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How to Download PDF Attachments from Gmail Instead of Printing
Question details
The user wants to download PDF attachments from Gmail to their device, but the file triggers the print dialog instead of saving locally.
- Product
- Gmail
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Attempting to save or view a PDF attachment received via Gmail.
- Observed behavior
- Clicking the attachment opens the printer or print dialog rather than downloading the file or asking which application to use.
Ensure your web browser is fully updated and check that your printer is not set as the default destination for all downloaded documents.
Use the Correct Download Icon in Gmail
Ensure you are clicking the download button rather than the print or preview buttons on the attachment.
Gmail displays multiple quick-action icons when you hover over an email attachment. Clicking the wrong icon is the most common reason a file attempts to print instead of downloading.
Hover your mouse cursor over the PDF attachment thumbnail at the bottom of your Gmail message.
Look for the downward-pointing arrow icon (Download) and click it. Avoid clicking the printer icon next to it.
If prompted, choose a destination folder on your computer and click Save.
Change Browser PDF Handling Settings
Modify your web browser settings to force PDFs to download instead of opening automatically.
Set a Default System PDF Reader
Change your operating system's file associations to open downloaded PDFs with a dedicated PDF application.
Make WPS Office Your Default PDF Reader
Avoid browser printing glitches by setting WPS Office as your default PDF application. Enjoy a fast, lightweight reader that seamlessly handles your downloaded Gmail attachments with advanced viewing and editing tools.
- 1. Install WPS Office: Download and install the free version of WPS Office on your computer.
- 2. Change default settings: Right-click any downloaded PDF attachment and select 'Open with'.
- 3. Select WPS Office: Choose WPS Office from the application list, check 'Always use this app', and confirm to ensure all future attachments open correctly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my browser automatically print PDFs instead of displaying them?
This usually happens if you accidentally click the printer icon on the Gmail attachment, or if your browser's site settings are misconfigured to send PDF documents directly to a connected printer instead of using a built-in viewer.
How do I make my browser ask where to save PDF attachments?
You can change your browser's download behavior. In Chrome, go to Settings > Downloads and toggle on 'Ask where to save each file before downloading'. This ensures you get a prompt every time you click download.
Can I preview Gmail PDFs without printing or downloading?
Yes. Clicking the name or the center of the attachment thumbnail in Gmail will open a safe preview window within your browser. You can read the document there without triggering a print job or saving it to your hard drive.
