How to Convert XML to PDF Format? Complete Guide
Do you have nested XML files and want to convert them into PDF format to make them easy to read? If it sounds right, then you are on the right page. This blog is going to explain the best techniques to convert XML to PDF using MS Word, Notepad++, using Python Code, and an automatic solution for large and nested data files. Read the complete article first, then choose the method that suits you.
XML format is a widely used format to store large structured data with tags and attributes. On the other hand, PDF is the best format for sharing and presenting data easily. XML is not a human-readable format for non-technical users, which creates reasons to convert XML to PDF format.
For simple, structured XML files, manual methods are appropriate for conversion, but in case users have nested, complex, structured XML files, then only an automatic solution can help them in XML to PDF conversion.
This guide will explain the best and most effective process for XML to PDF conversion without modifying data.
Why Do Wants to Convert XML File to PDF Format?
Below, we have given some benefits of using PDF over XML format.
- A PDF file can be accessed on all devices and operating systems, but XML is compatible with a limited number of applications.
- XML format uses a systematic form, but does not have good layout design.
- Anyone can read PDF format easily and smoothly.
- Users can share PDFs with anyone through any platform, but can’t share large XML files.
- PDF format preserves EXACT formatting with the shared files.
- Can lock a PDF with password.
- Can restrict editing in PDF documents.
- Supports the protection of XML-sensitive data every time it is shared.
Suggestion for Nested & Complex Structured Files
If you have large, nested, and invalid XML files, then downloading the SysTools XML Converter Tool would be a better option than manual methods to convert XML to PDF format. This is the only solution that supports multiple XML files in bulk at the same time. It can handle all types of tags and attributes without altering data. Download and install the free demo version to understand the features.
How to Convert XML to PDF Format Manually?
We can convert XML files to PDF format using MS Word, Notepad++, Python Code or Scripts, and the best XML to PDF converter for experts. Firstly, we have explained all the manual methods, and then we will move to the software and will understand why XML to PDF converters are better than using manual methods.
Method 1: With MS Word
- Locate your XML files.
- Right-click on any XML file to open.
- Choose “Open With” >> “Word” option.
- Your XML file data will open in MS Word.
- Now select the “File” tab from the top.
- Select the “Print” button.
- Select the “Microsoft Print to PDF” and choose the “Print” icon.
- Browse the location for your output PDF file.
- Lastly, select the “Open” button to open XML file in PDF.
Method 2: Convert XML to PDF using Notepad++
- Same, open your XML file in Notepad.
- After opening the file, choose the “File” tab.
- Select the “Print” button from the list.
- Choose the Printer as the “Microsoft Print to PDF” option.
- Select any location according to you and save it.
And successfully, your XML file will convert into PDF format.
Method 3: Convert XML to PDF Using Python Code
If one is a developer or has a close coding background, programming is a good way for XML to PDF conversion as it gives full control over the process. Here’s a basic step-by-step outline using Python scripts:
Step 1: Start importing required resources.
import xml.etree.ElementTree as ET
from fpdf import FPDF
Step 2: Parse the XML file
tree = ET.parse('file.xml')
root = tree.getroot()
Step 3: Initialize PDF object
pdf = FPDF()
pdf.add_page()
pdf.set_font(‘Arial’, size=12)
Step 4: Copy and Paste to PDF
for element in root:
pdf.cell(200, 10, txt=f”{element.tag}: {element.text}”, ln=True)
Step 5: Save the PDF
pdf.output('output.pdf')
The FPDF library is exploited here to convert the above XML content into a PDF form. You can style it using formatting if you wish or use XSLT stylesheets for styling.
You can also use Python to convert xHTML to PDF; however, the scripts may differ from the one provided here.
Why Smart Solution Over Manual Method?
- Manual techniques are best for simple XML files, not for nested, complex, and large data files.
- Also, it requires following the same process for each file to convert XML to PDF format.
- Manual methods don’t offer 100% guarantee of a successful process with a maintained structure.
- Technical knowledge required for smooth XML to PDF conversion.
Method 4: Best and Safest XML to PDF Converter
As we explained, the mentioned solution is the perfect technique for large, nested, and invalid XML files. It even supports multiple data files in bulk at the same time. It offers different features and filters, which make it the first choice of experts and users. Also, there is no need for technical knowledge to convert XML to PDF format. We have explained the capabilities and working steps in the coming paragraph:
Features of the Tool to Open XML in PDF Format
- The XML to PDF converter offers 15+ different document and database saving options like SQL Script, SQLite, DBF, JSON, ACCDB, MDB, DB, Parquet, YAML, PDF, HTML, DOC, DOCX, TXT, XLSX, XLS, and CSV.
- Also, it works with all types of XML files, including invalid, nested, complex structures, and large data files easily.
- It preserves original file structure, elements, and formatting during the XML to PDF conversion.
- Also, this software can convert multiple XML files in bulk at the same time without repeating the same steps.
- It’s 100% safe and secure results and it works without an internet connection.
Related Blog:
Convert XML to DOC
Convert XML to JSON
Convert XML to HTML
Convert XML to XLSX
How to Convert XML to PDF Format? Tools Steps
- Download & install, and run the XML to PDF converter tool.
- Either add XML files or add a folder that contains one or more XML files.
- If your folder has unwanted files, then you can select them and remove using the “Remove” button.
- Now, find and choose the “PDF” option as your saving type to open XML file in PDF.
- Select any location if you want to choose any other path using the “Change” button.
- After all settings, select the “Export” button to convert XML to PDF format and, select the “OK” button.
Important Note: If you have multiple document formats and want to preserve and keep them as PDF format, then download and install the SysTools Document Converter Tool.
FAQs About XML to PDF Conversion
Q) Why does my XML file show unreadable or random characters after converting to PDF?
Ans: This generally happens due to encoding issues, or the XML file may contain structured/encoded data (like Base64). And basic converters usually fail.
Q) Why do online XML to PDF converters fail with large files?
Ans: Because online converters can’t handle large or nested data files.
Q) Is it possible to convert XML with multiple languages into PDF correctly?
Ans: Manually, no, but yes, a smart solution can convert an XML file with multiple languages without modifying words.
Q) I want a feature of locking the output PDF file in the XML to PDF converter. Is it possible?
Ans: Yes, you can connect with SysTools 24*7 tech support for customization through live support.
Q) Can Python convert XML to PDF automatically?
Ans: Yes, using libraries like FPDF or ReportLab, you can script XML to PDF conversion for automation.
Conclusion
MS Word and Notepad++ applications can open XML files easily and also allows to save it as PDF format. These can handle simple XML files for conversion, but if you have a nested and complex structured XML file, then go for the automatic tool. Because it can convert multiple and all types of files into PDF format at once. Also, users can try the demo edition to convert XML to PDF format
