How would I convert a HTML5 / CSS3 document to PDF?

Question

We're currently generating reports for our web application using html5 / css3, and they look good on screen, but obviously when the user hits print who knows what is going to come out of the printer. So, what I would like to know is what is the best way to convert these reports to PDF for download / printing while maintaining the same visual quality of the on screen reports.

Update 2010-10-26 16:01: We're using both .NET and Perl

Answer 1

The only think I can think of that might work is wkHTMLtoPDF. It's a QT app that sits on top of WebKit to generate its PDF.

The good news is that it even evaluates JS so just about anything goes.

The other good news is that QT is available across a wide selection of platforms. Whatever you might be using, chances are you can use QT.

Answer 2

There is a node module html5-to-pdf that works pretty well.

Is free and open source.

It runs on Electron. There are some bugs (for example anchor tags render the hyperlink as well) - but it might be an easy fix.

Answer 3

ExpertPdf (www.html-to-pdf.net) supports html5 / css3.

You can try the online demo here: http://www.html-to-pdf.net/free-online-pdf-converter.aspx

Answer 4

Try Prince XML, the results are pretty to look at.

Answer 5

Some options (all proprietary):

• Aspose.Pdf for .NET: Expensive, very good though.
• Winnovative HTML to PDF Converter: I've already use their tool, gets the job done.
• ExpertPDF: Another good one.

For open-source alternatives, please see here:

Open Source HTML to PDF Renderer with Full CSS Support

Answer 6

If you are using some of the new HTML5 elements like Canvas, then probably even the popular PDF converter wont help you.

I suggest you to put suitable print-friendly version of your CSS. This could be achieved by using media="print" attribute in the <link rel="stylesheet"... tag of a separate CSS file, which is containing the definitions for print version.