How to open a .pub file on a Chromebook

A Chromebook cannot open Microsoft Publisher (.pub) files by itself, and Google Drive and Google Docs cannot open them either. The easiest fix is to turn the file into a PDF, which every Chromebook can open.

The quick way: convert it to PDF in your browser

1. Open the PubToPDF converter in Chrome.
2. Wait a moment while it starts up. The first time it downloads about 50 MB.
3. Drop your .pub file onto the page, or click to choose it from your Files app or Google Drive.
4. Click Download PDF. The PDF opens in Chrome and can be printed or shared.

The conversion happens on your Chromebook. Your file is not uploaded anywhere, which is helpful for school and work files.

Other ways

Ask for a PDF

If someone sent you the file, ask them to open it in Publisher and choose File, then Save As, then PDF. That gives you the most exact copy.

Use a Windows or Mac computer

Any computer that can run the free LibreOffice program can open .pub files and save them as PDF.

Tips for school Chromebooks

Converting works inside the normal Chrome browser, so there is nothing to install. If your school blocks the page, ask your IT team whether this site can be allowed.

Will it look right?

Layout, colors and pictures usually carry over. If the original used a font that is not available, a similar one is used, so text can move slightly. Check the PDF before you rely on it.