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7 Best Smallpdf Alternatives (2024)

Last Updated: Mon Jan 06 2025

In our search, we've found that people looking for a Smallpdf alternative often run into these problems:

  • Needing to pay for most of the advanced features.
  • Issues with converting files to different formats.
  • Limited uses in the free version of Smallpdf.
  • Ads in the free version.

If you're here, you're probably dealing with these same frustrations. We've looked into the best PDF editors out there and have picked out the 7 best alternatives to Smallpdf (that don't have these problems).

Top 7 Alternatives to Smallpdf:

1. Supatool

Supatool Overview

Supatool offers robust and comprehensive PDF management, streamlining document workflows with its advanced features. Catering specifically to professionals seeking efficient document handling, Supatool stands out in the crowded PDF editor market by combining user-friendliness with powerful tools.

Supatool Key Features

  • PDF and Document Generation: Create and manage PDFs effortlessly.

  • Editing and Annotation Tools: Advanced options for editing and annotating documents.

  • Integrated Cloud Storage: Easy access and storage of documents.

  • Batch Processing Capabilities: Manage multiple documents simultaneously.

  • Cross-Platform Compatibility: Works seamlessly across various platforms.

  • Robust Security Features: Ensures the safety and confidentiality of documents.

Supatool Pros

  • Comprehensive document and PDF management.
  • Enhanced productivity with batch processing and cloud integration.
  • Versatile editing and annotation options.
  • Robust security features for document protection.
  • Cross-platform compatibility enhances accessibility.

Supatool Cons

  • Some advanced features might require a learning curve.

Supatool Pricing:

Starter: $49 p/mo

Business: $249 p/mo

Enterprise: Custom

Smallpdf vs Supatool

Matter of DifferenceSmallpdfSupatool
Feature SetOffers basic PDF functionalities like activity tracking, annotations, batch processing.Focuses on comprehensive PDF/document generation, editing tools, and integrated cloud storage.
User Interface & ExperienceHighly intuitive with drag-and-drop functionality and an organized interface.Advanced, but may be overwhelming for new users due to its extensive feature set.
Customization OptionsLimited, with no mobile app or offline editing capability.Robust, including batch processing capabilities and cross-platform compatibility.
Pricing & PlansFree; Pro: $9/month; Team: $7/month; Business: Custom.Starter: $49/month; Business: $249/month; Enterprise: Custom.
Customer Support & ResourcesOnline-first design preferred by users, but security concerns raised.Emphasizes document protection with robust security features, enhancing user trust.

2. PDF-Xchange Editor

PDF-Xchange Editor Overview

PDF-Xchange Editor stands out as a versatile and user-friendly alternative for PDF editing and management. Offering a balance of advanced features and ease of use, it caters to both professional and personal PDF editing needs.

PDF-Xchange Editor Key Features

  • Comprehensive Editing Tools: Extensive options for modifying PDF content.

  • OCR Capability: Converts scanned documents into editable text.

  • Annotation and Markup Tools: Wide range of tools for annotating PDFs.

  • Support for Forms: Create and edit fillable PDF forms.

  • Document Security Features: Includes password protection and permission settings.

  • File Conversion Options: Convert PDFs to and from various formats.

PDF-Xchange Editor Pros

  • Extensive editing capabilities.
  • OCR feature for scanning and editing documents.
  • Robust annotation and markup tools.
  • Ability to create and edit fillable forms.
  • Strong document security features.
  • Flexible file conversion options.

PDF-Xchange Editor Cons

  • May require some time to learn all features.
  • Some advanced features are only available in the paid version.

PDF-Xchange Editor Pricing

SINGLE USER LICENSE: $56.00 p/y

3 USER PACK: $154.00 p/y

5 USER PACK: $254.00 p/y

PDF-Xchange Customer Ratings and Reviews:

G2: 4.6/5 (133+ reviews)

Capterra: 4.7/5 (249+ reviews)

Smallpdf vs PDF-Xchange

Matter of DifferenceSmallpdfPDF-Xchange
Feature SetBasic PDF tools like compression, collaboration tools, and annotations.Extensive editing tools, OCR capability, and support for forms.
User Interface & ExperienceUser-friendly with an intuitive interface and online-first design.Offers comprehensive editing capabilities but may require time to learn.
Customization OptionsLimited, especially in offline capabilities and file type conversion.Strong customization with advanced features, though some are paid-only.
Pricing & PlansFree; Pro: $9/month; Team: $7/month; Business: Custom.Single User: $56/year; 3 User Pack: $154/year; 5 User Pack: $254/year.
Customer Support & ResourcesConcerns about document security and file handling.Strong document security features, including password protection.

3. Foxit PDF

Foxit PDF Overview

Foxit PDF is a lightweight and fast PDF solution that excels in both basic and advanced document tasks. As an efficient alternative to Smallpdf, it offers features like high-quality editing, form-filling, and secure document management, making it ideal for users needing a reliable PDF tool.

Foxit PDF Key Features

  • Rapid Opening of Large PDFs: Handles large files with speed and efficiency.

  • Lightweight on Resources: Minimal impact on system performance.

  • High-Quality Editing Tools: Advanced tools for complex document tasks.

  • Offline Reading and Editing: Access and modify PDFs without an internet connection.

  • Customizable Interface: Tailor the layout to your preferences.

  • Digital Signature Integration: Secure and sign documents electronically.

Foxit PDF Pros

  • Fast and Efficient Performance: Quickly handles large PDF files with minimal lag.

  • Minimal CPU Usage: Lightweight on system resources, ensuring smooth operation.

  • Affordable Pricing: Cost-effective, offering robust features without breaking the bank.

  • Suitable for Advanced Tasks: Capable of managing complex PDF editing and document management.

  • Reliable for Digital Signatures: Securely sign and manage documents with ease.

Foxit PDF Cons

  • Occasional Bugs and Errors: Users may experience occasional software glitches.

  • Learning Curve for Some Functions: Certain advanced features may take time to master.

  • Limited Functionalities in Free Version: The free version offers fewer features compared to the paid version.

  • Pushes for Online Services: Frequent prompts to use premium or online services.

  • Discontinued Cloud Storage Service: The previous cloud storage option has been phased out.

Foxit PDF Pricing

Teams

PDF Editor Suite: $14.99 p/m

PDF Editor Suite Pro: $18.49 p/m

Individuals

PDF Editor Cloud: $6.85 p/m

PDF Editor Suite: $12.78 p/m

PDF Editor Suite Pro: $16.27 p/m

Foxit PDF Customer Ratings and Reviews:

G2: 4.5/5 (149+ reviews)

Capterra: 4.6/5 (912+ reviews)

Smallpdf vs Foxit PDF

Matter of DifferenceSmallpdfFoxit PDF
Feature SetBasic PDF tools like annotations and compression, suitable for everyday needs.Comprehensive editing suite with cloud integration, catering to advanced users.
User Interface & ExperienceIntuitive interface with easy navigation, enhanced by drag-and-drop functionality.User-friendly with a customizable interface, supporting multi-language options.
Customization OptionsLimited in terms of offline editing and mobile app availability.High customization, including interface tailoring and device syncing capabilities.
Pricing & PlansFree; Pro: $9/month; Team: $7/month; Business: Custom.Individuals: PDF Editor Cloud: $6.85/month; Teams: PDF Editor Suite: $14.99/month.
Customer Support & ResourcesOnline-first approach, but concerns over document security exist.Strong collaboration and security features, including password protection.

4. Qoppa PDF Studio

Qoppa PDF Studio Overview

Qoppa PDF Studio is a versatile PDF editor that offers a rich set of features, including document comparison, annotation, and digital signature integration. As a solid alternative to Smallpdf, it delivers high-quality performance and flexibility across multiple operating systems, tailored for both individual and business needs.

Qoppa PDF Studio Key Features

  • PDF Forms Creation: Build and edit interactive PDF forms for various needs.

  • Watermarking: Easily add or remove watermarks from documents.

  • File Size Optimization: Compress PDFs to reduce file size without sacrificing quality.

  • Customizable UI: Tailor the interface to your personal preferences.

  • Document Comparison: Efficiently compare content across multiple PDFs.

  • Accessible Support: Enjoy responsive customer service and support.

Qoppa PDF Studio Pros

  • Perpetual License Option: Avoids ongoing subscription costs with a one-time purchase.

  • Customizable Interface: Tailor the user experience to fit individual preferences.

  • Versatile Watermarking Options: Flexible tools for adding or removing watermarks.

  • Effective Customer Support: Responsive and helpful service for resolving issues.

  • Cross-Platform Support: Available on multiple operating systems, enhancing accessibility.

Qoppa PDF Studio Cons

  • Performance with Large Files: Processing large documents can lead to slower performance or lags.

  • Limited PDF to PPT Conversion: Lacks the ability to convert PDFs directly to PowerPoint.

  • Cluttered Interface: The UI might appear overwhelming to users unfamiliar with advanced PDF tools.

  • Occasional Software Lags: Users may experience slowdowns during intensive tasks.

  • Limited Mobile Functionality: The software offers fewer features on mobile platforms, reducing flexibility.

Qoppa PDF Studio Pricing

STANDARD: $50 p/mo

PRO: $70 p/mo

Qoppa PDF Studio Customer Ratings and Reviews:

G2: 4.5/5 (37+ reviews)

Capterra: 4.5/5 (58+ reviews)

Smallpdf vs Qoppa PDF Studio

Matter of DifferenceSmallpdfQoppa PDF Studio
Feature SetIncludes essential features like batch processing and collaboration tools.Offers advanced editing, OCR functionality, and digital signature support.
User Interface & ExperienceStreamlined and intuitive, suitable for non-technical users.Advanced interface, which may be complex for beginners but offers more features.
Customization OptionsLimited by the absence of a dedicated mobile app and offline capabilities.Extensive customization with advanced editing and form creation tools.
Pricing & PlansFree; Pro: $9/month; Team: $7/month; Business: Custom.Standard: $50/month; Pro: $70/month, catering to professional needs.
Customer Support & ResourcesSecurity concerns raised by users regarding file handling.Focuses on enhanced document security with digital signature and batch processing.

5. UPDF

UPDF Overview

As an alternative to Smallpdf, UPDF offers extensive PDF modification options, including document annotation, AI-powered analysis, and secure file sharing. With its user-friendly design and robust functionality, it’s well-suited for users who need a reliable and intuitive PDF editor.

UPDF Key Features

  • AI support for advanced PDF functionalities, like summarizing content.
  • PDF editing and annotation tools, including customizable editing options.
  • Performance optimization ensures fast and reliable operations.
  • Document sharing with secure cloud storage limitations.
  • Page cropping and layout adjustment for precise document formatting.

UPDF Pros

  • AI-powered features offer advanced document processing capabilities.
  • Flexible licensing options cater to both individual and business needs.
  • Performance optimization ensures fast and reliable software operation.
  • Strong customer support provides quick and effective assistance.
  • High-quality conversion maintains document integrity across formats.

UPDF Cons

  • Initial learning curve may take time to overcome for new users.
  • Performance issues when handling large or complex documents with AI.
  • Inconsistent feature availability across different operating systems.
  • Cloud storage limitations may restrict long-term document use.
  • Limited full-document translation capabilities, only supporting page-by-page.

UPDF Pricing

Individual

UPDF Pro: 52.99/ Perpetual & 32.99/ Year

UPDF Pro + UPDF AI: 83.99/ Perpetual & 65.99/ Year

UPDF AI Standard: 59.00/ Year & 9.00/ Month

UPDF AI Unlimited: 99.00/ Year & 15.00/ Month

Enterprise: 89.00 / Perpetual

Education

UPDF Pro for Individuals: 39.99/ Perpetual & 24.99/ Year

UPDF Pro for Enterprises: 69.00 / Perpetual

UPDF AI Standard: 39.00/ Year & 6.00/ Month

UPDF AI Unlimited: 79.00/ Year & 10.00/ Month

UPDF Customer Ratings and Reviews:

G2: 4.4/5 (27+ reviews)

Capterra: 3.8/5 (5+ reviews)

Smallpdf vs UPDF

Matter of DifferenceSmallpdfUPDF
Feature SetFocuses on collaboration and batch processing, ideal for team-based tasks.Emphasizes simplified editing, OCR functionality, and document conversion tools.
User Interface & ExperienceKnown for its well-organized interface and online-first approach.Renowned for its intuitive, user-friendly interface suitable for quick edits.
Customization OptionsFalls short in mobile app availability and offline editing.Offers reliable OCR and cloud integration, though lacks some advanced editing features.
Pricing & PlansFree; Pro: $9/month; Team: $7/month; Business: Custom.Individual: UPDF Pro: $32.99/year; Enterprise: $89.00 (perpetual); Education discounts available.
Customer Support & ResourcesOnline usability with some concerns about data security.Strong security measures for document protection, enhancing user confidence.

6. PDF Reader Pro

PDF Reader Pro Overview

PDF Reader Pro is a comprehensive PDF solution that enables users to create, edit, and secure their documents with features like file encryption, OCR, and annotation. As a strong alternative to Smallpdf, it offers a lightweight design and consistent updates, ensuring smooth and efficient PDF management.

PDF Reader Pro Key Features

  • PDF Creation and Editing: Create and modify PDF documents with ease.

  • Combine PDFs: Merge multiple PDFs into a single file effortlessly.

  • OCR Functionality: Efficiently handle scanned documents with optical character recognition.

  • File Encryption: Keep your documents secure with advanced encryption options.

  • Lightweight Design: Operates smoothly without taking up significant system resources.

  • Regular Updates: Benefit from continuous improvements and new feature releases.

PDF Reader Pro Pros

  • Comprehensive PDF Toolset: Offers robust features for creating, editing, and securing PDFs.

  • Easy PDF Combination: Seamlessly merge multiple documents into a single PDF.

  • Reliable OCR Function: Makes scanned documents easy to work with and edit.

  • Minimal System Impact: Lightweight application that doesn’t strain your computer's resources.

  • Constant Updates: Regular improvements keep the software efficient and feature-rich.

PDF Reader Pro Cons

  • Complex UI for Beginners: The interface may feel a bit overwhelming for first-time users.

  • Premium Features Required for Full Functionality: Advanced features like file encryption and some editing tools require the paid version.

  • Limited Customer Support: Support options might not be as extensive, especially for free users.

  • Feature Restrictions in Free Version: The free version has limited access to some of the more advanced functionalities.

PDF Reader Pro Pricing

Individuals

Free: Available

Premium License: $59.99

Permanent License: $79.99

Teams

Premium License: $224.95

Permanent License: $299.95

Education

Premium License: $29.99

Permanent License: $39.99

PDF Reader Pro Customer Ratings and Reviews:

G2: 4.7/5 (21+ reviews)

Capterra: 4.5/5 (164+ reviews)

Smallpdf vs PDF Reader Pro

Matter of DifferenceSmallpdfPDF Reader Pro
Feature SetOffers essential PDF tools like annotations and activity dashboard.Provides robust reading, editing tools, and OCR technology.
User Interface & ExperiencePraised for its drag-and-drop functionality and clear instructions.Known for comprehensive set of features, but interface may appear cluttered.
Customization OptionsLimited in terms of conversion capabilities and file type support.Versatile file conversion options, but advanced features might require payment.
Pricing & PlansFree; Pro: $9/month; Team: $7/month; Business: Custom.Individuals: Free; Premium: $59.99; Teams: Premium License: $224.95.
Customer Support & ResourcesOnline-first design but some conversion and security issues.Extensive tools including form filling and signing, with cross-platform compatibility.

7. LightPDF

LightPDF Overview

LightPDF is a free, online PDF management tool that offers a wide range of features, including conversion, compression, and editing. As an alternative to Smallpdf, it provides a user-friendly interface, supports multiple formats, and is accessible without software installation, making it ideal for quick, efficient PDF tasks.

LightPDF Key Features

  • Free Online Service: Convert documents to and from PDF without any cost.

  • PDF Compression: Reduce file sizes for easier sharing and storage.

  • Split and Merge PDFs: Combine multiple PDFs or separate them into smaller files.

  • Supports Multiple Formats: Convert between Word, PPT, Excel, JPG, and PNG.

  • No Software Download Required: Accessible directly through the website.

  • Mobile-Friendly Design: Use on tablets and smartphones for on-the-go editing.

LightPDF Pros

  • Free and Accessible: Provides a wide range of tools without any cost or registration required.

  • Fast and Efficient Conversion: Handles file conversions quickly and reliably.

  • User-Friendly Interface: Easy to navigate, making it accessible for all users.

  • Supports Multiple Formats: Capable of converting a variety of file types, including Word and JPG.

  • Mobile-Friendly: Convenient for use on tablets and smartphones, ideal for users on the go.

LightPDF Cons

  • Online tools depend on a good internet connection.
  • Does not support formats like HTML or Photoshop files.
  • The presence of ads can be distracting for users.
  • Processing times can be longer for larger documents.
  • Offline functionalities are restricted unless upgraded to VIP.

LightPDF Pricing

Personal: $19.99 p/m

Business: $79.99 p/y

LightPDF Customer Ratings and Reviews:

G2: 4.6/5 (11+ reviews)

Capterra: 5/5 (4+ reviews)

Smallpdf vs LightPDF

Matter of DifferenceForm BuilderAlternative
Feature SetOffers a range of features like activity tracking and batch processing.Provides simple editing tools, file conversion, and basic annotation capabilities.
User Interface & ExperienceKnown for its intuitive and well-organized interface with drag-and-drop functionality.Features an intuitive and simple editing interface, suitable for basic PDF tasks.
Customization OptionsLimited in mobile app availability and offline editing.Focused on user-friendliness, but lacks advanced editing options.
Pricing & PlansFree; Pro: $9/month; Team: $7/month; Business: Custom.Personal: $19.99/month; Business: $79.99/year.
Customer Support & ResourcesOnline-first approach with some conversion and security concerns.Offers OCR and cloud storage integration, though it may not meet complex editing needs.

Conclusion

Supatool stands out among Smallpdf alternatives with its comprehensive PDF management tools, advanced editing capabilities, and robust security features.

It addresses common concerns of limited functionality and ads in free versions found in other software. Its user-friendly interface and cross-platform compatibility make it an ideal choice for both professionals and casual users.

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