Sharing a PDF as a plain download link means readers have to leave your page to read it. Embedding the PDF shows it right inside your post, so readers can scroll through it without leaving.
This is useful for product catalogs, menus, cheat sheets, ebooks, reports, and printable templates. Here are three easy ways to do it, from no plugin at all to fancy flipbooks.
| Method | Cost | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Core File block | Free, built in | Quick, simple embeds |
| PDF Embedder plugin | Free (premium available) | Consistent look on all devices |
| Flipbook plugin | Free or paid | Magazines, catalogs, brochures |
Method 1: Use the Built-In File Block (No Plugin)
Since WordPress 5.8, the core File block can show PDFs inline. Here is how:
- Open your post in the block editor.
- Click the + button and add a File block.
- Upload your PDF or pick one from the Media Library.
- In the block settings on the right, turn on Show inline embed.
- Set the height and decide whether to show a download button.
- Update or publish the post.
The catch: this uses the browser’s own PDF viewer, and many mobile browsers do not show inline PDFs. Mobile visitors will see a download link instead. If most of your readers are on phones, use a plugin.
Method 2: Use the PDF Embedder Plugin
PDF Embedder is a free plugin used on hundreds of thousands of sites. It renders PDFs with its own viewer, so they look the same on desktop and mobile.
Step 1: Install the plugin
Go to Plugins > Add New, search for PDF Embedder, then click Install and Activate. New to plugins? See how to install a WordPress plugin.
Step 2: Adjust the settings
Go to Settings > PDF Embedder. Set the default width and height (Max fills the available space) and choose where the toolbar appears: top, bottom, or both, and whether it is always visible or only on hover.
Step 3: Embed your PDF
In the block editor, add the PDF Embedder block and upload or select your file. In the classic editor, click Add Media, choose your PDF, and insert it. The plugin creates a shortcode automatically.
The premium version adds a download button, full screen mode, view tracking, and options to make downloading harder. Check the plugin site for current pricing.
Method 3: Use a Flipbook Plugin
For magazines, catalogs, and brochures, a flipbook looks more engaging. Readers turn pages like a real book.
- DearFlip: a popular free 3D flipbook plugin, with a paid version for more features.
- Real3D FlipBook: a premium plugin with realistic page turning and many layouts.
- FlowPaper: free flipbook viewer with a clean design.
Other Good PDF Embed Plugins
- EmbedPress: embeds PDFs plus YouTube, Google Docs, maps, and more from one block.
- Embed Files from Google Drive: embed PDFs stored in Google Drive without uploading them to WordPress.
- PDF Viewer for WordPress: a premium viewer with many toolbar and design options.
- Wonder PDF Embed: a lightweight free option.
Which Method Should You Choose?
- Choose the core File block if you embed a PDF only now and then and most visitors use desktop.
- Choose PDF Embedder if you want PDFs to work well on mobile too.
- Choose a flipbook plugin for catalogs, magazines, and brochures.
Want to embed other media too? See how to add YouTube videos to WordPress.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can WordPress embed a PDF without a plugin?
Yes. Use the core File block and turn on Show inline embed. It relies on the browser, so it may not display on some mobile devices.
Why does my embedded PDF not show on mobile?
Many mobile browsers do not support inline PDFs. Use a plugin like PDF Embedder, which uses its own viewer that works on phones.
Can I stop people from downloading my PDF?
You can hide the download button with premium plugins, but a determined user can still save the file. Do not upload anything you need to keep fully private.
Do embedded PDFs slow down my page?
Large PDFs can. Compress your PDF before uploading and avoid putting several big PDFs on one page.
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