Best Free PDF Tools 2025: Complete Comparison Guide
Looking for the best free PDF tools in 2025? We've tested and compared the top options to help you find the perfect tool for merging, splitting, compressing, and editing PDFs.
Our Top Picks
1. PDFLime
The best free PDF tool for privacy-conscious users. 100% client-side processing.
Pros:
- ✓ Completely free, unlimited use
- ✓ Complete privacy (no uploads)
- ✓ No file size limits
- ✓ Works offline
- ✓ Open source
- ✓ No account required
Cons:
- ✗ No e-signature features
- ✗ No OCR (coming soon)
- ✗ No mobile apps yet
2. Smallpdf
Popular cloud-based PDF tool with a clean interface.
Pros:
- ✓ User-friendly interface
- ✓ E-signature features
- ✓ Cloud storage integration
- ✓ Mobile apps
Cons:
- ✗ Only 2 free tasks per day
- ✗ Files uploaded to servers
- ✗ Pro costs $9/month
- ✗ Requires internet connection
Best for: Users who need e-signatures and don't mind paying
3. iLovePDF
Feature-rich PDF tool with generous free tier.
Pros:
- ✓ Many tools available
- ✓ Batch processing
- ✓ OCR available
- ✓ Desktop apps
Cons:
- ✗ Files uploaded to servers
- ✗ Free tier has limits
- ✗ Ads on free version
- ✗ Premium costs $4-7/month
Best for: Users who need OCR and many conversion formats
4. PDF24
German-based PDF tool with desktop and online versions.
Pros:
- ✓ Completely free
- ✓ Desktop version available
- ✓ Many tools
- ✓ No registration required
Cons:
- ✗ Files uploaded to servers
- ✗ Dated interface
- ✗ Slower processing
- ✗ Limited mobile support
Best for: Users who want a free desktop application
5. Sejda
Powerful PDF editor with both online and desktop versions.
Pros:
- ✓ Advanced editing features
- ✓ Desktop version available
- ✓ Good free tier
- ✓ Clean interface
Cons:
- ✗ 3 tasks per day (free)
- ✗ 200 pages/50MB limit (free)
- ✗ Files uploaded to servers
- ✗ Premium costs $7.50/month
Best for: Users who need advanced editing occasionally
Comparison Table
| Tool | Price | Privacy | Free Limits | Offline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PDFLime | Free | ★★★★★ | None | Yes |
| Smallpdf | $9/mo | ★★☆☆☆ | 2/day | No |
| iLovePDF | $4-7/mo | ★★☆☆☆ | Limited | Desktop |
| PDF24 | Free | ★★☆☆☆ | None | Desktop |
| Sejda | $7.50/mo | ★★☆☆☆ | 3/day | Desktop |
How We Evaluated These Tools
We tested each tool based on these criteria:
- Privacy: How your data is handled
- Features: Range of PDF operations available
- Pricing: Free tier limitations and premium costs
- Ease of Use: Interface and user experience
- Performance: Speed and reliability
- Limitations: File size, daily limits, etc.
Why PDFLime is Our Top Pick
PDFLime stands out as the best free PDF tool in 2025 for several reasons:
- True Privacy: Client-side processing means your files never leave your device
- Unlimited Free Use: No daily limits, no file size restrictions
- No Account Required: Start using immediately
- Open Source: Transparent and community-driven
- Works Offline: Process PDFs without internet
Frequently Asked Questions
Are free PDF tools safe?
It depends on how they work. Tools like PDFLime that process files locally are completely safe. Cloud-based tools require uploading your files, which poses privacy risks even if they claim to delete files afterward.
What's the best free PDF tool for privacy?
PDFLime is the best choice for privacy because all processing happens in your browser. Your files never touch a server, making it impossible for anyone to access your documents.
Can I use these tools for commercial purposes?
Yes, PDFLime is free for both personal and commercial use. Other tools may have restrictions or require business licenses for commercial use.
Do I need to install software?
PDFLime works entirely in your web browser with no installation required. Some other tools offer desktop applications if you prefer installed software.
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