Why convert AFPUB to PDF?
PDF is the universal handoff format: it locks fonts, images, and layout into one file anyone can open or send to a commercial printer. Publisher exports directly to .PDF with press features like CMYK conversion, bleed, and embedded fonts, so it is the natural output for an .afpub layout.
How to convert AFPUB to PDF
Affinity Publisher 2 EASIEST
Choose File > Export > PDF, pick a print or PDF/X preset, set bleed and CMYK if needed, then export. Use the Preflight panel beforehand to fix errors.
PDF/X-1a preset (print shops)
In the Export dialog select the PDF/X-1a preset; it embeds all fonts, forces CMYK, and flattens transparency for reliable commercial printing.
Affinity by Canva
Open the .afpub and use the same File > Export command with a PDF preset to produce a shareable or print-ready .pdf.
About these formats
An .afpub file is a page-layout document created by Affinity Publisher, Serif's desktop publishing app (now owned by Canva). It stores an entire publication in one file: pages, master…
Open .AFPUB details →
.PDF
Portable Document Format
A PDF (Portable Document Format) is a fixed-layout document that looks identical on every device - fonts, images, and layout are all embedded. Open it in any browser or the built-in viewer…
Open .PDF details →Quality & what to watch
- PDF/X-1a converts everything to CMYK and flattens transparency, so on-screen colors can shift from the RGB you designed in.
- A digital/RGB PDF keeps interactivity and screen color but is not suitable for most offset print shops.
- Fonts must be embeddable; if a font blocks embedding, Publisher outlines it or warns you in Preflight.
Frequently asked questions
Which PDF preset should I send to a printer?
PDF/X-1a (or PDF/X-4) is the safest print-ready choice; ask your printer which they prefer.
