Best free PDF tools 2026
Most PDF jobs are merge, split, or shrink. You do not need Acrobat for that. Use a browser tool, and compress the images first if the file is huge because of photos.
Ranked picks
- Free + Premium
iLovePDF is a one-stop PDF bench. Merge, split, compress, convert, and unlock files without buying Acrobat.
- Free daily limits + Pro
Smallpdf is a bench of PDF tools. Compress, merge, convert, or sign a file in the browser when you do not want to install Acrobat.
- Free
Squoosh is Google’s in-browser compressor. Drop a photo, compare codecs, and download a smaller file without sending it to a random server.
- Free + paid API
TinyPNG compresses stills with smart lossy tricks. Drop a batch, download the zip, and keep pages light.
- Free + Pro
WeTransfer moves large files when email bounces. Upload, get a link, and the other person downloads it. Free tier is enough for most one-offs.
Merge, split, compress
iLovePDF covers the everyday pack: merge, split, compress, convert. Start here for a one-off.
Smallpdf is the same job with a different free-tier shape. Compare daily limits before you batch.
If the PDF is fat because of photos, run those images through Squoosh or TinyPNG and rebuild. That beats crushing the whole PDF twice.
Sending vs editing
WeTransfer is not a PDF editor. Use it when the file is already fine and just needs to arrive.
Skip these tabs if you need legally binding signatures or a document system of record.
Verdict
iLovePDF for most browser PDF jobs. Shrink images first when scans are the problem. WeTransfer only to send.
FAQ
Is it safe to upload a PDF?+
Treat uploads as untrusted. Do not send passports, contracts with secrets, or medical scans to a random compress site. Use a local tool for those.
iLovePDF or Smallpdf?+
Both do the same jobs. Pick the one whose free limit matches how often you convert. Do not keep accounts on both.