How to Print to PDF After CreatePDF Desktop Printer Retirement
Question details
The user needs a cost-effective way to print documents to PDF from desktop applications like Microsoft QuickBooks after their Adobe CreatePDF desktop printer was discontinued, to avoid paying for an unnecessary full Acrobat subscription.
- Product
- Adobe Acrobat
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Printing documents and reports to PDF format directly from third-party desktop applications like Microsoft QuickBooks.
- Observed behavior
- The CreatePDF Desktop Printer has been retired, preventing the user from printing to PDF unless they upgrade from an Adobe PDF Pack to a more expensive full Acrobat subscription.
Check your operating system's default printers, as modern versions of Windows already include a built-in virtual PDF printer that is completely free to use.
Use the Native Microsoft Print to PDF Feature
Windows 10 and 11 include a built-in virtual PDF printer that is free and works flawlessly with desktop applications like QuickBooks.
Instead of purchasing an expensive Adobe Acrobat subscription to replace the retired CreatePDF Desktop Printer, you can use the free virtual printer integrated directly into the Windows operating system. This acts exactly like a physical printer but saves the output as a PDF file.
Open your desktop application (e.g., Microsoft QuickBooks) and navigate to the file, invoice, or report you wish to save as a PDF. Click on 'File' and select 'Print', or press 'Ctrl + P' on your keyboard.
In the Print dialog box, click the Printer Name dropdown menu. Scroll through the list and select 'Microsoft Print to PDF' instead of your physical hardware printer.
Click the 'Print' button. A 'Save Print Output As' window will appear. Choose a destination folder on your computer, type a name for your file, and click 'Save'.
Upgrade to a Full Adobe Acrobat Subscription
If you require advanced PDF printing features or prefer to stay within the Adobe ecosystem, you must upgrade your Adobe PDF Pack.
Easily Create and Export PDFs with WPS Office
Avoid expensive recurring subscriptions for basic document creation. WPS Office provides a comprehensive, built-in PDF toolkit that allows you to seamlessly create, edit, and convert documents to PDF natively, completely eliminating the need for paid virtual printers.
- 1. Open Your Document: Launch WPS Office and open the text document, spreadsheet, or presentation you want to convert into a PDF.
- 2. Access the Export Tool: Navigate to the top menu bar, click on the 'Menu' button in the top left corner, and select 'Export to PDF' from the dropdown list.
- 3. Customize and Save: Adjust your preferred export options such as the page range or save location, then click the 'Export' button to instantly generate your high-quality PDF file.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was the CreatePDF Desktop Printer retired?
Adobe discontinued the CreatePDF Desktop Printer to consolidate its software services. The desktop virtual PDF printing features have been moved exclusively into their higher-tier Acrobat subscription plans.
Can I still use my Adobe PDF Pack subscription?
Yes, you can still use the Adobe PDF Pack, but it no longer supports the desktop virtual printer feature. It now functions primarily as an online service for converting and combining files via a web browser.
Are there other free alternatives to print to PDF from QuickBooks?
Yes. Aside from the built-in 'Microsoft Print to PDF' on Windows 10 and 11, you can install trusted, free third-party virtual PDF printers that allow you to print from QuickBooks without paying for a monthly subscription.
