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Converting XPS to PDF: Your first step to streamlined editing and customisation.

Convert your XPS file to a flexible, editable PDF with Adobe Acrobat in just a few steps.

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Published by Adobe Acrobat India on 20 March 2025

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What is an XPS File?

When to convert XPS to PDF

How to convert XPS files to PDF

Why choosing a reliable PDF converter matters

How converting XPS to PDF simplifies document management and collaboration

Frequently asked questions

Converting XPS files to PDFs ensures your documents are accessible and easy to share, regardless of platform. While XPS is tied to Microsoft products, PDFs are preferred in India for government, business, and academic tasks. By converting XPS files to PDFs, you unlock smooth sharing, seamless collaboration, and cross-platform accessibility. This guide will walk you through the steps to convert XPS to PDF and explore how Adobe Acrobat can further streamline your workflow with advanced tools like merging, editing, and secure sharing.
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What is an XPS File?

An XPS file, or XML Paper Specification, is Microsoft’s document format designed to preserve the precise layout, fonts, and formatting of a document - similar to how PDFs maintain consistency across devices. Its purpose is to ensure that a file’s appearance remains intact, whether printed or viewed digitally. However, since XPS is native to the Windows ecosystem, sharing or accessing these files outside of Microsoft Office can be challenging. Converting XPS files to PDF solves these issues by offering a universally accepted format that works seamlessly across all platforms and operating systems, making collaboration and sharing easier and more efficient.

When to convert XPS to PDF.

When you convert an XPS file to PDF, your document becomes easier to share, view, and collaborate on, no matter which platform you or your audience are using. While XPS files maintain formatting, they require specific Microsoft tools to open - limiting access for those outside the Windows ecosystem. On the other hand, PDFs are supported across all major devices, with most already equipped with Adobe Acrobat, ensuring your content is ready to go from the moment it’s shared. Converting to PDF not only removes accessibility barriers but also unlocks features like commenting, merging, and secure sharing through Adobe’s tools, helping you work more efficiently and keep everything moving forward.

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How to convert XPS files to PDF.

How to easily convert XPS files to PDFs on your PC.

To convert XPS files to PDFs on your PC, you can use the built-in 'Microsoft Print to PDF' feature available in Windows.

Here's how:

  1. Open the XPS file. Locate your XPS document and open it using the XPS Viewer application.
  2. Access the print dialog. Click on the 'File' menu and select 'Print'.
  3. Select 'Microsoft Print to PDF'. In the list of available printers, choose 'Microsoft Print to PDF'.
  4. Initiate the conversion. Click 'Print'. You'll be prompted to choose a location and filename for the new PDF.
  5. Save the PDF. After selecting the desired location and filename, click 'Save'. Your XPS file will be converted to a PDF and saved in the specified location. This method utilises Windows' native functionality, eliminating the need for additional software.

How to open an XPS file on a Mac using Google Drive.

To convert an XPS file to a PDF using Google Drive, follow these simple steps:

  1. Upload the XPS file. Open Google Drive, click on "New" in the left-hand menu, select "File upload," and choose your XPS file from your device.
  2. Open the file. Once the XPS file has been uploaded, locate it in your Google Drive and double-click to open it.
  3. Access the Print dialog. Click on the print icon or select "Print" from the "File" menu. This will open the print options window.
  4. Select 'Save as PDF'. In the list of available printers, choose the "Save as PDF" option.
  5. Save the PDF. Choose a destination folder for the PDF file on your device, then click "Save" to complete the conversion. This process converts your XPS document into a PDF file without the need for additional software, making it quick and convenient!

Why choosing a reliable PDF converter matters.

Converting Word documents, Excel sheets, or other files into PDFs - and vice versa - is a common part of modern workflows. However, not all tools are built the same, and using unreliable converters can lead to risks that compromise both your data and content integrity.

Some content management systems (CMS) may not support direct embedding of PDFs, requiring users to convert files into formats like JPEG for seamless use. In these situations, the tool you choose plays a vital role in maintaining the quality and security of your files.

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A trusted PDF converter matters because it:

Protects your data.

Using unreliable tools can expose your information to risks of leaks, leading to the misuse of sensitive or private content.

Preserves content quality.

Some tools may result in incomplete conversions, causing lost or corrupted content.

Ensures format compatibility.

Many tools struggle with certain file types, resulting in inaccurate conversions that can disrupt workflows.

Choosing a trusted tool like Adobe Acrobat eliminates these risks. With robust conversion capabilities, you can seamlessly convert PDFs to and from multiple formats across devices, ensuring efficiency, accuracy, and data security. Whether you’re working on the go or need reliable integration with Microsoft Office, Acrobat provides all the tools you need to streamline your process and minimise rework.

How converting XPS to PDF simplifies document management and collaboration.

While XPS files offer similar formatting benefits to PDFs, they lack the widespread compatibility needed for seamless cross-platform sharing. PDFs are universally recognised and supported on nearly all devices and platforms, making them the go-to format for business and academic use. Adobe Acrobat takes these benefits further with advanced tools for merging, collaboration, and secure sharing, in addition to:

PDFs are often the preferred format.

PDFs are the standard for sharing, storing, and presenting documents across industries, thanks to their compatibility with almost all platforms and devices.

Ensuring smooth cross-platform sharing.

Convert XPS files to PDFs to eliminate barriers and make your documents accessible to everyone. Whether you’re working with Microsoft or non-Microsoft tools, PDFs ensure your files can be opened, shared, and collaborated on without limitations.

Unlock advanced features with Adobe Acrobat.

With PDF conversion, you also gain access to powerful tools like merging, collaboration, and digital signatures—ensuring your workflow stays efficient and organised.

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Frequently asked questions.

What is the difference between XPS and PDF?

XPS (XML Paper Specification) and PDF (Portable Document Format) are both designed to preserve document formatting across different platforms. XPS is a Microsoft-developed format primarily used within the Windows ecosystem, while PDF is an open standard widely adopted across various operating systems and devices. PDFs are more universally accessible, making them the preferred choice for sharing documents.

How can I convert an XPS file to PDF using Adobe Acrobat?

Adobe Acrobat does not natively support the conversion of XPS files to PDF. However, you can use the "Microsoft Print to PDF" feature available in Windows:

  1. Open the XPS file using the XPS Viewer.
  2. Click on 'File' and select 'Print.'
  3. Choose 'Microsoft Print to PDF' as the printer.
  4. Click 'Print' and select a location to save the new PDF file.
  5. Once converted, you can open and edit the PDF using Adobe Acrobat.

Are there any free tools to convert XPS to PDF?

Yes, Windows users can utilise the built-in "Microsoft Print to PDF" feature to convert XPS files to PDF without additional software. This method allows you to print the XPS file as a PDF, which can then be opened and edited in Adobe Acrobat.

Can I convert multiple XPS files to PDF at once?

Batch conversion of XPS files to PDF is not directly supported in Adobe Acrobat. However, you can individually convert each XPS file to PDF using the "Microsoft Print to PDF" feature and then combine the PDFs into a single document using the Adobe Acrobat online tool 'Merge PDF' which combines PDFs online.

Is it safe to convert XPS files to PDF?

Converting XPS files to PDF using trusted methods, such as the "Microsoft Print to PDF" feature, is safe and maintains the integrity of your documents. Once converted, Adobe Acrobat provides robust security features to protect your PDF files, including password protection and encryption.

Why should I convert XPS files to PDF?

Converting XPS files to PDF enhances document accessibility and compatibility. PDFs are widely supported across various platforms and devices, making them ideal for sharing and collaboration. Additionally, online services like Adobe Acrobat offers advanced features for editing, annotating, and securing PDF documents, streamlining your workflow once the document is converted.

Can I edit an XPS file in Adobe Acrobat?

Adobe Acrobat does not support editing XPS files directly. To edit an XPS file, first convert it to PDF using the "Microsoft Print to PDF" feature. After conversion, you can open and edit the PDF in Adobe Acrobat, utilising its comprehensive suite of editing tools.

Does converting XPS to PDF affect the quality of the document?

Converting XPS files to PDF using the "Microsoft Print to PDF" feature generally preserves the quality and formatting of the original document. However, it's advisable to review the converted PDF to ensure all elements have been accurately retained. Adobe Acrobat allows you to make any necessary adjustments to maintain the document's quality.

Are there any limitations when converting XPS to PDF?

While the "Microsoft Print to PDF" feature effectively converts XPS files to PDF, some complex elements or interactive features in the original XPS file may not be fully preserved. After conversion, the Adobe Acrobat online services can help you address any discrepancies and enhance the PDF as needed.
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Content as a Service v3 - Monday 17 March 2025 at 17:56

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A complete guide to converting XPS to PDF.
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