PDF24
ActiveOverview
PDF24 is a free PDF solution that provides both online tools and an offline desktop application for Windows. The software enables users to perform common PDF tasks including file conversion, merging, splitting, compression, and encryption. It is designed for both individual users and businesses, with all files remaining on the user's PC when using the desktop version, ensuring GDPR compliance.
Key Features
- PDF Conversion - Convert files to and from PDF format
- File Merging - Join multiple files into a single PDF
- File Splitting - Split PDF documents into separate pages or sections
- Compression - Reduce PDF file size while maintaining quality
- Encryption and Locking - Lock or unlock PDFs with password protection
- Quality Profiles - Choose from multiple quality profiles (low, average, good, best) when creating PDFs
- Offline Desktop Application - PDF24 Creator brings all tools as an offline version for Windows
- Print-to-PDF - Virtual PDF printer for converting printed documents to PDF
Pricing
| Plan | Price | Includes |
|---|---|---|
| Free | $0 | All PDF24 tools and features, both online and desktop version |
Platforms & Requirements
PDF24 Creator is available for Windows as a desktop application. The software includes a virtual PDF printer and Windows Service component. Online tools are accessible via web browser on any platform. All files processed through the desktop version remain on the user's PC.
Integrations & Ecosystem
- Virtual PDF printer
- Command-line interface
- Windows Service backend
- Profile import/export via registry
- Batch processing through command-line tools
Alternatives
| App | Difference |
|---|---|
| Adobe Acrobat DC | Commercial software with advanced editing and collaboration features |
| LibreOffice Draw | Open-source alternative with document creation and PDF export capabilities |
| Nitro PDF | Commercial solution with enhanced editing and workflow automation |
| Foxit Reader | Lightweight PDF reader with basic editing tools and commercial pro version |
Reputation
PDF24 has been in continuous development since 2006 and is widely used by individuals and businesses. The software is appreciated for its free cost, ease of use, and comprehensive feature set. Users value the offline desktop version for privacy and GDPR compliance. Some limitations exist with profile application in certain scenarios, and the starting profile feature has documented reliability issues.
Sources (10)
- https://help.pdf24.org/en/questions/question/profile-for-all-users/
- https://tools.pdf24.org/en/creator
- https://creator.pdf24.org/manual/11/
- https://help.pdf24.org/en/questions/question/command-line-use-of-custom-all-user-profiles/
- https://help.pdf24.org/en/questions/question/pdf24-profiles/
- https://help.pdf24.org/en/questions/question/profiles-and-user-experience/
- https://help.pdf24.org/en/forums/topic/profiles/
- https://help.pdf24.org/en/questions/question/how-to-join-without-the-need-of-providing-a-profile-and-just-assemble-the-files/
- https://help.pdf24.org/en/forums/topic/use-custom-profile-in-pdf24-ocr-exe/
- https://help.pdf24.org/en/forums/topic/how-to-modify-the-default-profile/