Best Free Online PDF Tools in 2026
A curated roundup of the best free PDF tools in 2026 — merge, split, compress, convert, and OCR — and the privacy question to ask first.
What to look for
Free doesn't have to mean limited. The best free PDF tools offer the core operations — merge, split, compress, convert, and OCR — without account walls, watermarks, or arbitrary file-size caps. Watch out for tools that only work for a 'free trial' before hitting a paywall.
The privacy question first
Before you upload anything to a 'free' tool, ask where your file goes. Cloud tools store your documents on their servers. On-device tools process everything in your browser and never upload — the right choice for contracts, resumes, and anything confidential.
A solid free stack
For everyday work you need: a merger, a splitter, a compressor, an image-to-PDF converter, and OCR. ToolVerse covers all of these plus AI summary, translation, and an ATS resume checker — with on-device processing and no sign-up required.
Try it free — no uploads
Put this guide into practice with a free PDF tool. Files are processed in your browser and never uploaded.
Related guides
How to Merge PDF Files Free in 2026 (No Uploads)
Learn how to combine multiple PDF files into one document for free, without uploading them to a server. Step-by-step guide plus common pitfalls.
Read guideHow to Split a PDF Into Separate Pages or Ranges
Split a PDF into single pages or custom ranges like 1-3, 5, 8-10 — free and private. A practical guide to separating PDF pages.
Read guideHow to Compress a PDF Without Losing Quality
Reduce PDF file size for email and sharing while keeping text sharp. Explains how PDF compression works and how to choose the right settings.
Read guideLooking for a specific tool? Browse the full collection.
All free tools