PdfUtility vs iLovePDF
iLovePDF is one of the biggest names in online PDF tools, with a large suite that includes conversions, OCR, and workflow automation. It earns its popularity — but its free tier comes with monthly task caps on core tools and an ad-supported experience, with the full product behind a Premium subscription.
PdfUtility takes a narrower, deeper cut: the nine PDF tasks people actually do every week — merge, split, compress, edit, sign, watermark, rotate, protect, unlock — completely free, with no task caps, no ads, and no watermarks.
| PdfUtility | iLovePDF | |
|---|---|---|
| Core tools (merge, split, compress…) | Free, no task caps | Free with monthly caps (e.g. Merge 25/month, Split 1/month), unlimited on Premium |
| Max file size | 100 MB | 100 MB free on most tools, up to 4 GB on Premium |
| Ads | None | Ad-supported free tier; ad-free on Premium |
| Watermarks on output | None | None on core tools |
| Account required | No — every tool works as a guest | Required for some features and higher limits |
| Price for unrestricted use | Free | Premium from ~€5/month (billed annually) |
| Tool breadth | 9 core PDF tools | 25+ tools incl. PDF↔Word/Excel conversion, OCR, workflows |
| File retention | Auto-deleted within 24 hours | Auto-deletion policy per their privacy terms |
iLovePDF details checked against public pricing information in July 2026. Plans change — verify current limits with the vendor.
Pick iLovePDF if…
- You need file conversions (PDF to Word, Excel, JPG) or OCR — PdfUtility does not offer conversion tools.
- You want desktop and mobile apps with cloud sync across devices.
- Your team needs workflow automation or API access at scale.
Pick PdfUtility if…
- You do everyday PDF tasks — merging, compressing, signing — and keep hitting free-tier caps or upsell screens.
- You want a fast, ad-free experience without creating an account.
- You care about a clean output: no watermarks, no branding, ever.
Try it — free, no signup
Thirteen PDF tools with no task caps, no ads, no watermarks. Files auto-delete in 24 hours.
Start with MergeFrequently asked questions
Is PdfUtility really free with no catch?
Yes. All nine tools are free with no task caps, no watermarks, and no ads. Files up to 100 MB, deletable at will and auto-deleted within 24 hours.
Can PdfUtility convert PDF to Word like iLovePDF?
No. PdfUtility focuses on nine core PDF tasks and does not offer format conversion or OCR. If conversion is your main need, a suite like iLovePDF is the better fit.
Are these iLovePDF details current?
Competitor details were checked against iLovePDF’s public pricing page in July 2026. Plans change — verify current limits with the vendor.