CHM to PDF

Convert CHM Help Files to PDF

CHM files are Microsoft's Windows Help format. They contain software documentation, manuals, and reference guides compiled into a compressed HTML archive. While CHM files work well on Windows, they do not open on Mac, Linux, iOS, or Android without special software. Converting a CHM file to PDF makes the content readable on any device and platform.

This tool reads your CHM file directly in the browser, extracts the embedded HTML content, and renders it in a clean print-friendly format. You can then save the result as a PDF using the browser print dialog. No file uploads, no server processing, 100% private.

Upload your CHM file, review the extracted content in the preview, and click Save as PDF.

What Is a CHM File?

CHM stands for Compiled HTML Help. Microsoft introduced this format in 1997 to replace the older WinHelp format. CHM files bundle HTML pages, images, JavaScript, and a table of contents into a single compressed file with the .chm extension.

Software developers use CHM files to package help documentation with their applications. When a user presses F1 in a Windows application, a CHM help file typically opens. The Windows Help Viewer reads the .chm format natively.

Outside of Windows, CHM files cannot be opened without installing special reader software. Converting to PDF eliminates this dependency.

Why Convert CHM to PDF?

Cross-platform reading. PDF opens on every operating system and device without special software. Mac and Linux users cannot open CHM files natively.

Printing documentation. CHM viewers do not always support clean printing of multi-page content. PDF is the standard for printing structured documents.

Archiving technical documentation. PDF is a stable, long-term archival format. CHM files depend on the Windows Help Viewer, which may not be supported in future Windows versions.

Sharing with clients or teams. Sending a PDF is universally compatible. Recipients do not need Windows or any specific software to read it.

Mobile access. Technical staff who need to reference documentation on a smartphone or tablet can access a PDF but cannot open a CHM file on a mobile device.

How to Convert CHM to PDF

Step 1 - Upload your file. Drag and drop your .chm file onto the upload area, or click to browse.

Step 2 - Preview the content. The tool extracts HTML content from the CHM file and displays it in the preview.

Step 3 - Save as PDF. Click the Save as PDF button. In the print dialog, set Destination to Save as PDF.

Step 4 - Download. Click Save in the print dialog to download your PDF.

Related Tools

• HTML to PDF - Convert HTML files to PDF.
• Merge PDF - Combine converted section PDFs into one document.
• Compress PDF - Reduce the size of large documentation PDFs.

Frequently Asked Questions