Convert AI to PDF
Export an Adobe Illustrator AI file as a PDF for print delivery, client approval, or universal sharing. AI files natively contain embedded PDF data — export is straightforward from any version of Illustrator.
About Convert AI to PDF
Adobe Illustrator AI files store vector artwork in a format native to the Illustrator application. Converting an AI file to PDF makes the design universally accessible across applications and print services.
From Illustrator: go to File > Save As and choose PDF from the format dropdown. In the PDF options dialog, select the Adobe PDF preset appropriate for your workflow — PDF/X-1a for offset print, PDF/X-4 for modern print workflows, or High Quality Print for general sharing. Illustrator embeds all fonts and images automatically.
To produce the smallest file size while maintaining quality, choose the Smallest File Size preset in the PDF export dialog. This reduces embedded preview quality but keeps the vector content fully intact.
If you do not have Illustrator, Inkscape can open AI files (with some limitations) and export as PDF. Upload the AI file to Inkscape, make any necessary adjustments, then go to File > Save a Copy and choose PDF.
For AI files that contain raster-placed images, ensure the source images are at 300 DPI before exporting to PDF. Vector elements scale perfectly, but placed raster images are subject to the resolution they were created at.
If you need to convert an AI file to SVG for web use or editing in non-Adobe tools, the Logo Vectorizer accepts AI-derived artwork and can re-optimise the file for web delivery.