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PDF Rendering Options

Control how web content is rendered into PDF format, including scaling and background graphics.

Rendering Parameters

Scale (scale)

  • Default: 1
  • Range: 0.1 to 2
  • Example: scale=0.8
  • Default: false
  • Description: Include background colors and images
  • Example: printBackground=true

Usage Examples

// Basic rendering
https://cdn.capture.page/KEY/HASH/pdf?url=https://example.com

// With backgrounds
&printBackground=true

// Scaled for smaller file
&scale=0.75

Scale Factor Guide

ScaleUse Case
0.75Reduced file size, good balance
1.0Default, full quality
1.25Enlarged text, easier reading

Scale affects text size, image resolution, file size, and page layout.

Enable for:

  • Marketing materials, presentations
  • Designed layouts with branding
  • Visual reports

Disable for:

  • Text documents, legal papers
  • High-volume printing (saves ink)
  • File size optimization

Best Practices

Match Output Intent:

  • Digital archive: scale=1&printBackground=true
  • Print handout: scale=0.9&printBackground=false
  • Email attachment: scale=0.75&printBackground=false

Balance Quality and Size: Use scale 0.75-0.9 for good quality with smaller files.

Note: Websites may have print-specific CSS (@media print) that automatically applies during PDF generation.

Troubleshooting

Missing Backgrounds: Ensure printBackground=true, check for print CSS overrides

Text Too Small/Large: Adjust scale (scale=1.25 to enlarge, scale=0.8 to reduce)

Large File Sizes: Reduce scale or disable backgrounds

See Also