7 Free AI to PDF Converters Online with How-to Steps (2024)

Choosing the right free AI to PDF converter can be challenging. Whether you're working on a logo design or a detailed print project, the ability to retain the intricate details of Adobe Illustrator graphics in a PDF format is very necessary. With a myriad of options available online, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. But don’t worry, your search is done here! This article is your compass, guiding you to the seven best free AI to PDF converters available in 2023, complete with step-by-step instructions to ensure a smooth and safe conversion process.

Find the Best Free AI to PDF Converter Online

what is .ai file? It's a kind of format for Adobe Illustrator Artwork files, are a type of graphics file format developed by Adobe Systems. They are unique in that they contain vector-based graphics on a single page. Unlike bitmap image data, AI files are composed of paths connected by points, which means the graphic content retains its quality even when enlarged. This format is widely used for logos and print media.

Finding the Best Free AI to PDF Converter Online

Identify the Right File Support

When searching for the best free AI to PDF converter online, the first thing to consider is the file support. The converter should be capable of handling AI files, among other formats. A converter that supports a wide array of file types is indicative of a comprehensive and adaptable tool.

Prioritize Real-Time Conversions

The next factor to consider is the availability of real-time conversions. This feature is crucial as it ensures your files are converted promptly, thereby optimizing your time.

Ensure Robust Security Measures

Security is also a critical thing to consider when choosing an online converter. Your files and personal data should be treated with the highest level of security. Opt for a converter that operates within secure data centres, equipped with electronic surveillance and multi-factor access control systems.

Focus on User Experience

Finally, the user experience should not be overlooked. The ideal converter should be user-friendly, featuring an intuitive interface and clear instructions. This ensures that the conversion process is smooth and hassle-free for all users.

Below are the 7 best Free .ai to PDF Converters online. We hope you will have things done with one of them easily.

#1 Cloudconvert - AI Converter

If you are hunting for an all-around, competent online free AI to PDF converter that can efficiently transform your AI files to PDFs, look no further. CloudConvert has carved a niche for itself in the realm of online conversion tools. Crafted with an intuitive interface and many options to handle your file conversions, this AI Converter serves as the perfect match for your needs.

Key Features

Wide Format Support：CloudConvert supports over 200 file formats, making it an incredibly versatile tool for various conversion needs.

Robust Data Security：With a commitment to data security, CloudConvert ensures your files remain private and safe at all times.

High-Quality Conversions：This tool is renowned for providing high-quality conversions, with a range of customization options to meet your unique needs.

Powerful API：CloudConvert provides a robust API for custom integrations, ideal for high-volume users and developers.

How to Convert AI to PDF with Cloudconvert - AI Converter?

Converting your AI files to PDF with Cloudconvert is an easy process. Here are the steps for AI to PDF converter:

Step 1: Open the Cloudconvert website.

Step 2: Click on 'Convert'.

Step 3: Once the conversion is complete, you can download your PDF file.

#2 Zamzar - Converter Online

Among the plethora of online AI to PDF converter tools, Zamzar occupies a noteworthy position. This tool does not merely serve as a converter but emerges as an indispensable ally for digital conversions, especially when the task at hand is converting AI files to PDFs. With a clean and user-friendly interface, Zamzar makes file conversion an intuitive process, enabling both novices and professionals to navigate with ease.

Key Features

Real-time Conversions: Enjoy faster file conversions with real-time processing, ensuring swift results.

Top-notch Security: All hardware is housed in highly secure data centers, equipped with advanced electronic surveillance and multi-factor access control systems.

Extensive File Support: Benefit from support for over 1100 file-conversion types, guaranteeing that your files are handled accurately and effectively.

Commitment to Data Protection: Zamzar values your trust in safeguarding your files and personal information, handling data with utmost responsibility.

How to Convert AI to PDF with Zamzar?

Navigating Zamzar for AI to PDF conversion is an easy feat. Here are the simple steps to achieve a successful conversion:

Step 1: Begin by opening the Zamzar website on your browser.

Step 2: Click on the ‘Choose Files' button to upload your AI file.

Step 3: The output format should be preset to PDF. If not, select 'PDF' from the drop-down list.

Step 4: Once your AI file is uploaded, click on the 'Convert Now' button. Zamzar will begin the conversion process.

Step 5: After the conversion is complete, download your new PDF file directly from the website.

#3 Convertio - AI to PDF

Convertio distinguishes itself with a host of benefits for AI to PDF conversions. It's not just a tool but a solution designed to make the conversion process straightforward and hassle-free. The AI to PDF converter transforms your AI files into high-quality PDFs that retain all the original characteristics, all without the need for you to download or install any software.

Key Features

Data Security and Privacy

Convertio ensures user data security and privacy, with SSL encryption and automatic deletion of files from servers after a specific period.

Batch Conversion

The software enables the simultaneous conversion of multiple AI files to PDF, saving user's time and effort.

How to Convert AI to PDF with Convertio?

Using Convertio to convert your AI files to PDFs is very easy as other tools mentioned above. Here's a step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Open your web browser and navigate to the Convertio website.

Step 2: Click the 'Choose Files' button to upload your AI file from your computer. Alternatively, you can drop the file into the upload area.

Step 3: Once your AI file is uploaded, click the 'Convert' button. Convertio will begin the conversion process promptly.

Step 4: After the conversion is complete, you can download your PDF file directly from the Convertio website.

#4 Groupdocs - Online Converter

GroupDocs, as an online AI to PDF converter, is built to provide a smooth and efficient conversion experience. It translates your AI files into PDFs swiftly and accurately, maintaining the quality and integrity of your original design. The tool is cloud-based, eliminating the need for any software download or installation. Its swift processing and conversion speed means you can convert files quickly, making it perfect for those with time constraints.

Key Features

Universal Online Conversion

Advanced Options

Secure Cloud Storage

Wide Format Compatibility

Cross-Platform Accessibility

How to Convert AI to PDF with GroupDocs?

Below are the steps to convert ai to pdf with GroupDocs:

Step 1: Go to this website.

Step 2: Either click on the designated area to select and upload your AI file or simply drag and drop the file into the specified region.

Step 3: Once the file is uploaded, click on the "Convert" button. The conversion process will begin, and your AI files will be transformed into PDF format.

Step 4: After the conversion is complete, you will immediately gain access to the download link for the resulting PDF files.

#5 Adobe - Online Converter

Adobe's online converter provides a seamless AI to PDF converter. It ensures your designs are converted into high-quality PDFs, maintaining the fidelity of the original graphics. Being a cloud-based solution, it frees you from the hassles of software installation, while its quick conversion speed makes it a suitable tool for those working against the clock.

Key Features

File Format Support: Adobe's AI to PDF online converter can handle a broad range of file formats, including vector image files and document files.

Data Security: The converter ensures that your files remain private and are automatically deleted after the conversion process.

Broad Compatibility: As a web-based service, the converter is compatible with all operating systems and doesn't require software downloads.

API Availability: The converter also offers a powerful API for custom integrations, with usage-based pricing

How to Convert AI to PDF with Adobe?

Converting AI to PDF using Adobe's online converter is a simple process. Here's a step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Open your web browser and navigate to the Adobe Acrobat online conversion tool.

Step 2: Click the 'Select a file' button to upload your AI file from your device. You can also drag and drop the file into the specified area.

Step 3: After uploading the file, click the 'Convert to PDF' button to initiate the conversion process.

Step 4: Once the conversion is complete, download the converted PDF directly from the Adobe website.

#6 Allinpdf - AI to PDF

In the contemporary digital landscape, Allinpdf has emerged as a frontrunner for online conversion tools, thanks to its potent combination of simplicity and effectiveness. This web-based AI to PDF converter excels at transforming AI files into PDFs while preserving the fine details of the original designs.

Key Features

Uncompromising Conversion Quality: Allinpdf provides market-leading conversion quality. It ensures top performance even with a variety of file formats.

Swift and Simple Conversions: A few clicks are all it takes to get your files converted within seconds, given a normal internet condition.

Secured Conversion Process: Allinpdf ensures that your files and data are deleted immediately after using the service. No one can access your files and they leave no trace once deleted.

Universal Compatibility: As a web application, Allinpdf supports all types of browsers and operating systems including Windows, Linux, and iOS.

Cloud-Based Processing:Allinpdf operates in the cloud, freeing up your computer's resources and allowing you to use the service anywhere with an internet connection.

How to Convert AI to PDF with Allinpdf?

Converting AI files to PDFs with Allinpdf is a breeze. Here are the simple steps you need to follow:

Step 1: Go to the Allinpdf website.

Step 2: Click on 'Choose File' to upload your AI file from your device.

Step 3: After the AI file is uploaded, click ‘OK’ to start the conversion process.

Step 4: Once the conversion is complete, you can download your new PDF file directly from the Allinpdf website.

#7 Online-Convert

Online-Convert is an exceptionally versatile online AI to PDF converter for converting various file types, including the conversion of AI (Adobe Illustrator) files to PDF. Comes with a simple, intuitive interface, Online-Convert makes the process of file conversion straightforward and fast. It's not just a converter, but a comprehensive tool that caters to multiple conversion needs, ensuring high-quality output in every task.

Key Features

Conversion with Quality Retention: Online-Convert assures that the quality of your original AI file will be retained in the PDF version. Whether you're working with intricate designs or simple sketches, you can trust Online-Convert to deliver high-quality PDF output.

Conversion with OCR: One of the best features of Online-Convert is its OCR (Optical Character Recognition) capability. With this feature, scanned pages will not just be converted to images, but into editable text, offering greater convenience and usability for the users.

Source Language Selection: To optimize the OCR results, Online-Convert lets you select the source language of your file. By identifying the correct language, the converter can effectively interpret the characters and symbols, thereby improving the accuracy of the text in the final PDF document.

How to Convert AI to PDF with Online-Convert?

Follow the steps below convert .ai to pdf with online-convert:

Step 1: Navigate to the AI to PDF conversion page on Online-Convert.

Step 2: Click on the "Start conversion" button to initiate the conversion process. Before that you can make some adjustments like Convert with OCR or language selection.

Step 3: Once the conversion is completed, download your PDF file to your device.

Why Need to Convert AI to PDF Files？

When it comes to converting AI files to PDF, there are several reasons and benefits to consider:

Printing Purposes

If you have artwork or drawings created in Adobe Illustrator that you want to print in physical form, converting the AI file to PDF is necessary. Printing directly from Illustrator is not possible, so a AI to PDF converter enables you to easily print the documents. PDF files preserve the original layout, graphics, and typography of the document. When converting AI files to PDF, the design integrity is maintained, ensuring that the intended visual presentation remains intact.

1. Versatility and Ease of Viewing

2. File Size Reduction

3. Preserving Design Integrity

4. Reasons to Convert PDF Back to AI

5. Extensive Editing Requirements

6. Mass Editing

FAQs

Q1: What Is the Difference Between A PDF and an AI File?

PDF files are not Adobe Illustrator (AI) files, and vice versa. AI files are vector-based graphics files created with Adobe Illustrator, used for editing and manipulating artwork. PDF files, on the other hand, are commonly used for storing, printing, and sharing content without editing capabilities

Q2: How to Open AI Files Without Illustrator?

To open AI files without Illustrator, you can follow these steps:

• 1) Download and install a third-party software like WPS Office.

• 2) Launch WPS Office and go to the "Presentation" module.

• 3) Click on "Open File" and select the AI file you want to open. WPS Office is a recommended alternative as it provides compatibility with AI files and offers additional features for efficient document management

Summary

When it comes to converting .ai files to PDF format, there are reliable online converters available, such as CloudConvert, Zamzar, Convertio, GroupDocs, Adobe's online AI to PDF converter, Allinpdf, and Online-Convert. These tools prioritize file support, real-time conversions, security measures, and user experience. They preserve intricate details of Adobe Illustrator graphics, making them ideal for logos and print projects. They offer high-quality conversions, wide format compatibility, and customization options to meet specific needs.

Aside from .ai to pdf conversion if you are looking to manage, edit or anything with your pdf file, WPS Office is the best option. You can't imagine how much you can do with WPS Office. It is all in one solution for almost everything when it comes to text, images, conversion, office work etc. Must consider if you are not willing to spend money on MS-Office.