Look, SlideShare Downloader is an amazing tool. If you are going to download any SlideShare content using it, it will provide the content in three different formats: PDF, PPT, and ZIP.
But the problem is that users don't understand which one to choose between PDF and PPT. If you are also facing the same problem, then after reading this article, you will know which of these two options will be better for you.
Before explaining the differences between them in detail, let's find out what PDF and PPTX actually are.
What is PDF?
PDF, which stands for Portable Document Format, was first developed by Adobe. Here, your documents are mainly provided in a complete package, arranged in a row with electronic images. The PDF file extension is .pdf, and it can be said that it is the most popular document format used in the world.
What is PPTX?
This is also a type of file format created by Microsoft PowerPoint. PPT is also usually provided in a complete package, with various types of data arranged accordingly in the form of semi-slides. The file format of PPT is .pptx. The use of PPTs is immense in all aspects of the office, education, lectures, business, and mainly in professional work.
Major Difference Between PDF & PPTX
Comparing document formats for different use cases.
I hope you have got a little more idea about what PDF and PPT are. Now, let me share with you the difference between these two. We will make this difference from different perspectives, so I hope you will read this passage very carefully so that you can understand it well.
Compatibility
PDF: It can be accessed across all devices, whether it’s a mobile, tablet, or PC. Basically, to access a PDF, you don't need to install any special software.
PPT: To access PPT files, you need to have dedicated software in your device like PowerPoint for PC or Google Slides, WPS Office for mobile. If you don't have these, you cannot access PPT files.
Editability
PDF: PDF files are generally static, meaning that after downloading, you cannot edit them according to your preferences.
PPTX: If you download PPT files, you can edit and customize them as you like. This is a very useful feature.
Size
PDF: PDF files are generally compressed and smaller in size. This makes them quick to upload or download. However, when compressed, the quality may decrease in some cases.
PPTX: PPTX files are generally larger in size, so they are slower to upload or share. But the quality is usually much better.
Security
PDF: You can protect PDF files with a password, and it is not easy for someone without the password to open them.
PPTX: You can also set a password for PPT files, but it is easier for someone to crack compared to a PDF.
Printing
PDF: PDF files are ideal for printing because everything is arranged neatly.
PPTX: PPT files often contain animations or effects that are not suitable for printing.
So above, I have shared all the useful information about both PDF and PPT. I hope you read carefully and now know which one to use.
Which one to choose – my opinion, based on experience
In my experience, from all perspectives, PDF is better than PPT, and there is no doubt about it. However, if you are a teacher or a business analyst who has to explain information to other people, in that case PPT is better than PDF.
This is because you can easily use graphics or visual presentations in PPT, and by moving through the slides one by one, you can teach others more effectively. I hope you understand my point.
Which is safer – PDF or PPTX?
Both formats are safe in their own ways, but PDF is slightly safer than PPT. If I rate safety out of 5, I would give PDF 4.5 and PPT 4.1.
From personal experience, one day I downloaded two files, one in PDF and one in PPT format, and both were password protected. I managed to unlock the PPT with a tool, but I could not unlock the PDF. This taught me that PDF is more secure than PPT.
Conclusion
If you are unsure which format to use, I hope this article has given you the answer. If it is still not clear, contact me with your issue, and I will reply with a practical and useful answer as soon as possible. Till then, use SlideShare Downloader and download as many PPT or PDF files as you want. Thank you, and see you in another useful article.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which format is better for sharing presentations?
If you want the file to look exactly the same for everyone, PDF is better. If you want others to be able to edit it, then PPTX is better.
Does animation work in PDF?
No, animations are not supported in PDF format.
Can I convert PPTX to PDF?
Yes, you can convert PPTX to PDF using many online converter tools.
Does file size affect download speed in SlideShare Downloader?
Yes, PPTX files are larger and may take longer to download compared to PDFs, especially on slower connections.
Are both PDF and PPTX supported by SlideShare Downloader?
Yes, SlideShare Downloader supports both PDF and PPTX formats, along with ZIP, for downloading presentations.