📄 RTF to PDF Converter
The need to convert RTF to PDF has grown significantly in today’s digital world. Rich Text Format (RTF) files are excellent for basic formatting and wide compatibility, but PDFs offer unmatched professionalism, security, and universal accessibility. Whether you’re preparing documents for sharing, printing, archiving, or publishing, converting RTF to PDF is a critical step for preserving formatting and ensuring consistency across devices and platforms.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about RTF to PDF conversion, including top tools, step-by-step instructions, and the benefits of converting.
What is an RTF File and Why Convert it to PDF?
RTF (Rich Text Format) is a document format developed by Microsoft that supports basic formatting like bold, italics, fonts, colors, and images. It is designed to be read and edited across various word processors including WordPad, MS Word, LibreOffice, and more.
However, RTF files lack the formatting stability and professional appeal of PDFs. This is why converting RTF to PDF is essential:
- Preserves formatting and layout exactly as intended
- Prevents unwanted editing or formatting changes
- Ensures compatibility across all devices and operating systems
- Ideal for professional documentation, legal use, resumes, and printing
Top Benefits of Converting RTF to PDF
- Universal Compatibility – PDF files open on any system without losing layout
- Professional Presentation – PDFs offer clean, polished formatting
- Security Features – Add password protection, encryption, or watermarking
- Better Print Output – PDFs maintain quality and alignment across all printers
- Reduced File Tampering – Lock content and prevent unauthorized changes
Best Free Online Tools to Convert RTF to PDF
Here are the most trusted and user-friendly online tools for fast and free conversion:
1. PDFCandy
- Simple drag-and-drop interface
- High-speed conversion
- Retains layout and fonts accurately
2. Zamzar
- Clean user interface
- No need to install any software
- Email download option available
3. Online2PDF
- Allows batch RTF to PDF conversion
- Optional compression and merging features
- Secure and fast
4. Convertio
- Works on all browsers and devices
- Converts from cloud services like Google Drive & Dropbox
- No sign-up required for small files
How to Convert RTF to PDF – Step-by-Step
Step 1: Upload the RTF File
Go to your chosen online tool and click “Choose File” to upload the RTF document.
Step 2: Choose Output Format as PDF
Select PDF as your output file format from the dropdown or selection menu.
Step 3: Start the Conversion
Click on “Convert” to initiate the process.
Step 4: Download the PDF
Once the conversion is complete, download the new PDF file to your device.
Convert RTF to PDF Using Microsoft Word
Microsoft Word offers a quick and free way to save RTF as PDF without needing third-party software:
- Open the RTF file in Microsoft Word
- Click on File > Save As
- Choose location and select PDF from the “Save as type” dropdown
- Click Save
This method retains fonts, formatting, and layout perfectly.
Top Desktop Applications to Convert RTF to PDF
For users who prefer offline tools, these are the most reliable applications:
1. Adobe Acrobat Pro DC
- Industry-leading PDF creation and editing
- Offers advanced options like OCR, compression, and signing
- Convert, combine, or split files effortlessly
2. LibreOffice Writer
- Free and open-source alternative to MS Word
- Open RTF and export directly to PDF
- Great for Linux users or minimal setups
3. WPS Office
- Lightweight and fast document processor
- Supports RTF input and PDF export
- Integrated file manager and cloud support
Mobile Apps to Convert RTF to PDF
Android:
- All Document Reader and Converter
- Supports RTF viewing and export to PDF
- Easy sharing and cloud integration
iOS:
- iLovePDF App
- Converts RTF files from local storage or cloud
- Offers editing and annotation features
Advanced Tips for Perfect RTF to PDF Conversion
- Review Formatting Before Conversion – Ensure fonts, line spacing, and headers are correct
- Use High-Quality Converters – Especially for documents with images or complex layout
- Secure Your PDF – Add a password or digital signature using tools like Adobe Acrobat
- Check File Size – Compress if needed to ensure email or upload compatibility
- Preview Output – Open the PDF after conversion to verify accuracy
Common Use Cases for RTF to PDF Conversion
- Business Reports – Create consistent, non-editable documents for clients
- Resumes and CVs – Ensure perfect layout and presentation across devices
- Legal Documents – Lock content and preserve official formatting
- Academic Papers – Meet submission requirements with proper PDF formatting
- Manuals and User Guides – Preserve diagrams and content structure
RTF vs PDF: A Quick Comparison
| Feature | RTF | |
|---|---|---|
| Editability | Fully editable | Read-only by default |
| Layout Preservation | May vary by editor | Fixed, consistent layout |
| Security Options | None | Passwords, watermarks, etc. |
| File Sharing | Risk of formatting loss | Perfect for sharing |
| Professional Use | Limited | Preferred for official use |
Conclusion
Whether you’re preparing an important presentation, a resume, or legal documentation, converting RTF to PDF is essential to ensure consistency, professionalism, and universal accessibility. With numerous free online tools, desktop applications, and mobile solutions, anyone can convert documents in seconds while retaining all necessary formatting and structure.
Embrace the reliability and security of PDFs today, and turn your editable RTF files into polished, print-ready documents with ease.