Side-by-side ยท reviewed July 25, 2026
PDFArrow vs Smallpdf
Choose PDFArrow for a free, browser-local starting point with a direct editor. Choose Smallpdf for a mature multi-device tool suite, AI features, and a broader commercial ecosystem.
Try PDFArrowQuick recommendation
Choose PDFArrow for: Private, account-optional browser PDF tasks.
Choose Smallpdf for: A polished cross-device PDF utility suite.
Feature-by-feature comparison
| Area | PDFArrow | Smallpdf |
|---|---|---|
| Start without an account | Start supported tools as a guest. An account is optional for saved workspace features. | Free use is available, with download and feature limits. |
| Document processing | Supported core workflows run in the browser, so the document does not need to be uploaded for those tasks. | Online tools upload files for processing; most are automatically removed after one hour. |
| Tool breadth | A broad set of editing, page, conversion, scan, protection, and review tools. | A mature suite of 30+ tools, including advanced compression, OCR, and AI features. |
| E-signatures | Add your own visual signature in the editor. PDFArrow is not yet a replacement for a mature enterprise signature-request platform. | Paid plans include the Sign.com signature product. |
| Apps & integrations | Responsive web app. No native desktop or mobile app is currently offered. | Web and mobile apps plus connected storage workflows. |
| Current cost model | Supported tools are currently free; paid team plans are not active. | Free tier with Pro, Team, and Business subscriptions for unlimited and advanced use. |
Why people choose PDFArrow
- You prefer supported core tasks to run locally in the browser.
- You want to enter the editor without signing up or hitting a paid feature wall.
- You mainly need focused document work rather than a multi-product subscription.
Plans and access
| Plan question | PDFArrow | Smallpdf |
|---|---|---|
| Free access | Supported tools are currently free, with no watermark or forced signup. | Free, Pro, Team, and Business offerings. Exact pricing and plan presentation can vary by market. |
| Account requirement | Start supported tools as a guest. An account is optional for saved workspace features. | A free tier exists, but document downloads and advanced features are limited by plan. |
| Paid and team options | Paid team and enterprise plans are not currently active. | Smallpdf offers established paid options. Check its official pricing page for current regional prices and billing terms. |
When Smallpdf fits
- You need a mature mobile app and an established cross-device workflow.
- Advanced compression, OCR, AI, or Sign.com are part of your regular work.
- You need team administration or a commercial support plan.
Frequently asked questions
Is PDFArrow better than Smallpdf?
It depends on the workflow. PDFArrow is the simpler choice for private, account-optional browser pdf tasks. Smallpdf is the stronger choice for a polished cross-device pdf utility suite.
Does PDFArrow support the same platforms as Smallpdf?
PDFArrow is a responsive web app and does not currently offer native desktop or mobile apps. Web and mobile apps, with Google Drive, Dropbox, and other workflow integrations.
How does PDFArrow pricing compare with Smallpdf?
PDFArrow's supported tools are currently free and its paid team plans are not active. Free, Pro, Team, and Business offerings. Exact pricing and plan presentation can vary by market. Verify the vendor's official pricing page for current prices, taxes, limits, and regional differences.
Can I switch from Smallpdf to PDFArrow?
Yes for ordinary PDF files: download or keep the document, then open it directly in PDFArrow. Account history, reusable templates, signature-request audit trails, and proprietary cloud-workspace data are not automatically imported.
Can I use PDFArrow without an account?
Yes. Supported PDFArrow tools can be started as a guest. An account is optional for saved workspace features.
How current is this comparison?
This page was reviewed on July 25, 2026 using the official vendor sources listed below. Plans and features can change, so verify time-sensitive details with the vendor.
Other comparisons
Official sources
Features, prices, and limits can change. Verify time-sensitive details with the vendor.