---
title: "3 simple ways to convert DocSend links to PDF"
lang: en
canonical_url: https://www.papermark.com/blog/docsend-to-pdf
last_updated: 2026-05-18
published: 2025-03-20
category: [document-sharing]
author: "Marc Seitz"
summary: "Learn different methods to convert DocSend documents to PDF format, including using Papermark as a secure alternative for document sharing."
---

# 3 simple ways to convert DocSend links to PDF

When you receive a DocSend link and need to convert it to PDF, there are several approaches you can consider. Here's a comprehensive guide on your options:

## Method 1: Screenshot to PDF

The simplest method to convert a DocSend document to PDF is using screenshots:

1. Open the DocSend link
2. Take screenshots of each page
3. Combine screenshots into a PDF using tools like:
   - Adobe Acrobat
   - Preview (Mac)
   - Microsoft Office
   - Online PDF converters

**Note**: This method may result in lower quality and isn't ideal for text-heavy documents.

## Method 2: Print to PDF

If you have access to view the DocSend document:

1. Open the document in your browser
2. Use the browser's print function (Ctrl/Cmd + P)
3. Select "Save as PDF" as the destination
4. Click Save

**Note**: Some DocSend security features might prevent this method from working.

## Method 3: Use Papermark Instead

Rather than converting DocSend links to PDF, consider using Papermark as a more secure and efficient alternative:

- Open-source platform
- Free to use
- Similar tracking features
- Better security controls
- Custom branding options

## Why Choose Papermark Over DocSend?

> **"Never lose access to your documents by using custom domains in Papermark and redirecting file instead"**

**Enhanced Security Against Downloaders**: Unlike DocSend, Papermark documents are protected from unauthorized downloading tools for three key reasons:
1. **Different API Target**: Download tools typically target DocSend's specific links and API, not Papermark's infrastructure
2. **Page-by-Page Loading**: We only load the specific page that the visitor is currently viewing, preventing bulk downloads
3. **Context Restrictions**: Right-click and other context menu actions are restricted when pages are loaded

- **Cost-Effective**: Free plan available with generous features
- **Self-Hosting**: Deploy on your own infrastructure
- **Advanced Analytics**: Track viewer engagement
- **Custom Domains**: Share documents using your domain
- **Security**: Enhanced document protection features

## Best Practices for Document Sharing

Instead of converting DocSend links to PDF, which might bypass security measures, consider:

1. **Requesting Direct PDF**: Ask the sender for a PDF version
2. **Using Secure Platforms**: Choose platforms like Papermark for secure sharing
3. **Maintaining Security**: Respect document sharing intentions
4. **Track Analytics**: Use built-in tracking features

## FAQ

### How do I download a document from DocSend?

While DocSend restricts direct downloads, you can: \n1. Request a PDF version from the sender\n2. Use the print to PDF function if enabled\n3. Consider using Papermark instead for more flexible document sharing

### Can I convert DocSend to PDF without losing quality?

The quality of DocSend to PDF conversion depends on the method used. The best options are:\n1. Requesting the original PDF from the sender\n2. Using high-resolution screen capture tools\n3. Using a secure document sharing platform like Papermark that maintains document quality

### How do I save a DocSend presentation?

DocSend presentations are designed to prevent saving, but you can:\n1. Ask the sender for a downloadable version\n2. Use browser print functions if allowed\n3. Switch to Papermark for secure document sharing with download options

### Is it possible to bypass DocSend security?

While there might be ways to bypass DocSend security, it's not recommended as it may violate terms of service and security intentions. Instead, consider:\n1. Requesting proper access from the sender\n2. Using secure alternatives like Papermark\n3. Respecting document sharing permissions

### How do I track document views like DocSend?

Papermark offers comprehensive tracking features including:\n1. Page-by-page analytics\n2. Viewer time spent\n3. Geographic location data\n4. Device and browser information\n5. Email domain tracking

### What are the best DocSend alternatives?

Popular DocSend alternatives include:\n1. Papermark (Open-source, free)\n2. Google Drive (Limited features)\n3. Dropbox (Paid)\n4. OneDrive (Limited features)\nPapermark offers the most similar features to DocSend while being free and open-source.

### How secure is DocSend compared to alternatives?

While DocSend offers security features, Papermark provides:\n1. Custom domains\n2. Email verification\n3. Password protection\n4. Link expiration\n5. Domain restrictions\n6. Self-hosting options for maximum security

### Can I share DocSend files with non-DocSend users?

Yes, DocSend allows sharing with non-users, but recipients face limitations. Papermark offers more flexible sharing options with:\n1. No recipient account required\n2. Customizable access controls\n3. Better viewing experience

### How do I revoke access to shared documents?

Both DocSend and Papermark allow you to revoke access. In Papermark:\n1. Go to document settings\n2. Disable the share link\n3. Change access permissions\n4. Set new expiration dates

### Can I customize the viewing experience?

Papermark offers extensive customization options:\n1. Custom branding\n2. White-labeling\n3. Custom domains\n4. Viewer interface adjustments\n5. Watermark customization

### How do I protect sensitive documents?

To protect sensitive documents, Papermark offers:\n1. NDA requirements\n2. Email verification\n3. Password protection\n4. Domain restrictions\n5. Access expiration\n6. Dynamic watermarking

### What analytics are available for shared documents?

Papermark provides detailed analytics including:\n1. Viewer engagement metrics\n2. Time spent per page\n3. Download tracking\n4. Geographic data\n5. Device information\n6. Email domain insights

### How much does document sharing cost?

Cost comparison:\n1. Papermark: Free, open-source\n2. DocSend: Paid subscription required\n3. Other alternatives: Various pricing tiers\nPapermark offers enterprise features at no cost.

### Can I host document sharing on my own servers?

Yes, Papermark offers self-hosting options allowing you to:\n1. Maintain complete data control\n2. Deploy on your infrastructure\n3. Customize security measures\n4. Scale as needed

### What happens to my documents after sharing?

With Papermark, you maintain full control:\n1. Track all access attempts\n2. Revoke access anytime\n3. Set automatic expiration\n4. Monitor document usage\n5. Maintain version control

## Conclusion

While converting DocSend to PDF is possible, using a secure document sharing platform like Papermark provides better features and security. It offers similar functionality to DocSend while being open-source and more cost-effective.

## Related Resources

- [Create Link to Document](https://www.papermark.com/help/article/create-link-to-document)
- [Document Security Features](/security.md)
- [Custom Domain Setup](https://www.papermark.com/help/article/how-to-add-custom-domain-to-link)

---

_Markdown version of [this article](https://www.papermark.com/blog/docsend-to-pdf) for AI agents and LLMs._
_More Papermark content: [llms.txt](https://www.papermark.com/llms.txt) · [full index](https://www.papermark.com/llms-full.txt)._
