PDFSmaller vs iLovePDF

An honest comparison of two popular PDF tools. Spoiler: One is actually free, the other just says it is.

Feature
PDFSmallerYou're here!
iLovePDF
🔥 Password ProtectionNEW
✓ Custom RC4 128-bit encryption✓ Standard encryption
Price
Free ForeverFree with limits / $6-9/month
File Size Limits
100MB per file15-100MB (free) / 2GB (paid)
Daily Usage Limits
Unlimited2-3 tasks per hour (free)
Batch Processing
Unlimited files1 file (free) / Multiple (paid)
Watermarks
Never adds watermarksNo watermarks
Registration Required
NeverRequired for some features
Cloud Storage
Not needed (local)Google Drive, Dropbox
🔒 Privacy & Security
Files never leave your deviceFiles uploaded to servers
Processing Location
Your browser (100% private)Their servers
Internet Required
Only to load the siteAlways (uploads required)
Processing Speed
Instant (no uploads)Depends on upload speed
API Access
Coming soonPaid API available
Desktop App
Works offline in browserWindows/Mac app
OCR
✓ Free✓ With limits
PDF Editor
✓ Free✓ Premium feature
Digital Signatures
✓ Free✓ Premium feature

Why Choose PDFSmaller

  • Custom-built encryption engine - Real password protection, built from scratch
  • Truly unlimited - no hidden restrictions or hourly limits
  • Your files never leave your device - 100% privacy
  • No account needed - just open and use
  • Works offline once loaded - no constant internet needed
  • All features free forever - no premium upsells

When iLovePDF Might Work

  • You need cloud storage integration (Google Drive, Dropbox)
  • You want a desktop application
  • You need API access for developers
  • You prefer server-side processing

The Real Cost Difference

PDFSmaller

$0

Forever. Seriously.

• Real PDF encryption included
• Unlimited files
• All features included
• No credit card required
• No trial period - it's just free

iLovePDF

$6-9/mo

For full features

• Free tier: 2-3 tasks per hour
• File size limits on free tier
• Premium needed for batch processing
• Annual billing for best price

What Users Say

"Finally, a PDF tool that doesn't make me create an account or limit me to 2 files. PDFSmaller just works!"

- Happy PDFSmaller User

"iLovePDF is good but hitting the hourly limit when you're in a rush is frustrating. Wish the free tier had more."

- iLovePDF Free User

Ready to Try Real Free?

No credit card. No account. No limits. Just PDF tools that work.

* Comparison accurate as of 2025. iLovePDF is a trademark of iLovePDF. We're not affiliated with them - we just think you deserve better than artificial limits.