Smallpdf Desktop

Smallpdf for Desktop is a small but feature-rich office tool that can help you to easily reduce the size of your PDF files without compromising the quality of the content inside them (such as images) or convert them to one of the numerous file types, such as Office files, images, and more.

In addition to having advanced compression and conversion capabilities, it can also be used as a streamlined and fast PDF reader that offers an optimal reading experience.

Smallpdf for PC currently has only the most used features from the web app version of this app, but developers from Smallpdf GmbH have promised that all features of the webapp will eventually be added to the desktop version. To make the transition to new app versions easier, it has a built-in automatic upgrade tool.

Features and Highlights

• Take control over your PDF files.
• Easily compress them or convert them to other formats.
• Convert Office files to PDF with a single click.
• Merge multiple PDF files into one.
• Split PDFs into two or smaller ones.
• Extract specific pages from a single PDF.
• Delete or rotate pages inside a PDF.
• Available for Windows 7+ and other OS.
• Supports both 32-bit and 64-bit versions of Windows.
• Offered as a FREE TRIAL. Monthly or yearly subscription for unlimited use.

Installation and Use

Smallpft for Desktop comes in a fairly substantial installation package that weighs over 100MB. This size is needed not only because of the powerful conversion tools that are part of this app, but also because this app is a fully-featured PDF reader. Nevertheless, you can finish the installation procedure quickly by following the on-screen instructions, after which you will be presented with the app.

Originally presented in a fairly crude interface, the latest version of Smallpdf features a completely redesigned, stylish look that can instantly help you to easily read and manage the state of your loaded PDF or Office files.

The majority of the screen is taken by the reader canvas, browsing and printing tools are on top, and management tools are on the far right – Compress, Convert, Delete or Rotate Pages, Merge, Split, and Extract Pages. All of these tools open up their own pop-up window with easy-to-use controls. The most extensive options are offered by the Convert tool, where the following procedures are possible: Compress, PDF to Office, Office to PDF, PDF to Image, Merge, and Unlock.

It is important to note that after very early versions of this app, Smallpdf has switched from being a freeware to a premium app. Only a time-limited trial version can be used for free.

FAQs

What is Smallpdf Desktop used for compared to the web version?
Smallpdf Desktop provides offline access to core PDF tools like compressing, converting, merging, and editing files. Unlike the web version, it allows you to process documents locally without uploading them online.

Which PDF tools are included in Smallpdf Desktop?
It includes features such as PDF compression, conversion (PDF to Word, Excel, etc.), merging, splitting, and basic editing/annotation. The exact feature set depends on the plan, but it mirrors most of the core tools available on the website.

Is Smallpdf Desktop free or paid?
It offers limited free functionality, but most advanced features require a paid subscription. The desktop app is closely tied to Smallpdf’s premium plans.

Is Smallpdf Desktop still relevant in 2026?
Yes. In 2026, it remains useful for users who want simple, all-in-one PDF tools with an option to work offline, especially when handling sensitive documents that shouldn’t be uploaded to the cloud.

Alternatives

PDFelement - It offers a user-friendly interface with comprehensive PDF editing capabilities.

Soda PDF - Complete PDF solution for desktop and lightning-fast load time!

iTop PDF - Edit PDF with an easy and full-featured PDF editor on PC.

Pricing

Free (1 user)

• 30+ document management tools
• Limited document downloads
• Limited mobile app access
• Sign.com free account (limited to 2 documents/month)

Pro – $12 /month (1 user) or $108 /year

Everything from Free, plus:

• Unlimited access to all 30+ tools
• Unlimited document downloads
• Edit text, OCR, and more
• Strong compression
• Access to AI-powered tools
• Unlimited mobile app access
• Sign.com Premium (full access)
• Free trial available

Team – $10 /month per seat (2–19 users) $168 /year

Everything from Pro, plus:

• Discounted team pricing
• Priority customer support
• Centralized billing
• Member access management
• Sign.com Premium for each team member
• Free trial available

Business – Custom Pricing (20+ users)

Everything from Team, plus:

• Custom pricing
• Flexible payment options
• Dedicated customer support
• Sign.com Premium for each team member
  

PROS

• Efficient PDF compression.
• Wide format conversion options.
• Seamless Office file conversion.
• Simple PDF manipulation features.
• User-friendly interface design.

CONS

• Relatively large installation size.
• Transition from freeware to premium.
• Limited free trial duration.
• The desktop version lacks some web app features.
• Limited advanced options compared to competitors.

Note: 7-day trial version.