How to print multiple PDFs at once on Linux
Sure, `lp *.pdf` works. But if you want a queue, per-file ordering, duplex, and N-up without writing a bash script, here's the GUI-free, install-free way to batch print on any Linux desktop.
No credit card. Files never leave your machine.
The fastest way to do it
Open PrintMultiplePDFs.com in Firefox or Chromium
Works on Ubuntu, Fedora, Debian, Arch, Pop!_OS, Mint — Wayland or X11.
Drag the folder into the queue
Files are flattened in alphabetical order. Use the GTK or KDE file picker if drag-and-drop is awkward on your DE.
Click Print
The browser opens your CUPS print dialog. Pick the printer, set duplex/N-up, and the whole stack runs end to end.
Why people get stuck doing it manually
- `lp` loses per-file settings between documents.
- Evince, Okular, and Atril each open every PDF before printing.
- There's no 'select all → Print' in Files/Nautilus or Dolphin.
- Print Conductor and FolderMill are Windows-only.
- AppImage/Flatpak batch printers exist but have inconsistent CUPS support.
How PrintMultiplePDFs.com compares
| Feature | Manual (one by one) | PrintMultiplePDFs.com | Adobe Acrobat |
|---|---|---|---|
| Batch print without lp scripting | |||
| GUI queue with reordering | Partial | ||
| Works with CUPS | |||
| No install required | |||
| Free to start |
Platform-specific notes
CUPS web interface (advanced)
If you prefer CLI: `lp -d PrinterName -o sides=two-sided-long-edge *.pdf` runs an unattended duplex batch directly.
Wayland clipboard caveat
On some Wayland compositors, drag-from-Files needs a delay. If files don't drop in, use the file picker button instead.
Frequently asked questions
Isn't `lp` enough?+
If you're comfortable in the terminal, `lp *.pdf` works — but you lose per-file settings, ordering, and progress feedback. The browser tool gives you a queue and one print dialog for the whole batch.
Does it work without a desktop environment?+
It runs in a browser, so you need at least Firefox or Chromium. For headless servers, stick with CUPS and `lp`.
Which distros are supported?+
Any distro with a modern browser: Ubuntu 22.04+, Fedora 38+, Debian 12, Arch, Pop!_OS, Linux Mint. Wayland and X11 both work.
Does it work with CUPS network printers?+
Yes. The browser routes through your system print dialog, which pulls from CUPS — IPP, AirPrint, and shared printers all appear.
What about printers added via avahi/Bonjour?+
If CUPS sees them, the browser dialog sees them. No extra config needed.
Can I script this for cron jobs?+
For unattended print jobs, use `lp` with `-o` flags — that's the right tool. PrintMultiplePDFs.com is for interactive batches where you want a UI.
Related guides
Print your whole stack — in one click.
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