How To Enable Auto Download of PDF files in Google Chrome Instead of Opening them [2026 Guide]

If you frequently deal with PDF files and prefer to have them saved directly onto your device rather than opening in a new tab, this walkthrough shows how to enable auto download in Google Chrome. I’ll guide you to the exact setting and help you test it in a minute.

Make sure your Chrome browser is up to date because the steps here match the latest version.

If you also need quick tips to save images from web pages, see how to download images in Chrome for a fast refresher.

Enable Auto Download of PDF files in Google Chrome Instead of Opening them [2026 Guide]

Open Chrome settings

Open your Google Chrome browser. Click the three vertical dots at the top right corner of the window, then click Settings.

On the left side of the Settings tab, click Privacy and security.

Go to PDF controls

Click Site settings inside Privacy and security. Scroll down to Additional content settings and click to expand it.

Click PDF documents.

Turn on automatic PDF downloading

Turn on the toggle labeled Download PDF files instead of automatically opening them in Chrome. With this switch on, Chrome downloads PDFs automatically whenever you click a PDF link rather than opening them in a new tab.

This makes it easier to keep PDFs on your storage for offline access.

Read More: Download Pdf Files Google Chrome

Test the setting

Find a PDF link on the web or use one you already have. Click it and confirm the file downloads directly to your default download folder instead of opening in the browser.

If you want a smoother browsing experience while you’re at it, you can also enable smooth scrolling in Chrome for easier page navigation.

Final thoughts

After you enable Download PDF files instead of automatically opening them in Chrome, PDFs go straight to your downloads with a single click. This small change saves time if you prefer keeping files locally.

If you ever want to view PDFs in-browser again, return to PDF documents and turn the toggle off.