We reviewed the best AutoCAD to PDF converters for exporting DWG and DXF files into PDFs that anyone can use and print.
When you're working with the best 3D modeling software, you want to know your digital designs and CAD creations are secure. That's where AutoCAD to PDF conversion tools come in - helping you store or share DWG and DXF files even with those working outside of the Autodesk environment.
The best PDF editors and best free PDF editors offer many document converter tools, typically centered around Office filetypes like Word and Excel. For the best PDF to AutoCAD converters and vice versa, specialized software is usually more useful.
Equipped with the best laptops for AutoCAD, our team of expert reviewers have tested out the very best AutoCAD to PDF converters. As part of our testing process, we’ve explored key features including user interface and experience, how the tools handle batch conversions, platform compatibility, support for additional file types, and pricing.
The best AutoCAD to PDF converter of 2024 in full:
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Best AutoCAD to PDF converter overall
The AutoDWG DWG to PDF converter is one of the most popular programs available today. It supports large-scale batch conversions of DWG, DXF, and DWF CAD files. On top of this, all of the latest AutoCAD file versions are supported.
When you use AutoDWG, you will benefit from a simple user interface that takes only minutes to get used to. Converting files is as simple as uploading them and hitting the convert button. Conversions are also quick, and the ability to convert multiple files at once is useful.
The program’s comprehensive free trial means that you can try it before you buy it. If you do need to purchase a paid license, there are different options available: a lifetime license option with core features, a Pro license with additional ones, and a Server license for teams.
Best free AutoCAD to PDF converter
The Autodesk DWG Viewers programs are a little different from the others on this list. Rather than being a dedicated AutoCAD to PDF converter, Autodesk offer an online AutoCAD viewer with built-in conversion tools.
Since this program is free, it’s a great choice for anyone who regularly works with DWG and other AutoCAD files. To convert a file, simply open it with the Autodesk viewer, make any required edits, and then click the export button via the top left-hand menu.
In general, these conversions tend to be accurate and well done. However, it certainly isn’t the most beginner-friendly program, hence why it doesn't top our list.
That said, if you think the advanced viewing and editing features would improve your current workflow, this could be a great choice for you. It would particularly useful for anyone who collaborates with others and needs to give quick feedback.
Best AutoCAD to PDF converter online
The Zamzar DWG to PDF converter provides a full AutoCAD to PDF file converter that supports DWG, DXF, and other CAD file formats. No download is required, and user accounts are only necessary for high-volume clients.
For the average user, converting a file with Zamzar is as easy: upload the file you want to convert, choose what format you want to change it to, and hit the Convert Now button.
If you require more than the basic service, you can upgrade to one of the paid subscriptions. Paid plans include unlimited file conversions, a higher max file size, and online storage. A range of other powerful file conversion services are also available.
It's an all-in-one AutoCAD to PDF converter solution for your office, meaning you wouldn't need to look for a separate Word to PDF or Excel to PDF converter.
Best AutoCAD to PDF converter for specialists
The Any DWG to PDF Converter is a powerful program designed to transform DWG, DWF, and DXF files from AutoCAD into PDF documents. It has a batch converter that supports unlimited concurrent conversions.
On top of this, Any DWG to PDF is extremely versatile, allowing you to customize the size, quality, and color of your output PDF files. Different AutoCAD-specific features are also supported, including paper space, active layout, and model space, which ensure accurate conversions.
Helpful export options allow you to export one PDF per layout, one PDF per drawing, or all of your drawings in a single PDF file. The resulting PDF files are highly usable, with navigation bookmarks added automatically.
The Pro version includes command line integration, which may be useful for advanced users who wish to automate their workflow.
The program’s free trial allows 30 free conversions, after which you will have to upgrade to a paid license, and bulk discounts are available.
Best AutoCAD to PDF converter for filetypes
The TalkHelper PDF Converter provides versatile PDF conversion services. Unlike most of the programs on this list, it does much more than simple AutoCAD to PDF conversions. Instead, it allows you to transform everything from DWG files to XLS spreadsheets and images into high-quality PDF files.
Furthermore, the TalkHelper PDF Converter has a beginner-friendly interface. It’s intuitive and straightforward to use and has a selection of advanced tools. For example, you can upload and view numerous files before converting them all at the same time. You can also specify an output folder and page range.
Beyond conversions, this piece of software also allows you to split, merge, and extract single pages from existing PDF files.
TalkHelper PDF Converter comes with a free trial and a 30-day money-back guarantee. However, a lifetime license is very cheap and one of the most cost-effective AutoCAD to PDF converters on the market.
We've also tested the best PDF merger software.
Best AutoCAD to PDF converters: FAQs
What is an AutoCAD to PDF converter?
AutoCAD to PDF converters transform DWG, DXF, and other AutoCAD file types into versatile PDF files.
Why is that something you might want to do?
Viewing AutoCAD files requires the use of specialist software which many people don't have. PDF (Portable Document Format) files are compatible with a wide variety of operating systems and devices without additional software. You can distribute PDF versions of your AutoCAD files to anyone, safe in the knowledge they'll see what you intended.
How to choose the best AutoCAD to PDF converter for you
Choosing which AutoCAD to PDF converter is best for you will vary depending on your specific needs. If you simply want to convert the files with minimal fuss, then a free online file conversion tool could be all you ever need. If you want more control over how your files appear, then dedicated conversion software might be a better choice. This is especially true if you're working for an organization, as paid-for options will unlock more exports and conversions, along with more useful tools for maximising the workflow.
Some of the converters on our list could quite easily replace your existing premium or any of the best free PDF readers, offering basic PDF editing and management tools, too. This would be a bonus for anyone regularly working with PDF files. But for pure AutoCAD to PDF conversions, a dedicated converter is best, as the developers are familiar with filetypes like DWG.
How we test the best AutoCAD to PDF converters
We've tested, reviewed, and rated a range of PDF tools, including the best PDF compressors and the best Adobe Acrobat alternatives. We've also extensively tested the best graphic design software and rendering tools for CAD professionals.
To test the best AutoCAD to PDF converters, we compared them in a number of areas. These included operating system compatibility, support for AutoCAD file types, batch processing options, and other bonus features. We also looked at the user interface, support documentation, and payment models, considering free versions (where available).
Read more on how we test, rate, and review products on TechRadar.
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