Can I convert a .pub file to PDF without Publisher?

Yes. Import it into BrochureBoss, then use Print / PDF and choose Save as PDF.

Will the PDF look like the original?

Close. Text, pictures, colors and layout come across well; WordArt, some spacing and vector clip art don’t, and fonts you don’t have are swapped. You can fix things before you print.

Is there a direct PDF download?

Not yet. Printing goes through your browser’s print window, which is what embeds the fonts.

Guide

Convert a .pub file to PDF

Need a PDF of an old Publisher file for the print shop, or just to email it? BrochureBoss opens the .pub in your browser, lets you fix anything that didn’t convert, and prints a PDF with the fonts embedded.

Try a sample, no account Open BrochureBoss

Free during the beta. A free account is needed to import your own files. Dates from Microsoft.

How to do it

Open BrochureBoss and make a free account.
Choose Import .pub and pick your file.
Check the list of anything that was skipped and fix what matters.
Click Print / PDF and choose Save as PDF in your browser’s print window.

Running to the edge of the paper? Turn on bleed and crop marks before you print, and the print shop gets what it needs.

Straight talk: the import is an editable approximation, not a pixel-perfect copy. Text, pictures, colors and positions come across well. WordArt, some spacing and vector clip art don’t, fonts you don’t have are swapped for close matches, and the app lists everything it skipped.

Tips for a clean PDF

Fonts like Arial and Times New Roman can’t be embedded in a PDF. Switch that text to one of the app’s own fonts so the printer sees what you saw.
Pictures should be about 300 pixels per inch at the size they print.
Colors are RGB. Most print shops convert to CMYK on their end; ask for a proof if color matters.

Still have Publisher?

If you have a boxed copy that still runs, File > Save As > PDF works too. Keep that PDF next to the .pub so you can compare it with the BrochureBoss import.

Questions

Can I convert a .pub file to PDF without Publisher?
Yes. Import it into BrochureBoss, then use Print / PDF and choose Save as PDF.
Will the PDF look like the original?
Close. Text, pictures, colors and layout come across well; WordArt, some spacing and vector clip art don’t, and fonts you don’t have are swapped. You can fix things before you print.
Is there a direct PDF download?
Not yet. Printing goes through your browser’s print window, which is what embeds the fonts.
Is it free?
Yes, during the browser beta.