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 Forever | Free with limits / $6-9/month |
File Size Limits | 100MB per file | 15-100MB (free) / 2GB (paid) |
Daily Usage Limits | Unlimited | 2-3 tasks per hour (free) |
Batch Processing | Unlimited files | 1 file (free) / Multiple (paid) |
Watermarks | Never adds watermarks | No watermarks |
Registration Required | Never | Required for some features |
Cloud Storage | Not needed (local) | Google Drive, Dropbox |
🔒 Privacy & Security | Files never leave your device | Files uploaded to servers |
Processing Location | Your browser (100% private) | Their servers |
Internet Required | Only to load the site | Always (uploads required) |
Processing Speed | Instant (no uploads) | Depends on upload speed |
API Access | Coming soon | Paid API available |
Desktop App | Works offline in browser | Windows/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
• 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
• 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.