There are hundreds of free PDF tools, and most people only need a few things: make a file smaller, join or split documents, convert to or from Word, sign, and password protect. This guide groups the common jobs, says which free tool suits each, and is upfront about limits. It is written by PDF HUB 24, so the tools we describe are our own. We say where they stop.
How to choose a free PDF tool
Ask four questions before uploading anything.
- Does it do the exact job? A tool that "edits" PDFs may only add text on top, not change existing words.
- What are the limits? File size, number of files and pages processed are where free tools differ.
- What happens to my file? Look for HTTPS, automatic deletion and a clear privacy policy. Don't upload highly sensitive documents unless your organisation allows it.
- Will the result be usable? Always open the output and check it.
Everyday jobs and the tool for each
Make a PDF smaller. Compress PDF has Low, Medium and High levels. Medium is the sensible default. See how to compress a PDF for email.
Combine files. Merge PDF joins several PDFs in the order you choose. Our merge guide covers ordering and page sizes.
Take pages out. Split PDF extracts a page range, Extract Pages picks individual pages and Delete Pages removes the ones you don't want.
Convert to Word or Excel. PDF to Word and PDF to Excel work best on PDFs with real text. Scans need OCR PDF first.
Turn images into a PDF. JPG to PDF and PNG to PDF build a document from photos and screenshots.
Sign a document. Sign PDF adds a typed or drawn signature. That's a simple electronic signature, not a certificate-based one. See signing a PDF electronically.
Protect or unlock. Protect PDF adds an open password. Unlock PDF removes one you already know.
Mark up a document. Annotate PDF, Edit PDF and Add Watermark cover comments, added text and stamps.
Where free online tools stop
Being honest about limits saves you a wasted afternoon.
- Rewriting existing text in a PDF needs a full desktop editor, or a trip through Word.
- Certificate-based digital signatures and formal audit trails need a specialised signing service.
- Very large files or big batches may exceed free limits. Ours is 50 MB per file.
- Handwriting recognition is generally not reliable in any OCR.
- Sensitive redaction needs care. Black boxes alone don't remove the text underneath. Follow our safe redaction steps.
If your work regularly hits these limits, a desktop application may be the better investment. If you do a few jobs a month, a free online tool is usually enough.
A short checklist before you upload
- Work on a copy of the file.
- Remove pages you don't need first.
- Check the result before sending it on.
- Delete downloaded copies you no longer need.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are free PDF tools safe?
Check for an encrypted connection, automatic deletion and a clear privacy policy. For highly confidential documents, follow your organisation's rules.
Do I need to create an account?
Not for our tools.
Why do some tools add watermarks to the output?
Some services add them to push you to a paid plan. Check the result before you rely on it.
Which single tool should I learn first?
Compress and merge cover most everyday needs.