How to Export a WhatsApp Chat to HTML
PDF is perfect for printing and filing — but if you want something you can scroll, search, and open on any device, an interactive HTML export is the better choice. Here is how to create one, and when to use it.
Why export to HTML instead of PDF?
A PDF is a fixed, paginated document — great for printing or attaching to an email. An HTML export is a living web page: it reflows to any screen size, keeps your chat in authentic WhatsApp-style bubbles, and lets you use your browser's built-in Ctrl/Cmd + F to jump to any word instantly. For a long group chat with thousands of messages, that searchability alone is worth it.
Most online converters only output PDF. WaChat2PDF produces both PDF and interactive HTML from the same export, and does it entirely in your browser.
Step 1 — Export the chat from WhatsApp
On iPhone: open the chat → tap the contact or group name → Export Chat → choose Attach Media (to include photos and videos) or Without Media.
On Android: open the chat → tap ⋮ → More → Export chat → choose Include media or Without media. WhatsApp creates a .txt file (or a .zip if you included media).
Step 2 — Upload it to WaChat2PDF
Open WaChat2PDF and drop in the .txt or .zip file. Nothing is uploaded to a server — the file is parsed locally in your browser. You will see an instant preview of the conversation rebuilt in WhatsApp style.
Step 3 — Choose HTML export
In the export options, pick HTML. WaChat2PDF generates a single self-contained page with your messages, timestamps, and embedded media. Save it anywhere — your computer, a cloud drive, or a USB stick — and open it in any browser, online or offline.
HTML vs PDF: which should you pick?
- Pick HTML if you want to scroll and search the whole conversation on screen, keep it as a digital archive, or revisit it on a phone or tablet.
- Pick PDF if you need a fixed document to print, bind into a keepsake book, or attach as legal evidence or to a business record.
You don't have to choose just one — export both from the same chat.
Is HTML export private?
Yes. Because WaChat2PDF converts in your browser, your conversation never touches a server. If privacy is your priority, read more about converting WhatsApp to PDF without uploading.
Ready to convert your WhatsApp chat?
Try WaChat2PDF freeFrequently asked questions
Can I open the HTML file offline?
Yes. The exported HTML is self-contained, so you can open it in any browser without an internet connection — your messages and embedded media are all included in the file.
Will images and videos show in the HTML export?
If you exported the chat "with media" from WhatsApp, images and videos are embedded inline in the HTML exactly where they were sent. A text-only export shows attachment placeholders instead.
Is the HTML export searchable?
Yes. The HTML contains real text, so you can press Ctrl+F (Windows) or Cmd+F (Mac) in your browser to instantly find any message, name, or keyword.
Does exporting to HTML upload my chat anywhere?
No. WaChat2PDF parses and converts your chat entirely in your browser. Nothing is sent to, stored on, or read by a server.