Ever wished you could share important PDFs directly on your WordPress site without forcing visitors to download them first? Embedding PDFs keeps your content interactive and easy to access, whether you’re showcasing a portfolio, sharing resources, or publishing reports.
Knowing how to embed PDFs seamlessly isn’t just convenient—it also keeps your site looking professional and user-friendly. In this article, you’ll discover simple, step-by-step methods to display PDFs on your WordPress site like a pro.
Related Video
How to Embed a PDF in WordPress: The Complete Guide
Embedding PDF files in your WordPress site can be incredibly useful. Whether you’re sharing eBooks, reports, brochures, menus, or other documents, giving visitors the ability to view PDFs directly on your pages makes your content more engaging and accessible. Let’s walk through all the ways you can embed PDFs in WordPress—both with and without a plugin—so you can choose the method that works best for you.
Why Embed PDFs in WordPress?
Adding PDFs directly to your WordPress site offers several advantages:
- Enhanced User Experience: Visitors stay on your site to view documents rather than downloading and opening them separately.
- Professional Presentation: PDFs display exactly as intended, preserving fonts, images, and layout.
- Easy Sharing and Downloading: Users can view, zoom, print, or download the files as needed.
- Compliance and Documentation: Great for publishing manuals, terms, policies, and more in a universally accessible format.
Methods to Embed PDF Files in WordPress
You have two main options:
- Embed PDFs Without a Plugin (using built-in tools)
- Embed PDFs With a Plugin (for advanced features and easier implementation)
Let’s break each approach down step by step.
1. Embedding PDFs Without a Plugin
Since WordPress 5.0 and the introduction of the block editor (Gutenberg), adding basic PDFs has become quite simple. Here’s how you can embed PDFs using core WordPress features:
Using the File Block
The File block is the built-in WordPress tool for adding downloadable files—including PDFs.
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Navigate to the post or page where you want to insert your PDF.
- Click the “+” button to add a new block.
- Search for and select the File block.
- Upload your PDF or choose an existing file from the Media Library.
- The File block displays a link to your PDF. Depending on browser support, some visitors may also see a preview.
Key Points:
- The File block is very basic—by default, it offers just a link and a download button.
- Not all browsers will display an inline preview; users may have to download the PDF to view it.
Using the Embed Block (with iframes)
If you’d like to display the PDF directly on the page rather than just offer a download, you can use an HTML block and wrap your PDF in an “. This lets users see and scroll through the PDF within your page.
How to Do It:
- Upload your PDF to the Media Library and copy the file URL.
- Add a Custom HTML block where you want your PDF to appear.
- Paste the following code, replacing the URL with your actual PDF link:
“`html
“`
Advantages:
– No plugin needed.
– More control over width and height.
Drawbacks:
– Limited features (e.g., no zoom or page navigation).
– Some browsers or devices may limit display.
2. Embedding PDFs With a Plugin
If you want more control, enhanced user experience, or extra features (like pagination, zoom, or inline viewing on all devices), plugins are the way to go. Popular plugins add a PDF viewer directly to your pages and posts, making them viewable much like a YouTube video.
Popular Plugins to Consider
- PDF Embedder
- Google Drive Embedder
- PDF Viewer for WordPress
- PDF.js Viewer Shortcode
What These Plugins Offer:
- Visual PDF viewer with page navigation, zoom, search, and more.
- Responsive design that adjusts for mobile and desktop users.
- Often support embedding via blocks or shortcodes.
- Additional controls like print, download, or restrict options.
General Steps to Embed a PDF Using a Plugin
Every plugin will have its own workflow, but most follow a similar pattern:
- Install and Activate the Plugin
- In your WordPress dashboard, go to Plugins > Add New.
- Search for your chosen PDF plugin.
-
Click Install, then Activate.
-
Upload Your PDF
- Go to the post or page where the PDF will appear.
- Use the plugin’s block or shortcode to insert your PDF.
-
Upload the file or select it from the Media Library.
-
Customize the Display
- Set width, height, and viewer options (like zoom and navigation).
-
Some plugins let you restrict downloading or printing.
-
Preview and Publish
- Preview your post or page to ensure the PDF viewer displays correctly.
- Publish or update the page.
Example: Using the PDF Embedder Plugin
Many find PDF Embedder especially easy to use:
- Once installed, you’ll see a new block or shortcode option.
- Insert the PDF Embedder block and upload/select your PDF.
- Adjust viewer settings as needed.
Benefits of Using a Plugin vs. Manual Embedding
With a Plugin:
- Professional viewing experience.
- Device-responsive layouts.
- Enhanced controls (search, zoom, navigation).
- Less technical—no direct code handling.
Without a Plugin:
- No extra software or configuration.
- Quicker for simple needs.
- No potential plugin conflicts.
Which Should You Choose?
- For short, simple sharing (like handouts or one-page flyers), the native block or iframe may suffice.
- For ongoing needs, longer documents, or enhanced features, a plugin is usually worth it.
Important Tips and Best Practices
1. Optimize Your PDFs
- File Size: Large PDFs slow your site! Compress them before uploading.
- Accessibility: Use clear text, add document titles, and ensure PDFs are readable by screen readers.
- File Naming: Use descriptive, simple filenames (e.g., “Annual-Report-2024.pdf”).
2. Mind Copyrights and Security
Only embed files you own or have permission to share. Avoid posting sensitive or private information in public PDFs.
3. Consider SEO
PDFs can be indexed by search engines. Add meta info in your PDF (title, author, subject) for better visibility.
4. Mobile Friendliness
Test how your PDF viewer appears on phones and tablets. Many plugins are responsive—but always check.
5. Prevent Unwanted Downloads
- Some plugins let you hide the viewer’s download/print option.
- Remember that anything viewable online can usually be saved or printed by determined users.
Troubleshooting and Common Challenges
1. PDF Not Displaying Inline:
Check for typos in the file path. Not all browsers support built-in PDF viewing.
2. “File Block” Too Basic:
Try a viewer plugin for a richer, interactive experience.
3. Plugin Conflicts or Errors:
Deactivate other plugins and test again. Try clearing your site cache.
4. Large PDFs Load Slowly:
Compress PDFs using tools like Adobe Acrobat, SmallPDF, or any online compressor.
5. Issues on Mobile Devices:
Check your plugin’s settings for mobile or use a different plugin designed for responsiveness.
Cost Tips
Most PDF embedding needs can be addressed for free, either by using WordPress’ built-in blocks or a reputable free plugin. However, if you require premium features (like advanced security, analytics, or white-labeling), some plugins offer paid versions. Evaluate your needs before deciding.
- Basic Embedding: Free.
- Premium Plugins: Typically range from $20 – $80 per year (if you upgrade).
- No Shipping Costs: All files are digital, so there’s no shipping or handling expenses.
Concluding Summary
Embedding PDFs in WordPress is straightforward, flexible, and highly beneficial. For simplest use, start with the built-in File block or an HTML iframe. For better control and an enhanced reading experience, opt for a dedicated PDF plugin. Always ensure your PDFs are optimized, accessible, and tested across devices. Choose the method that best fits your needs, and your WordPress site visitors will appreciate easily viewing and downloading documents straight from your pages.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I embed a PDF in WordPress without using a plugin?
Yes! You can use the WordPress File block to add a downloadable PDF or use a Custom HTML block with an iframe for inline viewing—no plugin required.
2. What is the best plugin to embed PDFs in WordPress?
Popular choices include PDF Embedder, PDF Viewer for WordPress, and PDF.js Viewer Shortcode. Each offers different features, so test a few to see which suits your needs best.
3. Will embedded PDFs work on mobile devices?
Most modern PDF viewers—especially plugin solutions—are mobile responsive. Always preview your pages on phones and tablets to ensure the experience is smooth.
4. How can I make sure my PDFs load quickly on my website?
Compress your PDF files before uploading to keep them small, and use an optimized, responsive plugin. Avoid embedding very large documents unless necessary.
5. Can I prevent visitors from downloading or printing the PDF?
Some PDF plugins allow you to disable or hide download and print buttons. However, determined users may still find ways to save copies, so use this as a deterrent, not a guarantee.
Empower your site by making PDFs easy to view, share, and download—your users will thank you!