Preview files in Dropbox

A file preview allows you to view, comment on, and share files without downloading them. You can also edit PDFs and images while previewing them. Learn more about editing PDFs in Dropbox.

To preview a file on dropbox.com or the mobile app, click the name of the file. There you will see comments, activity, and other information about the file. 

While previewing files within a folder, you can navigate between them by clicking the arrows on the sides of the screen on dropbox.com, or by swiping left or right on the Dropbox mobile app for iOS.

Not using Dropbox yet? See how Dropbox helps you effortlessly share files and folders.

Why can’t I preview my file? 

If you see an error message when you try to preview a file, visit this article.

If not, check that your file type is supported.

If your file type isn’t supported or won’t preview, you can download it to your computer and open it in an application on your computer to view it.

Why am I only seeing the first page of my file? 

If you’re trying to preview one of the following file types, you’ll only be able to preview the first page or frame of your file. You’ll be able to see the rest of the pages if you download and open the file. 

• .numbers
• .pages
• .key
• .kth

Why is the date uploaded on my file more recent than the date modified?

Dropbox preserves the date your file was modified when you upload it through the Dropbox desktop app. For example, this can happen if you last modified a file 3 months ago but uploaded it yesterday.