FormatDrop doesn't convert MD to PDF yet. The methods below use free tools that do. FormatDrop's own converters cover common image, audio, video and PDF formats, all in your browser.
Other ways to convert Markdown to PDF
- 1
Pandoc (command line)
pandoc input.md -o output.pdf. Pandoc needs a LaTeX engine for PDF output, such as MacTeX, MiKTeX or TeX Live; or add --pdf-engine=wkhtmltopdf to go through HTML instead.
- 2
VS Code
Install the 'Markdown PDF' extension, open the .md file, then run 'Markdown PDF: Export (pdf)' from the Command Palette.
- 3
md-to-pdf (Node.js)
npx md-to-pdf input.md writes input.pdf next to the file, using headless Chromium and its default stylesheet. Pass --stylesheet to use your own CSS.
Why convert MD to PDF?
Markdown is for writing; PDF is for sharing. Converting Markdown to PDF turns your raw notes into polished documents without leaving the text editor.
Frequently asked questions
Best tool for Markdown to PDF?
Pandoc is the gold standard: `pandoc input.md -o output.pdf` (requires LaTeX for output). For lighter-weight: `npx md-to-pdf input.md` (Node.js, uses Chromium). VS Code with the Markdown PDF extension is great for interactive use.
How do I include syntax highlighting for code blocks?
Pandoc: `pandoc input.md --highlight-style=tango -o output.pdf`. Available styles: pygments, tango, espresso, zenburn, kate, monochrome. For HTML/CSS-based converters, use a code highlighter like Prism.js.
Can I customize the PDF layout?
With Pandoc + LaTeX, you have full control via custom .tex templates. With md-to-pdf or Markdown PDF (VS Code), use custom CSS files. For complex layouts, render to HTML first then to PDF with wkhtmltopdf or Chrome headless.
Browse FormatDrop's converters
No account. No upload. Works in any browser.