Smallpdf vs PDF24
Both Smallpdf and PDF24 are European-built, GDPR-compliant solutions in the document signing space. This comparison breaks down their features, pricing, compliance posture, and data residency so you can make an informed choice for your team.
Quick Overview
Smallpdf
EU- Headquarters
- Zurich, CH
- Pricing
- Free
- Open Source
- No
PDF24
EU- Headquarters
- Berlin, DE
- Pricing
- Free
- Open Source
- No
Key Differences
- Smallpdf offers a free tier, while pDF24 offers a free tier. The different pricing models mean you should evaluate which approach better fits your usage pattern.
- Data residency differs: Smallpdf hosts data in Switzerland, EU, while PDF24 hosts in Germany. If your organisation requires data to stay in a specific EU country, this distinction matters for compliance.
- Smallpdf holds ISO 27001 certification, providing third-party assurance of its security practices. PDF24 does not currently hold these certifications, which may matter if your organisation requires them for vendor approval.
- PDF24 was founded in 2006, giving it a 7-year head start over Smallpdf (founded 2013). More time in market often means a larger user community and more mature integrations, though newer entrants may offer more modern architectures.
- Each product has unique strengths: Smallpdf offers PDF editor and Password protection, while PDF24 provides PDF creator and Editor. Your choice depends on which capabilities matter most for your workflow.
Feature Comparison
| Feature | Smallpdf | PDF24 |
|---|---|---|
| Name | Smallpdf | PDF24 |
| Pricing | Free | Free |
| Free Tier | ||
| GDPR | ||
| ISO 27001 | ||
| Open Source | ||
| Headquarters | Zurich, CH | Berlin, DE |
| Data Centers | CH, EU | DE |
| PDF editor | ||
| Compress | ||
| Convert | ||
| Merge/split | ||
| E-sign | ||
| OCR | ||
| Password protection | ||
| Batch processing | ||
| Desktop app | ||
| Team management | ||
| PDF creator | ||
| Editor | ||
| Fax | ||
| Browser-based tools |
Pricing Comparison
Smallpdf
Freefreemium
PDF24
Freefree
Compliance Comparison
Smallpdf
GDPRISO 27001DPA
PDF24
GDPRDPA
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How to Choose
Your procurement requires ISO 27001 certification
Choose Smallpdf
You need enterprise-grade support and stability
Choose Smallpdf
You prefer a nimble provider with personalised support
Choose PDF24
Smallpdf vs PDF24 — FAQ
What is the main difference between Smallpdf and PDF24?
Both Smallpdf and PDF24 are European document signing solutions with full GDPR compliance. The key differences lie in their approach: Smallpdf uses freemium pricing while PDF24 uses free. Smallpdf is headquartered in Zurich, Switzerland, while PDF24 is based in Berlin, Germany. Your choice should depend on your specific requirements for features, pricing, and data residency.
Which is more affordable, Smallpdf or PDF24?
Both Smallpdf and PDF24 offer free tiers, so you can try either without cost. Pricing models differ (freemium vs. free), so compare based on your usage pattern rather than just the starting price.
Are both Smallpdf and PDF24 GDPR compliant?
Yes. Both Smallpdf and PDF24 are European companies that store data within the EU/EEA and offer Data Processing Agreements. Neither is subject to the US CLOUD Act or FISA surveillance. Additionally, Smallpdf holds ISO 27001 certification. For GDPR purposes, either option eliminates the legal risks associated with using US-based services.