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Convert HTML to PDF in .NET

html
pdf-conversion
net-library
html-rendering
Nikita BarsukovbyNikita Barsukov·Jan 25, 2025
⚡TLDR

To swiftly convert HTML to PDF in .NET, use DinkToPdf, a .NET wrapper for the WkHtmlToPdf command line tool. Here's a handy C# example:

var converter = new SynchronizedConverter(new PdfTools());
var doc = new HtmlToPdfDocument()
{
    GlobalSettings = { PaperSize = PaperKind.A4 }, // A4 because we're classy!
    Objects = {
        new ObjectSettings() { HtmlContent = @"<html><body>Your HTML content</body></html>" } // HTML goes here!
    }
};
byte[] pdf = converter.Convert(doc); // Bam! HTML becomes PDF
File.WriteAllBytes("result.pdf", pdf); // You've got mail...I mean, PDF!

Prerequisites: Ensure you install DinkToPdf NuGet package and include libwkhtmltox in your project directory. Adjust paper size and your HTML as fit.

Library selection: Making the smart choice

The key to converting HTML to PDF in .NET is choosing the right library. Let's break down the options:

HtmlRenderer.PdfSharp

Choose HtmlRenderer.PdfSharp for a stable, thread-safe conversion that values your CSS preferences and layout settings.

iTextSharp: Free & Premium

The free variant of iTextSharp fits small-scale HTML to PDF tasks, but keep an eye out for its limited functionality.

MVC favorites: Rotativa & TuesPechkin

Rotativa can convert Razor Views to PDF in MVC applications easily. TuesPechkin, on the other hand, syncs well with C# in a simple manner.

Supporting modern web standards

For supporting advanced HTML5 and CSS3, consider Selenium WebDriver or a headless Chrome via PuppeteerSharp.

Concurrent Conversions: Done right

WkHtmlToXSharp manages free concurrent conversions efficiently, while ExpertPdfHtmlToPdf & SelectPDF cater to diverse needs with their paid & free solutions.

Addressing common problems and techniques

IE-based converters? No, thank you!

IE-based converters struggle with modern web renderings. Stick to the others!

Special system permissions

Remember, going with headless Chrome means potential special system permissions. Prepare for it!

System compatibility

Compatibility matters! Ensure your tool is system-friendly and future updates won't ruin your day.

Using window.print()?

For simpler scenarios, you could use window.print() in JavaScript to directly generate a PDF from the browser.

NuGet to the rescue!

Using NuGet packages like Selenium.WebDriver and ChromeDriver simplifies setup and saves time.

Advanced options for complex scenarios

It's all about the layout

EO.Pdf & GemBox.Document specialize in complex document layouts, even those involving tables.

License considerations

For commercial use, BSD-UNSPECIFIED licensed libraries like HtmlRenderer.PdfSharp can add flexibility.

Customization and extension

Seek libraries with extendable functionality via plugins or custom converters to meet specific needs in the future.

Final tips for smooth conversion

Cost-conscious?

Open-source options can offer significant cost savings. Choose wisely!

Off-the-shelf vs Customization

Needed specific adjustments? Custom development can streamline the conversion process to perfection.

Learning and adapting

Keep learning! Adapting your tool choice as web technologies evolve is crucial.

explain-codes / Html / Convert HTML to PDF in .NET
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Library selection: Making the smart choiceAddressing common problems and techniquesAdvanced options for complex scenariosFinal tips for smooth conversion
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Recommended way to embed PDF in HTML?