AutoCAD PDF Presets Explained
AutoCAD ships with PDF PC3 presets designed for general documentation, high-quality printing, smallest file size, and web/mobile use. The preset affects resolution, layer information, hyperlinks, bookmarks and font/text handling.
Start here — what you are going to do
Your goal: Choose a PDF preset based on how the PDF will actually be used.
Where to start: Decide whether the deliverable is for printing, general review, file-size reduction or online/mobile use.
Beginner rule: Do not choose a preset only because its name sounds best. Higher quality can create larger, slower PDFs; smallest-file settings can remove useful data.
Step by step — follow this in AutoCAD
Step 1 — Open Plot
Where: Layout > Ctrl+P.
Do this: Open Printer/Plotter > Name.
Check: PDF preset list is visible.
Step 2 — Identify the deliverable
Where: Project requirement.
Do this: Decide print, general, smallest file or web/mobile.
Check: Use case is clear.
Step 3 — Choose a preset
Where: Printer/Plotter > Name.
Do this: Select the preset aligned with that use.
Check: Purposeful PC3 is selected.
Step 4 — Check PDF options
Where: Properties / PDF Options.
Do this: Review quality and data options.
Check: You understand the preset.
Step 5 — Preview a representative sheet
Where: Ctrl+P > Preview.
Do this: Check lineweights and detail.
Check: Appearance is correct.
Step 6 — Inspect final PDF
Where: PDF viewer.
Do this: Check file size, zoom detail, layers/bookmarks if required.
Check: Preset meets the need.
Beginner example
High Quality Print uses higher default vector/raster quality than Smallest File. A dense topo sheet intended for paper may justify the print preset, while quick email review may not.
Understand what AutoCAD is doing
| Preset | Vector quality | Raster quality | Layers | Typical purpose |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AutoCAD PDF (General Documentation) | 1200 dpi | 400 dpi | Yes | General purpose |
| AutoCAD PDF (High Quality Print) | 2400 dpi | 600 dpi | Yes | Paper-quality output |
| AutoCAD PDF (Smallest File) | 400 dpi | 200 dpi | No | Minimum file size |
| AutoCAD PDF (Web and Mobile) | 400 dpi | 200 dpi | Yes | Web/mobile viewing |
PDF data and text defaults
| Preset | Hyperlinks | Bookmarks | Capture fonts | Text to geometry |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| General Documentation | Yes | Yes | No | Yes |
| High Quality Print | Yes | Yes | No | Yes |
| Smallest File | No | No | No | Yes |
| Web and Mobile | Yes | Yes | No | Yes |
Merge Control: Autodesk lists Overwrite as the default for all four predefined PDF presets.
Presets are PC3 files
Autodesk implements PDF presets as plotter configuration files. If a predefined preset does not meet the office standard, save a customized copy under a distinct name.
Useful next guides: AutoCAD PDF (General Documentation) Preset Explained · AutoCAD PDF (High Quality Print) Preset Explained · AutoCAD PDF (Smallest File) Preset Explained · AutoCAD PDF (Web and Mobile) Preset Explained · Create a Custom AutoCAD PDF Preset
Common problems and what to check first
| What you see | What may be causing it | Check this first |
|---|---|---|
| PDF huge | Quality/data higher than needed | Compare another preset. |
| Layers missing | Smallest File excludes layers by default | Choose/configure another preset. |
| Fine detail blurry | Resolution too low or content rasterized | Test higher quality. |
| Team inconsistent | Different presets/Page Setups | Standardize named setups. |
When you need a more repeatable workflow
Create office PDF presets only when defaults do not meet requirements; document resolution, layer data, font strategy and file-size expectations.
Official Autodesk references
AutoCAD labels and available media can vary by release, driver and output device. These Autodesk pages document the core workflow used in this guide.
Frequently asked questions
Which preset has highest default quality?
AutoCAD PDF (High Quality Print).
Which targets smallest file?
AutoCAD PDF (Smallest File).
Can I create my own preset?
Yes, by customizing and saving a separate PC3.
Explore more in CAD PDF & Publishing Guide.