Open PDF files online
PDF (Portable Document Format) is the universal format for fixed-layout documents — contracts, invoices, manuals and e-tickets — preserving fonts and layout across every device.
Drop a PDF file to open it
or click to choose — everything stays on your device
Choose file🔒 100% private — files never leave your browser
Or turn PDF into an image — snapshot the preview, add arrows or notes, and download a PNG.
What is a PDF file?
PDF (Portable Document Format) is the universal format for fixed-layout documents — contracts, invoices, manuals and e-tickets — preserving fonts and layout across every device. The .PDF extension identifies a Portable Document Format file, which is served with the application/pdf media type. You can open it here instantly — drop the file into the box above and it renders in your browser. Nothing is uploaded.
Besides this free online viewer, you can open PDF files in desktop apps such as Adobe Acrobat, web browsers, Preview (macOS) — but here all you need is a web browser.
Quick facts
| Format | PDF — Portable Document Format |
|---|---|
| File extensions | .pdf |
| MIME type | application/pdf |
| Developer | Adobe (1993) |
| Category | Office documents |
| Also opens in | Adobe Acrobat, web browsers, Preview (macOS) |
How to open a PDF file online
- Click Choose file above, or drag your PDF file onto the box.
- The right viewer loads automatically and renders your file.
- Read, scroll or page through it. To open a different file, choose Open another file.
100% private — files never leave your browser.
Libraries used to render PDF in the browser
This viewer is built entirely with open-source JavaScript that runs in your browser:
Frequently asked questions
What is a .PDF file?
A .PDF file is a Portable Document Format, identified by the application/pdf media type. You can open and read it instantly in the viewer above without installing anything.
What programs open PDF files?
On the desktop, PDF files typically open in Adobe Acrobat, web browsers, Preview (macOS). Online, this page opens them in any modern browser — nothing to download.
How do I convert PDF to an image?
Use Snapshot to capture the PDF preview, optionally add arrows, text or highlights, then download it as a PNG image.
Is it safe to open my PDF file here?
Yes. The file is read and rendered entirely by JavaScript inside your own browser. It is never uploaded to a server, so nothing leaves your device.
Do I need to install anything to view a PDF file?
No. There is nothing to install and no account to create. Open the page, drop your file, and it displays instantly.
Does it work on my phone or iPad?
Yes. The viewer is fully responsive and works in modern mobile and tablet browsers such as Safari and Chrome.
Is there a file size limit?
There is no hard limit, but very large files depend on your device’s memory. Big files are processed in the background so the page stays responsive.