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LightPDF vs Smallpdf: Which Free PDF Editor is Your Perfect Match?

There are various PDF Editors that you can find online, two of the popular options includes LightPDF and Smallpdf. Both of these tools possess almost identical features, including editing, converting PDFs, and compressing files. However, how do they compare in terms of ease of use, features, and restrictions? Choosing the right tool, whether you prioritize simplicity, speed, or advanced editing features, can be challenging. In this article, we’ll examine the key differences between LightPDF and Smallpdf to help you find the perfect match for your PDF editing needs.

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lightpdf vs smallpdf

LightPDF vs Smallpdf: Which is which?

1. Table Comparison

Here’s an overview of the side-by-side comparison of both apps before we jump into the rest of the post.

ItemsFeaturesSmallpdfLightPDF
PricingPro: US$11.58/month✔ Free (with paid options)
Work on systemsWeb, Windows, iOS, Android✔ Web, Windows, Mac, iOS, Android
OCRBuilt-in OCR✔ (Pro feature)✔ (Free and Built-in)
Dark ModeDark mode for reading
Compare PDFSide-by-side PDF comparison
AnnotationsManage the annotation list
Rich Text EditingAdd rich text by dragging and dropping
Batch ProcessingBatch processing (conversion, compression, etc.)
AI AssistantSummarize and analyze PDFs✔ (ChatPDF, more interactive features)
Online CollaborationReal-time collaboration on PDFs
Free Cloud StorageFree storage for documents
Other FunctionsCompress, remove passwords, add watermarks✔ (Includes watermarking, page numbering, and redaction)

2. LightPDF vs Smallpdf: Who has the Edge?

LightPDF is available on most platforms such as web, desktop, and mobile devices. While Smallpdf focuses more on web services. From this alone, we can say that LightPDF has already the slight edge over Smallpdf. Plus, there are other useful functions that are not provided by Smallpdf such as free OCR functions, darkmode browsing, rich text editing and free cloud storage. To dig deeper, here are some key-points that would help you determine which of these tools is the best PDF editor.

Advanced Features that Smallpdf Lacks


• Interface and usability:
LightPDF comes with neat, simple, and properly categorized interface. Making it is easier to go around and it loads faster making it suitable for novice to pro users. Smallpdf’s interface on the other hand might be overwhelming for first time users due to it complex UI.


• Advanced AI Integration: While both apps start to integrate AI capabilities. LightPDF’s AI-Driven features runs smoothly and offers added AI functions that can create mindmaps and analyse documents. Smallpdf also has fair AI functions that you can utilize.


• Performance and Speed: LightPDF stands out for its ability to manage large files efficiently. Being a cloud-based service, it allows users to upload, convert, and edit documents swiftly without straining their system resources. Additionally, the absence of restrictions on file size or the number of documents in its free version makes LightPDF an attractive option for those who regularly handle multiple PDFs. However, Smallpdf’s daily limit on documents for free users can hinder productivity, as they might have to wait 24 hours to process additional files or choose to upgrade to the paid version to remove these limitations.


• Security and Privacy: The LightPDF utilizes SSL encryption for file uploads and automatically deletes them after a set period of time to ensure once privacy. Plus, it doesn’t require account creation for free users, thus less personal information is exposed during usage. Same is true with Smallpdf. However, free users must create an account first exposing more personal information. And temporarily stored documents might cause privacy concern for some users.


• Pricing and Limitations: LightPDF offers free usage, making it a perfect option for those who avoids monthly fees and occasional users. It also doesn’t aggressively promote premium features and truly allows full access of all its Free PDF editor without hidden charges and restrictions. A desktop version is also available for those who opt to work offline. Smallpdf only offers 7 days free trial. Free users are restricted to 2 tasks per day only, and OCR features is considered premium function so it’s prohibited to use. Its premium version is indeed comprehensive, but it may not be worth it for casual users just need a PDF editor once in a while.

3. Why LightPDF Could Be Your Best Match?

lightpdf tools

LightPDF is a strong contender for anyone looking for a free, yet jampacked PDF application to use. Here is the recap of its notable advantages:
• No need to sign-up for free users
• No limitations on number of documents and file size
• Full access to all tools and features without a premium account
• Fast processing of files regardless of the document size
• Continuous update of to meet AI advancements

 

4. FAQs About Smallpdf

smallpdf

• Can I use it for free?
Yes, but the free version has limited features. Like two documents are only allowed to be processed per day, including a hefty compression for trial users. So, you might need to upgrade for full access which is quite expensive. Instead, you can opt to use LightPDF which offers free and budget-friendly paid features.


• Is it safe?
Yes, Smallpdf uses SSL encryption to ensure your files are safe during processing. However, an immediate sign up before using the free trial will force you to provide more personal info. In this case, using LightPDF is much safer since it doesn’t require immediate registration and it is available in desktop version.


• Is it fast?
Smallpdf may not perform well with a slow internet connection. Additionally, working on multiple files simultaneously can further impact its speed. Since LightPDF is available on different platforms slow internet connection is not a hindrance in utilizing all of its features.


• Is it equipped with an OCR function?
Yes, but only in the Pro version, so free users won’t have access. While upon using LightPDF OCR function can be accessed as soon as you open the app.

5. Conclusion

Upon going through the rest of the content, we can arguably say that LightPDF is a perfect match for those who are looking for a fully-featured tool to edit PDF and other PDF related functions. Aside from the fact that you can access it on most of your devices, you can also take advantage of all of its tools without compromising your privacy and without any restrictions. So, if you’re looking for a robust and easy to use PDF editor with no string attached, then LightPDF is the clear winner.

Rating:4.3 /5(based on 14 ratings)Thanks for your rating!
Posted by: Ryan on to PDF Editor.Last updated on October 23, 2024

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