DOC/DOCX and PDF are two of the most common document formats used to distribute digital documents. While many apps and online PDF editors are available now, many people still prefer to convert PDF to Word.
In this guide, we will show you 4 ways how to convert PDF to Word on Mac for free. Convenient online method or third-party software - pick the one that you like the most.
PDF Candy
PDF Candy is a platform that offers various tools for working with PDF files. It provides features like PDF conversion, compression, editing, and more. You can access these tools through a browser without needing to install any software.
How to convert PDF to DOC on Mac with PDF Candy
- Open the online PDF to Word converter.
- Click "Add file(s)" and import your PDF (from a device or Dropbox/Google Drive cloud storage). If you are working on multiple documents, you can sort them alphabetically.
- Press the "Convert" button to begin processing.
- Download the output or upload back to cloud. You can also share them via a shareable URL link with a QR code.
Advantages:
- Versatile Tools. PDF Candy offers a wide range of features, including conversion, merging, splitting, providing a comprehensive solution for various PDF-related tasks.
- User-Friendly Interface. The application boasts an intuitive and easy-to-navigate interface, making it accessible to people of all skill levels.
- Online Accessibility. As a web platform, PDF Candy allows you to access its tools from any internet-connected device without the need for a program installation, enhancing convenience and flexibility.
- Security. The service does not store any input or output files. You can control whether they will be deleted automatically within two hours of processing or immediately after the job is finished.
Disadvantages:
- Limitations. If you're not logged in, only two operations per hour are available.
Adobe Reader
Adobe Reader is a widely used software for viewing, printing, and annotating. The program allows you to open PDFs, search for text, add comments, fill out forms, digitally sign documents, and save PDF as Word.
How to convert PDF to DOCX on Mac with Adobe Reader
- Install the application on your Mac. Open the PDF you want to change.
- Go to the "File" menu and choose the "Save as ..." option.
- At the bottom of the new window, check the "Convert to" box and pick "Microsoft Word (.docx)" from the list of available formats.
- Select a location for the new file and proceed to save.
Advantages:
- Comprehensive Features. This program provides features for viewing and annotating PDF, making it a versatile choice for various tasks.
- Security. The software includes robust security features to protect sensitive documents, such as password encryption and digital signatures.
- Cross-Platform. Adobe Reader is available for multiple platforms, including Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS, allowing users to access and work with PDF across different devices seamlessly.
Disadvantages:
- Limitations. The PDF to Word conversion requires a free trial or a paid subscription.
- Resource Intensive. The app can be resource-heavy, especially on older or less powerful devices, leading to slower performance or longer loading times.
- Size. The installation size is relatively large compared to simpler PDF viewers, which may be a concern for those with limited storage space.
Clever PDF
Clever PDF is a user-friendly application designed for managing documents and images on your iMac or MacBook. This intuitive software enables you to combine PDFs, secure documents with encryption, extract images, and add watermarks effortlessly.
Additionally, it offers features for turning PDFs into different formats and vice versa, including DOC/DOCX.
How to convert PDF to Word on Mac using Clever PDF
- Download the program from the App Store or the official website. Install and launch it.
- Choose the "PDF to Word" tool.
- Hit the "Add" button to import the PDF(s).
- In the "Output Settings" menu, you can pick whether you want to convert PDF to DOCX or DOC format.
- Specify the "Output Folder" and press "Start" to initiate the processing.
- Locate the file in the folder you picked earlier.
Advantages:
- Versatility. The converter offers a wide array of functions for editing, such as splitting, compressing, and page rotating, catering to diverse PDF-related needs effectively.
- Simple and Friendly Interface. Its intuitive design ensures accessibility regardless of your level of expertise, facilitating smooth navigation and operation.
- Availability. With options for both desktop and online usage, there is a possibility to select the method that aligns best with their requirements and preferences.
Disadvantages:
- Limitations. The free version of the program only allows to process 3 pages for each file.
iLovePDF
iLovePDF is a practical platform for handling and modifying PDFs on Mac or Windows. It offers tools to merge files, encrypt documents, shrink sizes, and add page numbers, suitable for both casual and professional workflows.
The service also allows format changes, including exporting PDFs to Word, Excel, or PowerPoint, and turning other formats into PDF.
How to convert PDF to Word on Mac with iLovePDF
- Visit the official website.
- Choose the "PDF to Word" option from the main menu.
- Import your original by dragging it into the window or hitting "Select PDF file."
- Click "Convert to Word" to begin the transformation.
- Download the result to your device once the process is complete.
Advantages:
- All-in-one features. The platform supports splitting, rearranging pages, adding watermarks, and signing documents digitally, providing a versatile toolkit.
- User-friendly interface. Its simple layout allows anyone to work efficiently without prior experience.
Disadvantages:
- Limits on free access. The no-cost plan restricts daily tasks and the number of files, so frequent users may need a subscription for full functionality.
DOC vs DOCX
The choice of format can significantly impact compatibility, features, and overall experience. Two common extensions for Microsoft Word are DOC and DOCX. Understanding the differences between these two is essential for effectively managing and sharing documents.
Below, we compare the DOC and DOCX extensions across various criteria to help you make informed decisions when choosing between them.
| Aspect | DOC (Legacy Word Document) | DOCX (Modern Word Document) |
|---|---|---|
| Format Type | Binary | XML-based |
| Introduced | Microsoft Word 97–2003 | Microsoft Word 2007 and later |
| Size | Generally larger due to binary structure | Smaller, more efficient storage |
| Compatibility | Supported by older Word versions | Fully supported by modern Word; limited on very old versions |
| Editing Features | Basic, fewer modern tools | Supports advanced elements, styles, and media |
| Corruption Risk | Higher chance of corruption | More resilient, easier recovery |
| Macros | Can contain VBA macros | Can contain macros if saved as DOCM |
| Performance | Slower with complex documents | Faster loading and saving, better for large files |
While DOC remains compatible with older Word versions, DOCX offers enhanced features, better compression, and improved security. By considering factors such as compatibility, size, and editing capabilities, users can select the most suitable format for their specific needs, ensuring seamless workflow.
Why convert PDF to Word?
- Word documents are easier to edit than PDFs.
- Allows for adjustments to layout, fonts, and styles.
- Facilitates commenting and tracking changes in Word.
- Extract and reuse text or images without manual retyping.
- Word files are often more accessible for screen readers.
- Simplifies integration with other Word-based workflows.
- Avoids the need for specialized PDF editing software.
PDF to Word: FAQ
Will the converted Word document look exactly like the original PDF?
In most cases, the result will closely resemble the original PDF, especially regarding text content. However, differences in formatting, layout, and font styles may occur due to variations between the PDF and Word. Complex graphics, tables, or specialized fonts may not translate perfectly, requiring manual adjustments after conversion. It's essential to review the converted document carefully to ensure accuracy and make any necessary changes.
Can I convert password-protected PDF files to Word?
Most tools do not support directly processing password-protected PDF files. However, if you have the password to unlock the PDF, you can first remove the password protection with PDF editing software or online tools. Once it is removed, you can continue as usual. Ensure that you have the necessary permissions to remove the protection beforehand
How accurate are online converters?
The accuracy of the online PDF to Word converter can vary depending on factors such as the complexity, the quality of the algorithms, and the presence of text in images. While some online options provide satisfactory results, others may struggle with maintaining formatting or recognizing text accurately. This is especially true for complex documents or those with intricate layouts.
Can I convert scanned PDF documents to Word?
Yes, it's possible to PDF documents that consist of scanned images using the Optical Character Recognition technology. OCR software recognizes text and turns it into editable files. Many tools, both online and offline, offer OCR capabilities. However, the accuracy may vary depending on the quality of the scan and the effectiveness of the OCR engine.
Can I convert Word back to PDF?
Yes, it is a common and straightforward process. Most document-editing software, including Microsoft Word, have built-in options to save or export documents as PDF files. Additionally, various online and offline tools are available for converting Word to PDF, offering convenience and flexibility.
Conclusion
In conclusion, converting PDF to Word on Mac offers flexibility for paper management. Through tools and apps outlined in the article, you can seamlessly switch between formats to suit your needs.
By understanding the nuances of each method and considering factors like compatibility, file size, and editing capabilities, users can confidently navigate the process.
Other ways to work with PDF on macOS
If you found our instructions on how to convert a PDF on a Mac helpful, you should check out our other services and features for working with PDFs.
- Merge PDF with images for more convenient file sharing and storing.
- Convert PDF to PPT if you prefer keeping a document in a presentation format.
- Sign PDF – use this simple tool to add a signature to your work files. You can draw it, type it in, or upload an image.
- Use the "Rearrange PDF pages" tool to customize the order of the sheets in your documents.
- Extract text from PDF to edit and use in a different document type.
