How to convert PDF pages to PNG or JPG: resolution and format explained
Need to place a PDF page in a presentation, insert it into a document, or turn an entire PDF into a set of preview images? Converting the PDF to PNG or JPG does the job. This guide explains how resolution affects clarity and file size, when to choose PNG or JPG, and how to export only selected pages—all locally in your browser, without uploading the PDF.
Basic steps
- Open the PDF-to-image tool and choose a PDF.
- Choose PNG or JPG, set the resolution, and select all pages or a custom page range.
- Select Convert to images, then download images individually or together in a ZIP archive.
Choosing a resolution (DPI)
DPI, or dots per inch, controls the pixel density of exported images. Higher DPI produces a sharper image but also a larger file. Common choices include:
- Screen, 96 DPI: Best for web pages, previews, and messaging, with the smallest files.
- Print, 150 DPI: A versatile choice for normal printing or inserting into documents, balancing clarity and size.
- High resolution, 300 DPI: Use for zooming, high-quality printing, or further editing. Files will be larger.
If the image is only for viewing or sharing, there is no need to maximize DPI. A setting of 96 or 150 is usually enough and saves considerable space.
PNG or JPG?
Each format has its strengths:
- PNG: Lossless, with sharp text, tables, and lines. It suits text-heavy pages but produces larger files.
- JPG: Lossy and smaller, making it better for photo-heavy pages. Use the quality slider to balance clarity and size.
A useful rule: use PNG for text and charts, and JPG for photos. For a fuller comparison, read PNG vs JPG.
Export only the pages you need
You do not need to export every page. Choose Custom pages and enter a range such as 1-3, 5, 8-10. The tool renders only those pages, saving time and effort. To maintain performance on very long documents, a single conversion can render up to the first 200 pages.
What to do after exporting
If exported images are too large, use image compression to reduce them further. To make their dimensions consistent, use the image resizer. To combine the images back into a PDF, use images to PDF.
Privacy and security
Conversion uses the open-source pdf.js library and runs locally on your device. The PDF is never uploaded, and the original file is not modified.