Quick Verdict
Use RTF when…
RTF when you need an editable, widely-compatible document that doesn't require Microsoft Word. PDF when you need a fixed-layout document that looks identical everywhere, can be signed, and shouldn't be casually edited. For modern editable documents, DOCX has largely replaced RTF.
Use PDF when…
See above for specific recommendations.
RTF vs PDF: Feature Comparison
| Feature | RTF | |
|---|---|---|
| Editable | Yes (any word processor) | Requires Acrobat Pro or similar |
| Layout consistency | Varies by application | Pixel-perfect across devices |
| Images | Supported (embedded) | Supported (embedded, vector) |
| Tables | Basic support | Full support |
| Password protection | No | Yes (128-bit/256-bit AES) |
| Digital signatures | No | Yes (X.509 certificates) |
| Max feature set | Limited vs DOCX | Full page layout, vector graphics |
| Open in | Word, LibreOffice, TextEdit, WordPad | Every browser, Acrobat, Preview |
| File size | Small to moderate | Small to large (depends on content) |
When RTF wins
- ✓Editable: Yes (any word processor)
- ✓Layout consistency: Varies by application
- ✓Images: Supported (embedded)
When PDF wins
- ✓Editable: Requires Acrobat Pro or similar
- ✓Layout consistency: Pixel-perfect across devices
- ✓Images: Supported (embedded, vector)
Frequently asked questions
Is RTF still widely used?
Decreasingly. RTF had its heyday in the 1990s and early 2000s when cross-application compatibility was a challenge. Today DOCX is universally supported by all major word processors, and PDF handles sharing and distribution. RTF persists in some legal workflows, court filing systems, and older software that explicitly requires it.
Can I convert RTF to PDF?
Yes, easily. In LibreOffice Writer: open the RTF and export as PDF. In Microsoft Word: open the RTF and print to PDF or use Save As → PDF. On macOS, open in TextEdit and print → Save as PDF. The resulting PDF will have fixed layout based on the rendering application's interpretation.
Is RTF secure for sharing sensitive documents?
No. RTF has no encryption, password protection, or access controls. Anyone who receives an RTF can freely edit it. For sensitive documents, use PDF with password protection and 256-bit AES encryption, or use a dedicated secure document platform.
What opens RTF on Mac?
macOS's built-in TextEdit opens RTF natively and preserves basic formatting. For more complex RTF files with tables and images, Pages or LibreOffice Writer provide better rendering. Microsoft Word for Mac handles RTF with full fidelity.
More comparisons
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