PDF Files and HTML

PDF Files and HTML What's The Differences?

PDF

A PDF file shows what the original article looks like include graphs and page numbers. It is a portable document format created by Adobe as a method of transferring documents without being altered. Now, Adobe has released it as an open standard. To open it, you need applications like Adobe Acrobat Reader, Preview(Mac app), or any other PDF apps.

HTML

An HTML file has been computer formatted, so you don't need additional software to read the file. However, unlike pdf files, if there were images in the original article, they may not be included or even look different. HTML files are scripts that try to display to the best of its ability, but often problematic. Its output might not look exactly as the author expected. 

The Similarities and Differences

The Similarities

PDF and HTML are both one type of file format.

Both PDF-formatted and HTML articles can be searched for any words or phrases. 

The Differences

PDF file shows what the original article looks like include graphs and page numbers, but HTML files are scripts, its output might not look exactly like the original.

To read a PDF, you need applications like Adobe Acrobat Reader, Preview(Mac app), or any other PDF apps, but HTML doesn't need additional apps.

PDF files embed images within the file itself, but HTML doesn't.

HTML files usually depend on the system for fonts, but PDF ensures the accuracy of the output. 

HTML is the language of the Web, PDF retains the exact appearance of a document, no matter what OS is used to view or print it.

PDF files are single binary files, but in HTML format, the document and figures are separate files. 

PDF renders math symbols seamlessly, but HTML does not support math symbols.

In What Instances Would A PDF File Be Preferable? 

PDF is good when the file is destined for printing, particularly when there are images that should be rendered at high resolution on the printed page.

PDF is a great choice for taking fancy and beautiful newsletters. When math and special symbols are necessary, PDF format is also very useful.

In What Instances Would HTML Be A Preferred Format?

In some cases, HTML is generally much better for providing information via the web such as when your audiences are limited with PDF because it doesn't work on all platforms.

Images in PDF are embedded, so they aren't easy to pull out as a .jpg or .gif for reuse if your receivers need to do this.

PDF files are usually larger than the HTML version, so HTML is good for limited storage.

Reference

Q. What is the difference between a PDF file and an HTML file? (n.d.). Retrieved November 16, 2020, from https://answers.library.gsu.edu/faq/78984