How to Embed PDF in Email: Complete Guide for Gmail & Outlook

Want to share a PDF via email but not sure the best way to do it? You have several options: attach it directly, embed it in the email body, or share it as a link. This guide covers all methods for Gmail, Outlook, and other email clients.

Why You Might Want to Embed a PDF

Before we dive in, let's consider when each method makes sense:

• Attachment: Best for small files under 25MB
• Embedded preview: Limited support, works in some clients
• Link: Best for large files, tracking, and professional sharing

Method 1: Attach PDF to Email (Traditional)

The simplest way to share a PDF is as an attachment.

Gmail

1. Click Compose to start a new email
2. Click the paperclip icon at the bottom
3. Select your PDF file
4. Gmail will upload and attach the file

Limitations:

• 25MB maximum file size
• No way to track if recipient opened it
• Can land in spam filters

Outlook

1. Click New Email
2. Click Attach > Browse this PC
3. Select your PDF file
4. File appears as an attachment

Limitations:

• 20MB limit for Outlook.com
• 10MB limit for some corporate accounts

Method 2: Embed PDF Preview in Email

Some email clients support embedding a preview image of the PDF. However, this has limited support and isn't recommended.

Why This Usually Doesn't Work

• Most email clients strip embedded objects
• Security concerns block active content
• Renders differently across devices

Better alternative: Use Method 3 below.

Method 3: Share PDF as a Link (Recommended)

The best way to share PDFs via email is by converting them to shareable links. This method:

• Works with any file size
• Lets you track when recipients view the PDF
• Looks more professional
• Avoids spam filters

How to Create a PDF Link with Linkyhost

1. Go to Linkyhost PDF to Link
2. Upload your PDF file
3. Copy the generated link
4. Paste the link in your email

Benefits:

• View link analytics on Pro and Business
• Password protect sensitive documents
• Set expiration dates
• Works on any device

Example Email Template

Hi [Name],

Please find the document you requested:
[Your PDF Link]

Let me know if you have any questions.

Best,
[Your Name]

Method 4: Use Google Drive or OneDrive

If you already use cloud storage, you can share PDFs through these platforms.

Google Drive

1. Upload PDF to Google Drive
2. Right-click > Share
3. Set permissions
4. Copy link and paste in email

Downside: Recipients may need a Google account.

OneDrive

1. Upload PDF to OneDrive
2. Click Share
3. Copy link
4. Paste in email

Downside: Limited tracking, requires Microsoft account for some features.

Best Practices for Sharing PDFs via Email

1. Compress Large PDFs

Before sharing, reduce file size using a PDF compressor. Smaller files load faster and are more likely to be opened.

2. Use Descriptive Link Text

Instead of pasting a raw URL, use descriptive text:

❌ https://www.linkyhost.com/view/abc123 ✅ [Download Project Proposal (PDF)]

3. Test Before Sending

Always send a test email to yourself first to make sure the PDF displays correctly.

4. Consider Mobile Users

Many recipients will open emails on their phones. Make sure your PDF is mobile-friendly and the link works on all devices.

When to Use Each Method

Method	Best For
Attachment	Small files, casual sharing
Link (Linkyhost)	Professional documents; analytics on Pro and Business
Google Drive	Team collaboration
OneDrive	Microsoft 365 users

Troubleshooting Common Issues

PDF Won't Attach

• Check file size (must be under 25MB for Gmail)
• Try compressing the PDF first
• Use a link instead

Recipient Can't Open PDF

• They may not have a PDF viewer
• Share as a link instead (opens in browser)
• Check if the file is corrupted

Email Goes to Spam

• Large attachments often trigger spam filters
• Use a link instead of attachment
• Avoid suspicious link shorteners

Conclusion

The best way to share PDFs via email depends on your needs:

• Quick, casual sharing: Use attachments
• Professional documents: Use PDF to Link
• Large files: Convert to a link (free: 10MB, Pro: 100MB)
• Need tracking: Use Linkyhost Pro or Business for view analytics

Start sharing PDFs professionally with Linkyhost's free PDF tools.

Related Articles

• PDF Link Generator
• How to Compress PDFs for Email
• How to Upload PDF to Google Docs