How to export WhatsApp chat as PDF

Complete guide with multiple methods and troubleshooting

7-10 min read
Expert Verified
Last Updated: August 2025

Quick Answer

To export a WhatsApp chat as a PDF, you can use the built-in export feature in WhatsApp to email the chat to yourself and then convert it to PDF using various methods. This process allows you to save important conversations in a portable format for easy sharing and archiving.

Medium⏱ 7-10 min read

Prerequisites & Requirements

Before exporting a WhatsApp chat as a PDF, ensure you have the following:
  • •A smartphone with WhatsApp installed (iOS or Android) and an active account.
  • •Access to email or a cloud storage service (like Google Drive or Dropbox) for sending the exported chat.
  • •A computer with a PDF converter installed, if you plan to convert the exported chat to PDF on your PC.
  • •Sufficient storage space on your device for the exported chat file.

Method 1: Exporting via Email

This method is straightforward and works on both iOS and Android devices. It is ideal for users who want to quickly export chats without additional software.
  • •Step 1: Open WhatsApp and navigate to the chat you want to export.
  • •Step 2: Tap on the contact's name or group title at the top of the screen to open the contact info page.
  • •Step 3: Scroll down and select 'Export Chat'.
  • •Step 4: Choose whether to include media files or not. Selecting 'Without Media' will create a smaller file.
  • •Step 5: Choose your email app from the share menu and send the chat to your email address.
  • •Step 6: Open your email and download the attached .txt file.
  • •Step 7: Use a PDF converter (like Adobe Acrobat or an online converter) to convert the .txt file to PDF.
  • •Step 8: Verify the conversion by opening the PDF file to ensure all content is intact.
  • •Step 9: If the PDF does not appear correctly, try using a different PDF converter.

For Windows 11

On Windows 11, you can use the built-in Microsoft Print to PDF feature.
  • •After downloading the .txt file, open it in Notepad.
  • •Press 'Ctrl + P' to open the print dialog.
  • •Select 'Microsoft Print to PDF' as the printer and click 'Print'.
  • •Choose the location to save the PDF file.

For Windows 10

The steps are similar to Windows 11, but ensure you have the latest updates installed.
  • •Open the .txt file in Notepad.
  • •Press 'Ctrl + P' to open the print dialog.
  • •Select 'Microsoft Print to PDF' and click 'Print'.
  • •Save the PDF file to your desired location.

Method 2: Using Third-Party Apps

This method is useful for users who want a more automated solution or additional features.
  • •Step 1: Download a third-party app like 'WPS Office' or 'PDF Converter' from the App Store or Google Play Store.
  • •Step 2: Open the app and select 'Import' to upload the .txt file you exported from WhatsApp.
  • •Step 3: Follow the app's instructions to convert the file to PDF.
  • •Step 4: Save the PDF file to your device or cloud storage.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter problems during the export process, consider the following solutions:
  • •Error: 'Export Failed' - Solution: Ensure you have a stable internet connection and sufficient storage space.
  • •Issue: PDF file is empty or missing content - Fix: Check if you selected 'Include Media' when exporting the chat.
  • •Problem: Unable to open the .txt file - Workaround: Try using a different text editor or re-export the chat.

Advanced Tips & Shortcuts

Enhance your experience with these advanced tips:
  • •Keyboard shortcut: 'Ctrl + A' - Select all text in Notepad for easy copying.
  • •Command line: 'pdftotext' - Use this command in Linux to convert PDF files back to text.
  • •Hidden feature: WhatsApp Web - Use WhatsApp Web to access chats on your computer for easier exporting.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls:

Expert Tips

For the best results, use a dedicated PDF converter that supports .txt files to ensure formatting is preserved.