What’s the best PDF compressor in 2024? An honest review

PDF compression has become an essential task for individuals and businesses alike, enabling efficient sharing and storage of documents without compromising on quality. With several PDF compression tools available in the market, choosing the right one can be daunting. In this blog post, we’ll honestly compare some of the most popular PDF compressors – Adobe PDF Compressor, SmallPDF, IlovePDF, PDFGear, PDF2Go, and PDF Compressor – as opposed to SaferPDF to help you make an informed decision.

1. SaferPDF Compressor

Key Features

• Works both online and offline

• Compresses documents on users’ browsers

• Safest alternative on the market

• Supports batch processing for compressing multiple files simultaneously

Pros

• Easy to use, new and flexible tool back by a team open to user feedback

• Seamless download onto all browsers

• Remarkable file quality conservation after compression

• Easy integration across multiple browsers

Cons

• Only offers PDF compressions at this time

• Limited features compared to other online compressors

• Probably slower than other compressors

Pricing

• Subscription to SaferPDF, which includes compression features, starts at $19.99 for lifetime access.

2. Adobe PDF Compressor

Key Features

• Integration with Adobe Acrobat, a widely used PDF editing software

• Offers both online and desktop versions

• Provides various compression options, including standard, high, and custom settings

Pros

• Trusted brand with a long-standing reputation in the industry

• Seamless integration with other Adobe products

• Advanced compression options for customising file size reduction

Cons

• Desktop version requires a subscription to Adobe Acrobat

• Limited free features compared to other online compressors

Pricing

• Subscription to Adobe Acrobat DC, which includes compression features, starts at $32.99 AUD per month ($224.27 AUD per year)

3. SmallPDF

Key Features

• Simple and user-friendly interface

• Offers a range of PDF tools, including compression, conversion, and editing

• Supports batch processing for compressing multiple files simultaneously

Pros

• Free to use with basic features

• No installation required; works directly in your web browser

• Integrates with popular cloud storage services like Google Drive and Dropbox

Cons

• Limited compression options compared to other tools

• File size restrictions for free users

Pricing

• Free plan with limited features

• Paid plans start at $7 USD per month when billed annually ($84 AUD annually)

4. IlovePDF

Key Features

• Comprehensive suite of PDF tools, including compression, merging, splitting, and more

• Supports multiple languages

• Allows users to preview compressed files before downloading

Pros

• Offers a free tier with access to essential features

• Fast and efficient compression process

• Integration with Google Drive, Dropbox, and OneDrive for seamless file management

Cons

• Ad-supported free version may be intrusive for some users

• Some advanced features require a premium subscription

Pricing

• Free plan with basic features

• Premium plans start at $7 USD per month when billed annually ($84 USD annually)

5. PDFGear

Key Features

• Focuses solely on PDF compression and optimisation

• Offers both online and desktop versions

• Provides customisable compression settings for balancing file size and quality

Pros

• Ensures specialised expertise in the field

• Desktop version offers offline functionality without internet connectivity

• Advanced compression options for fine-tuning results

Cons

• Limited additional features compared to all-in-one PDF tools

• Desktop version may require a one-time purchase

Pricing:

• Online version is free with pricing available upon request

6. PDF2Go

Key Features

• Simple and intuitive interface suitable for beginners

• Offers a variety of PDF tools, including compression, conversion, and editing

• Supports cloud storage integration for convenient file management

Pros

• Free to use with basic features

• No registration required for quick compression

• Provides instant download links after compression

Cons

• Limited customisation options for compression settings

• Ad-supported free version may interrupt the user experience

Pricing

• Free plan with basic features

• Premium plans start at $6.50 USD per month ($78 USD per year)

7. PDF Compressor

Key Features

• Focuses on PDF compression and format conversion

• Offers both online and desktop versions

• Provides batch processing capabilities for compressing multiple files at once (up to 20 files)

Pros

• Simple and straightforward interface for easy navigation

• Supports various compression levels for different requirements

• Desktop version allows offline use without internet connectivity

Cons

• Desktop version may require a one-time purchase

• Keeps user data for one hour before deleting it

• Limited additional features compared to comprehensive PDF tools

Pricing

• Online version offers a free version with pricing available upon request

Conclusion

Choosing the right PDF compressor depends on your specific needs, preferences, and budget. If you prioritise brand reputation and advanced features, Adobe PDF Compressor may be the ideal choice, albeit at a higher price point. For users seeking simplicity and convenience at an affordable price, SmallPDF and PDF2Go offer competitive options. IlovePDF provides a comprehensive suite of PDF tools with a generous free tier, while PDFGear and PDF Compressor cater to users who prioritise dedicated PDF compression capabilities. If you value affordable pricing, simplicity, efficiency, quality and document safety, there is no doubt that SaferPDF is the way to go for you. Try it out today and let us know your thoughts!