11 Best Convert XLS to PDF Tools (2024) [FREE DOWNLOAD]

1. Introduction

1.1 Importance of Convert XLS To PDF tool

In the digital age, file formatting and conversion tools are no longer a luxury but a necessity. One common requirement that users often come across is converting XLS (Excel) files to PDF format. With XLS being a prominent and widely accepted format for storing and managing data, and PDF serving as a reliable and universally readable format, it’s critical for professionals and students alike to have access to tools that can convert XLS to PDF accurately and quickly.

These tools transform Excel spreadsheets in a way that preserves the original formatting, tables, and charts, addressing the concern of compatibility issues across different versions of MS Excel. Converting XLS files to PDF also adds an extra layer of security, as PDF files are harder to alter illicitly. As PDFs are de facto standard for sharing documents while maintaining their aesthetics and robustness, the significance of XLS to PDF conversion tools cannot be overstated.

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1.3 Objectives of this Comparison

The main objective of this comparison is to help you choose the best tool to convert your XLS files to PDF format. The comparison takes several parameters into consideration, including but not limited to, ease of use, speed, conversion quality, additional features, and cost. By covering a range of free and commercial tools, this comparison aims to cater to diverse user needs and budget considerations.

Each tool’s advantages and disadvantages are summarized concisely to provide a balanced view and assist you in making an informed decision tailored to your specific requirements. This comparison also aims to educate the reader about potential pitfalls or limitations of each tool, thereby helping them avoid unforeseen troubles during their usage.

2. HiPDF Excel to PDF Converter

HiPDF is an online platform that provides various file conversion tools, with one of its prime offerings being the Excel to PDF Converter. The tool allows for both single and batch processing, meaning you can transform multiple Excel files at once. Document security is ensured as HiPDF practices standard encryption methods and removes your files from their servers after processing.

2.1 Pros

• Easy to Use: No software installation is required as HiPDF operates completely online. Simply upload your Excel file, convert it, and download the resulting PDF.
• Batch Conversion: An excellent time-saving feature that allows for multiple Excel files to be converted to PDF simultaneously.
• Data Security: HiPDF uses SSL encryption for file transfers and deletes your files from their servers after conversion, ensuring the privacy and safety of your data.
• Multi-language Support: Along with English, the platform supports other languages like German, French, Spanish, and more, catering to a global user base.

2.2 Cons

• Internet Dependent: As an online tool, its usability is heavily dependent on a stable internet connection.
• File Size Limit: The free version of HiPDF imposes a limitation on file size, potentially hindering conversions of larger Excel files with extensive data.

3. Zamzar

Zamzar is a renowned online file conversion tool that supports over 1200 different file conversions, one of which is XLS to PDF. With nearly 15 years in the industry, Zamzar offers an intuitive interface and conversion process. By merely uploading your XLS file and choosing the output as PDF, you will get your file converted in a few steps. Additionally, the tool also stands out by offering an option to email the converted file directly.

3.1 Pros

• User-friendly Interface: Zamzar offers its users an intuitive and easy-to-navigate interface, making the conversion process simple and efficient.
• Extensive Format Support: With over 1200 conversion formats supported, the versatility of Zamzar is commendable.
• Email Option: You have an option to receive the converted PDF directly via email, a unique feature that makes sharing and accessibility easy.
• No Installation Required: As an online tool, Zamzar leaves no footprint on your local machine and does not require any software installation.

3.2 Cons

• Conversion Time: Zamzar may take longer for conversion than other tools, especially during peak usage times.
• Limits on Free Version: The free version has limitations on daily conversions and file sizes. Access to faster conversions and larger file sizes requires a subscription.

4. Convertio XLS (EXCEL) to PDF Converter

Convertio is an online file converter that supports a vast array of file formats, including, but not limited to, XLS to PDF conversion. The platform stands out with its modern interface and high-end functionalities. Notably, it allows users to upload files directly from their computers, Dropbox, Google Drive, or via URL, offering multiple options to make the conversion process as streamlined as possible for users.

4.1 Pros

• Multiple Upload Options: Convertio allows users to upload files directly from their desktop, Dropbox, Google Drive, or via URL, catering to various user preferences and needs.
• Substantial File Format Support: The tool supports a wide array of file formats, indicating high versatility and adaptability.
• Easy To Use: The website uses a modern, user-friendly interface, making the process of conversion smooth and hassle-free.
• Data Security: Convertio practices secure SSL connections for file transfers and auto-deletes your data after 24 hours.

4.2 Cons

• File Size Restriction: The free version of Convertio has a daily limitation on how many files and how large a file can be converted.
• Dependent on Internet: As with other online tools, a high-speed and stable internet connection is necessary for efficient operation.

5. LightPDF

LightPDF is an online and offline PDF tools provider that offers a wide range of features, including conversion of XLS to PDF. What sets LightPDF apart is its commitment to providing entirely free services without any time, file quantity, or size limitations. The tool is renowned for its simplicity and user-friendliness, and it does not require users to register or provide any personal information.

5.1 Pros

• No Limitations: LightPDF is free to use without any restrictions on time, the number of files, or file size, making it a suitable choice for large and numerous files.
• Privacy Sensitive: No registration or personal information is required to use the tool, ensuring the highest level of privacy for users.
• Offline Version: Unlike many similar tools, LightPDF provides an offline version of their software for users who prefer or need to work offline.
• User-friendly: LightPDF’s interface is simple and direct, making it easy even for first-time users.

5.2 Cons

• Limited Editing Features: The tool is very straightforward for conversion but lacks advanced editing features that some users may require.
• Advertisement Pop-ups: Some users have reported the presence of advertisement pop-ups which can create a less clear and potentially annoying usage experience.

6. DocFly

DocFly is an online document management tool that offers a range of features, including the conversion of Excel files to PDF. It stands out due to its comprehensive range of document handling capabilities beyond mere conversion, such as editing, merging, splitting, and securing PDF files. The tool adheres to strict privacy standards, deleting all files from its servers 24 hours post-conversion.

6.1 Pros

• Multiple Features: Beyond conversion, DocFly allows editing, merging, splitting, and securing PDF files, providing users with a complete suite of document handling tools.
• User-friendly Interface: DocFly sports an intuitive user interface, making it easy for users to navigate and perform tasks efficiently.
• Data Security: With stringent privacy standards, DocFly deletes all uploaded files from its servers 24 hours after conversion.
• Quality Conversion: DocFly maintains a high level of accuracy during conversion, preserving the original data’s layout and formatting.

6.2 Cons

• Limited Free Version: The free version offers a limited number of conversions only, after which users must purchase a subscription for continued use.
• Internet Orientation: Being an online tool, it requires a stable and strong internet connection, which may not be readily available to all users.

7. Foxit Online Converter

Foxit Online Converter is a product of Foxit Software, recognized for its reliable PDF solutions. This converter enables the quick and accurate conversion of Excel files to PDF online. The process is straightforward: Upload the XLS file, convert it to PDF, and download the final file. Foxit follows strict protocols to ensure the security and privacy of user data throughout the process.

7.1 Pros

• High-quality Conversion: Foxit is well-known for its precision in maintaining the original Excel formatting and structure during the conversion process.
• Reliable and Reputable: Foxit Software has a good reputation in the software industry, so you can trust the reliability and efficiency of its online converter.
• Data Security: Foxit ensures data security with high standards of encryption and privacy policies, protecting your files throughout upload, conversion, and processing stages.
• Easy to Use: The conversion process is simple and straightforward, rendering it user-friendly even for the less tech-savvy.

7.2 Cons

• Restricted Free Version: The free version offers basic features with a limit on the number of conversions. For additional features and unlimited conversions, a subscription plan is required.
• Needs Internet: Being an online tool, a continuous and stable internet connection is required for smooth operation.

8. PDF Candy

PDF Candy is a collection of free online tools for PDF manipulation, including an XLS to PDF converter. The website’s friendly and straightforward interface enables seamless file conversion. Unlike many similar tools, PDF Candy allows users access to all features without any limitations, advertisements, or registration requirements, making it an appealing choice.

8.1 Pros

• Completely Free: PDF Candy is completely free without any limitations on usage or access to features.
• No Ads or Registration: The tool is free from advertisements and does not require users to register or provide any personal information.
• User-friendly Interface: The tool’s friendly interface makes it simple and easy to use, even for beginners.
• Assured Privacy: PDF Candy values user privacy and does not store uploaded files on its servers, ensuring the safety and security of user data.

8.2 Cons

• Limited Functionalities: While PDF Candy does well in terms of basic conversion, it lacks some advanced features that other tools provide.
• Relies on Internet Connection: As an online tool, its performance depends upon a stable and robust internet connection.

9. WPS PDF TOOLS

WPS PDF Tools is an online service delivered by WPS, a reputable software provider specialized in productivity tools. The platform is designed to handle a variety of tasks, including converting Excel files to PDF format. Its layout is simple and intuitive, streamlining the conversion process and ensuring high-quality results. WPS PDF Tools is a highly accessible solution for users with standard conversion needs.

9.1 Pros

• High-quality Conversion: WPS maintains the original formatting and layout of Excel files during conversion, delivering high-quality PDF files.
• User-friendly Interface: The service’s intuitive user interface makes it easy to use and navigate, even for beginners.
• From a Established Provider: WPS is an established name in the office and productivity software industry, bringing reliability and credibility to its online services.
• Works with Various Operating Systems: This online tool can be used across different platforms and operating systems, making it versatile and accessible.

9.2 Cons

• Limited Free Usage: The free version of WPS PDF Tools allows a limited number of conversions per day and requires a subscription for unrestricted use.
• Internet Dependence: Being an online tool, its performance is contingent on the quality and stability of the user’s internet connection.

10. doPDF

doPDF is a free PDF converter that allows users to transform Excel files into PDF documents. It is a lightweight and user-friendly tool that operates as a virtual printer. This means once doPDF is installed, it appears in your list of printers and enables you to “print” your Excel file into a PDF document effectively. This unique approach maintains high-quality conversion while avoiding complications and complex processes.

10.1 Pros

• Simple and Straightforward: doPDF’s unique virtual printer setup simplifies the conversion process, making it exceptionally user-friendly.
• Quality Conversion: doPDF ensures that the outcome PDF matches the original Excel file in terms of layout, formatting, and data correctness.
• Free and No Ads: The tool is completely free, does not contain any ads and there are no watermarks on the converted files.
• Language Support: doPDF is available in several languages, making it accessible and helpful for non-English users.

10.2 Cons

• Installation Required: Unlike online tools, doPDF requires software installation, which could be an obstacle for users with restricted administrative access or limited storage space.
• Lacks Advanced Features: doPDF focuses on providing a basic conversion service, as a result, advanced features such as batch conversion, editing, or file compression are absent.

11. PDFen

PDFen is an online tool intended for converting files, including Excel, into PDF and PDF/A format. Designed to be user-friendly and efficient, PDFen allows for single or batch conversions to cater to different user needs. You can also merge multiple files into a single PDF document. This tool ensures privacy by deleting the processed files after a few hours.

11.1 Pros

• Batch Conversions: PDFen provides the ability to convert multiple Excel files to PDF simultaneously, increasing efficiency for bulk conversion tasks.
• Merge Option: Users are able to merge multiple files into one single PDF, a feature that is often useful and not always provided by similar tools.
• Data Security: With stringent policies, PDFen ensures user privacy by removing converted files from its servers after a few hours.
• User-friendly Interface: The layout of PDFen is intuitive and straightforward, making it easy for users to convert their files.

11.2 Cons

• Limited Free Version: The free version of the tool has limitations with respect to the number of files and the total size of files that can be converted.
• Depends on Internet Connection: Being an online tool, it mandates the need for a continuous and stable internet connection for the smooth operation of the service.

12. EaseUS PDF Editor

EaseUS PDF Editor is a well-known professional desktop-based software offering a wide range of PDF solutions, including converting Excel files (XLSX) to PDF documents. It does more than simply convert files – with powerful editing tools, you can modify text, images, and even watermarks in your PDF documents. Notably, EaseUS PDF Editor emphasizes precision in conversion, providing results that mirror the original Excel layout.

12.1 Pros

• Multifunctional: EaseUS PDF Editor is more than just a converter. It has comprehensive PDF editing tools that enable users to modify the document to fit their individual needs.
• High Quality Conversion: The software ensures precise transformation from XLSX to PDF, retaining the original layout, imaging, and formatting characteristics of the source document.
• Offline Operation: Unlike online tools, EaseUS PDF Editor does not require a constant internet connection to operate, allowing you to continue working even without internet access.
• Customer Support: It provides excellent customer support, which is a key advantage for troubleshooting and user guidance.

12.2 Cons

• Paid Software: EaseUS PDF Editor is a commercial product. While it does offer a free trial, the complete range of features is only available in the paid version.
• Software Installation: This requires software installation, which can be an impediment for users with limited device storage or administrative access restrictions.

13. Summary

13.1 Overall Comparison Table

Tool	Features	Ease of Use	Price	Customer Support
HiPDF Excel to PDF Converter	Online, Batch Conversion, Multi-language	Easy	Free with Limitations, Paid versions available	FAQs and Email Support
Zamzar	Online, Extensive Format Support, Email Option	Easy	Free with Limitations, Paid versions available	Email Support
Convertio XLS (EXCEL) to PDF Converter	Online, Multiple Upload Options, Wide Format Support	Easy	Free with Limitations, Paid versions available	Customer form and Email Support
LightPDF	Online and Offline, No Limitations	Easy	Free	Email Support
DocFly	Online, Multiple PDF Tools	Easy	Free with Limitations, Paid versions available	Email Support
Foxit Online Converter	Online, High-Quality Conversion	Easy	Free with Limitations, Paid versions available	Email and Phone Support
PDF Candy	Online, Completely Free	Easy	Free	No direct support, Guides available on the website
WPS PDF TOOLS	Online, Quality Conversion, Reputable Provider	Easy	Free with Limitations, Paid versions available	FAQs and Support Ticket System
doPDF	Offline, Virtual Printer Setup, Quality Conversion	Easy	Free	Forums and Email Support
PDFen	Online, Batch Conversions, Merge Option	Easy	Free with Limitations, Paid versions available	Email Support
EaseUS PDF Editor	Offline, Multifunctional, High Quality Conversion	Easy	Free Trial, Paid versions available	Email and Live Chat Support

13.2 Recommended Tool Based on Various Needs

If you are looking for a tool with extensive features beyond conversion, consider EaseUS PDF Editor or DocFly. For those who prioritize privacy and do not wish to register, LightPDF and PDF Candy would be ideal picks. If your quests are entirely free tools, PDF Candy and doPDF are worth considering. For those in need of batch conversion or merging files into one PDF, consider PDFen or WPS PDF Tools. Try out these tools to identify which one best suits your specific productivity requirements.

14. Conclusion

14.1 Final Thoughts and Takeaways for Choosing an Convert XLS To PDF Tool

Converting XLS into PDF is a frequent necessity across various professional, academic, and personal settings. With numerous tools available in the market, it can become challenging to identify the one that best suits your needs. In this guide, we’ve presented the key features, strengths, and limitations of eleven different XLS to PDF converters, providing you a comprehensive understanding to make an informed decision.

When choosing a converter tool, it’s imperative first to identify your major requirements such as batch conversion, quality of conversion, data security, cost, ease of use, customer support, and the need for additional features like editing or merging capabilities. For users gravitating towards free options, doPDF and PDF Candy stand out, while for those seeking advanced features and do not mind a paid subscription, EaseUS PDF Editor and DocFly are potential choices.

Remember that the best tool is highly subjective and depends on your specific need at the time. What is most crucial is that the converter you choose offers a seamless user experience and lives up to its promises regarding quality, speed, and security.

Author Introduction:

Vera Chen is a data recovery expert in DataNumen, which provides a wide range of products, including an excellent MSSQL recovery tool.