Google Docs can download a cloud document to your computer in formats such as Microsoft Word, PDF, plain text, and others. Choose the format based on whether you need continued editing or a fixed copy for sharing.
Steps
- Open the document in Google Docs.
- Choose File > Download.
- Select the desired format, such as Microsoft Word (.docx) or PDF Document (.pdf).
- Wait for the browser to finish the download.
- Open the browser’s Downloads list or your computer’s Downloads folder.
- Open the downloaded file in an appropriate application.
- Check page breaks, fonts, images, tables, links, and other important formatting before distributing the copy.
Download formats at a glance
| Format in File > Download | Best for |
|---|---|
| Microsoft Word (.docx) | Editing in Word or sending to someone who uses Office. See saving a Google Doc as a Word document. |
| PDF Document (.pdf) | Printing or sharing a copy that should look the same everywhere. More in saving a Google Doc as a PDF. |
| OpenDocument (.odt) | LibreOffice and other open-source editors |
| Rich Text (.rtf) | Older word processors that can’t open .docx |
| Plain Text (.txt) | Text only, with all formatting removed |
| Web Page (.html, zipped) | Posting the content on a website |
| EPUB Publication (.epub) | Reading on an e-reader |
| Markdown (.md) | Notes apps, code repositories, and blogging tools that use Markdown |
Download from Google Drive without opening the file
- Go to drive.google.com.
- Right-click the document and choose Download.
- Drive saves it as a Word (.docx) file. Select several files first to download them together as a ZIP.
Download on a phone or tablet
In the Google Docs app, open the document, tap the three-dot menu, and choose Share & export. From there you can save or send a copy as a Word file or PDF. The exact wording differs slightly between Android and iPhone.
DOCX is better for continued editing
A Word file preserves editable document structure more effectively than PDF, though complex Google Docs formatting can still change during conversion.
PDF is useful for fixed presentation
PDF is usually a better choice when recipients should see a stable layout and do not need to edit the document directly.
Downloading creates a separate copy
Later edits to the Google Doc do not automatically update a previously downloaded DOCX or PDF. Download a fresh copy when you need the latest version.
Access permissions still matter
You can download only when your account and the document owner’s sharing settings allow it. Do not attempt to bypass an organization’s restrictions on downloading or copying protected documents.
Frequently asked questions
Why is the Download option greyed out?
The owner has probably turned off downloading, printing, and copying for viewers and commenters. Ask the owner for edit access or for a copy.
Are comments included in the download?
Comments carry over into a .docx download as Word comments, but not into a PDF. See downloading comments with your Google Doc.
Can I download all my Google Docs at once?
Yes. Select them in Google Drive and choose Download to get a ZIP, or use Google Takeout to export everything in your Drive.
Can I use a Google Doc without internet instead of downloading it?
Yes. Turn on offline access in Google Drive settings, or choose File > Make available offline in the document. The file stays a Google Doc and syncs when you reconnect.
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.