How to Convert XLSX to PDF Step-by-Step

Did you know that XLSX files can be saved as PDF documents quite easily? Despite being the standard format for Microsoft Excel, many users are unaware of how to convert XLSX to PDF format. Whether it’s to prepare reports, share data or archive files, we have you covered. In this guide, we will provide you with 3 free options to export XLSX files to PDF. We will also include a professional solution that excels at batch conversion. Let’s get to it!

Index:

• Benefits of Converting to PDF
• How to Convert XLSX to PDF Format?
• Option 1: Using Microsoft Excel – A Native Solution
• Option 2: Using Google Sheets – A Free Online Solution
• Option 3: Using Online Websites – A Free Online Solution
• Option 4: Using Pro Tool – An Offline Batch Conversion Solution
• Which Option Should You Choose?
• That’s All

Benefits of Converting to PDF

There are multiple applications that deal with Excel spreadsheets. Each of these apps have their own user base. Due to this, when XLSX files are shared with other users using a different application than the one which created the sheet, there may be changes in formatting of the documents. That’s where XLSX to PDF conversion is beneficial. After all, PDF files ensure that:

• The layout and formatting remain intact.
• Files are accessible on any device without Excel software.
• Data is protected from accidental edits.

How to Convert XLSX to PDF Format?

Solution: To efficiently move the XLSX files to PDF format, you can use one of these four methods:

• Option 1: Using Microsoft Excel – A Native Solution
• Option 2: Using Google Sheets – A Free Online Solution
• Option 3: Using Online Websites – A Free Online Solution
• Option 4: Using Pro Tool – An Offline Batch Conversion Solution

These solutions can also be used for other spreadsheet formats such as converting XLSM to PDF and ODS to PDF.

Here are the detailed steps for focused conversion.

Note: Before we start, keep in mind that each method has its own advantages and disadvantages. For instance, a method may be free but may not offer bulk conversion. So, it’s recommended to check the methods with a few sample files before choosing one as the final option.

Option 1: DIY with the Native Microsoft Excel Program

For those who already have the Microsoft Excel program, it is quite easy to perform this task.

1. Simply open MS Excel on your system.
2. Then, click on Open or File>Open and open the XLSX file you want to convert.
   
3. Once the file is launched, if it is in protected view, click on Enable Editing.
   
4. After that, go to File>Save As and select a destination location to save the file.
   
5. Make sure that PDF is selected in the Save as type dropdown menu.
   
6. Now, adjust the settings as required.
7. Finally, click the Save button to export the Excel file to PDF.
   
8. The process is completed successfully.
   

Pros: It is a free, easy and quick method if you’re already an Excel user.

Cons: Users can only convert one file at a time as batch conversion is not supported.

Option 2: Convert Single XLSX file to PDF using Google Sheets

There are two ways to go about this method. The first way is to upload the file to Google Drive and then double-click the file which will open it in Google Sheets. The second way is to upload the file directly into Google Sheets. Both ways are possible and result in the same results.Google Sheets is a web-based alternative to free convert XLSX to PDF without Excel. 

1. First, launch Google Sheets on your web browser.
   
2. Now, go to File > Import and upload the XLSX file you want to convert.
   
3. Click on Import Data > Open Now to open it on your Google Sheets platform.
   
4. After that, click on File > Download > PDF (.pdf).
   
5. Now, click on Export.
   
6. Finally, download and open the PDF and work with it as required.
   

Pros: This option is 100% free as of now and works on all platforms as long as you have an internet connection.

Cons: This option does not provide any batch processing mechanism. So you have to export a single XLSX file to PDF at a time.

Option 3: Online XLSX to PDF Conversion Tools

Online tools are probably the easiest way to get this job done. They are quick and platform-independent and you only need a proper internet connection to execute this method.

1. Search for “free XLSX to PDF online converter” on any web browser.
   
2. Choose a trusted website and open it.
   
3. Either drag and drop the XLSX file into the upload area or use the Upload button.
   
4. The tool will automatically process the uploaded XLSX file.
   
5. Finally, click on Download to save the converted PDF file.
6. Verify the PDF once the process is complete.
   

Pros: This method does not require any installation. It also supports multiple platforms, even mobile. Finally, it is 100% free for a single conversion.

Cons: This method imposes file size limits so you cannot convert large XLSX files to PDF. Batch processing exceeding 5-10 files requires a “subscription” service fee. And finally, since you are uploading a file to their web server, there are concerns of data leaks and unauthorized access.

Option 4: Professional XLSX to PDF Batch Converter

For those who need to convert multiple XLSX files to PDF at once, a professional batch converter like SysTools Document Converter tool is the ideal solution. It is ideal for a safe and secure offline conversion of multiple files in bulk. The files remain private, you get a number of customization options and you only need to pay once to use the software without any restrictions.

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Video:

Steps to Batch Convert XLSX Files to PDF Format:

1. Start the converter on your Windows system.
   
2. Click on Add Files to import multiple XLSX files.
   
3. Preview the XLSX data in the preview panel.
   
4. Apply settings like page number, add password, page layout, etc.
   
5. Next, click on Export to batch convert XLSX to PDF files.
   
6. The process is successful.
   
7. Open and verify the PDF files.
   

Pros: This method is suitable for large batches with no size limits. It preserves formatting perfectly. And you can take advantage of additional features like page layout settings, bates number, date format, add password, page orientation and more.

Cons: This method is a paid tool and requires software installation.

Which Option Should You Choose?

• For Single File Conversion, stick with Microsoft Excel or Google Sheets.
• For Occasional Use, free online tools are perfect.
• For Privacy & Bulk Conversion, use the batch XLSX to PDF Converter by SysTools.

That’s All

Excel users often need a way to convert XLSX to PDF when they wish to present their data in a universally accepted format. We offered you with the most feasible options to complete the task successfully. The step by step process makes all the methods easier to understand and execute. Now, you can surely solve your needs regardless of free, single, online, offline, or batch conversion.

Quick Links:

• Convert Your XLSX to vCard
• Windows XLSX Viewer