamed file might have limited capabilities compared to a PDF converted via dedicated software.

Method 2: Using Free Online AI to PDF Converters

If you prefer a more reliable method, online converters like a PDF to AI converter, are an excellent choice.

These are quick, easy to use, and often free.

Below are two popular online converters:

1. Convertio

Convertio is a really useful site that can handle just about any file type you throw at it, be it AI file to PDF, or you want to convert CDR to AI, convert JPG to AI, or even convert AI to PNG.

Let's try turning an AI file into a PDF using it!

Steps:
1. Visit the Convertio website and go to the AI-to-PDF conversion page.
2. Now, upload your AI file.
3. Choose "PDF"from the drop-down menu under the "To" option.
4. Then, Press "Convert"
5. Once done, download the PDF to your device.

Pros:
• Handles all sorts of files: Perfect if you’re working with different formats.
• Simple to use: Even if you're not tech-savvy, you'll get the hang of it quickly.

Cons:
• There's a limit: You can only convert a certain amount of files and their size is limited if you're using the free version.
• Be careful: Uploading important files online might not be the best idea.

2. Zamzar

Zamzar is another awesome website for changing file types, whether you're working with images, documents, or even specialized formats like EMB files for embroidery. It supports a ton of different formats!

Let's see how to turn an AI into a PDF using it.

Steps:
• Head over to Zamzar website and select the AI-to-PDF option.
• Then, Click "Choose" Files to upload your AI file.
• From the drop-down, choose “PDF” as your output format.
• Press "Convert Now" and wait.
• Now, Download the PDF file once the conversion finishes.

Pros:
• Versatile Supports a wide range of file types.
• Batch Conversion: Allows multiple file conversions after signing up.

Cons:
• Security risks As with any online tool, uploading sensitive data comes with potential risks.

Feature	Convertio	Zamzar
Supported Formats	Over 300 file formats	Over 1,000 file formats
Free Version Limitations	Limited file size and conversions per day	Unlimited conversions after signing up
OCR Support	Yes	No
User Interface	Ad-free, simple interface	Easy to use, but free version contains ads
Security Concerns	Minimal, but always a risk with online uploads	Can raise security concerns for sensitive files
Batch Conversion	No	No

Method 3: Using Desktop Software

For those who need frequent AI to PDF conversions or more control over the output, desktop software is the best option.

Let’s explore two robust desktop tools for converting AI files.

1. PDFelement

PDFelement is a powerful tool for converting, editing, and managing PDFs.

It’s special feature: batch processing (you can convert multiple AI files at once).

Steps:

1. Install the software from their official website.

2. Launch PDFelement and import your AI file by clicking on the "From File" option. PDFelement automatically converts the AI file to a PDF.

3. Click on "File," select "Save As," and save the converted PDF.

Pros:

• Batch conversion: Ideal for handling large volumes of files.
• Advanced tools:Allows you to edit, annotate, and manage PDFs.

Cons:

• Paid tool: After the trial period, you’ll need to purchase a subscription.

2. Adobe Acrobat

Adobe Acrobat works well with AI files, making it easy to convert and edit them.

Steps:

1. Download and install Adobe Acrobat.

2. Open the program, click "Create," and upload your file.

3. Once the conversion is complete, save the file as a PDF by selecting "Save As."

Pros:

• Advanced features: Offers in-depth editing options.
• Batch conversion: Allows for multiple files to be processed simultaneously.

Cons:

• Complex interface: Beginners may find it overwhelming.

Comparison of Desktop AI to PDF Converters

Feature	PDFelement	Adobe Acrobat
Platforms Supported	Windows, Mac, Mobile	Windows, Mac, Mobile

Batch Conversion	Yes	Yes
OCR Feature	Yes	Yes
PDF Editing	Basic editing features	Full PDF editing capabilities
Pricing	Free trial, then paid	Subscription-based, with a free trial
Ease of Use	Simple interface	Slightly more complex for beginners

Method 4: Mobile Solutions for AI to PDF Conversion

In a world where everything is mobile, converting AI files on the go is a valuable option. Here are two mobile apps that make this process quick and easy.

1. Illustrator File Viewer

This app is designed to handle AI files on mobile devices and convert them to PDFs.

Steps:

1. Install Illustrator File Viewer from your app store.

2. Select the AI file you want to convert.

3. Tap the “Save As” option and select PDF as the output format.

Pros:

• Mobile-friendly:Easy to use on the go.
• File management: Organizes and displays all your AI files.

Cons:

• Intrusive ads Free version has many ads.

2. AI PSD EPS Viewer & Converter

This versatile mobile app allows you to convert AI files to PDFs as well as other image formats.

Steps:

1. Download it from the app store.

2. Upload the AI file via the “Select File” option.

3. Choose PDF as the format and save the file to your device.

Pros:

• Multiple formats:Supports converting to JPG and PNG as well.
• Language support:Available in several languages.

Cons:

• App stability issues: Users report occasional crashes.

Best Practices for AI to PDF Conversion

While these methods are reliable, following these best practices ensures you get the best results:

• Optimize your AI files:Embed fonts and use a vector image converterto turn vector graphics into outlines before converting to prevent compatibility issues.
• Choose high resolution: Ensure that your chosen method allows for high-quality output.
• Batch processing: Go for batch conversion softwares in case of multiple files.

Conclusion

Okay, that concludes our tutorial on how to convert AI files to PDFs. It is a simple but effective approach for sharing your creations with anybody, anywhere. We have discussed a few distinct approaches, each with its own set of benefits and cons. Whether you’re working with AI files or using a digitize embroidery service , take a look back and select the approach that works best for you, and you'll be ready to send, share, or print your drawings with ease.

take a look back and select the approach that works best for you, and you'll be ready to send, share, or print your drawings with ease.