Smallpdf Alternative — Free & No Upload
Merge, split, and convert PDFs locally without uploading to Smallpdf servers.
Smallpdf is popular but requires uploading files to the cloud for most operations. If you handle contracts, medical records, or unreleased designs, browser-local conversion on Document Converter keeps files on your device while covering the same everyday tasks: merge PDF, Word to PDF, compress scans, and more.
What Smallpdf does well
Smallpdf offers a polished interface, desktop apps, and e-sign features. For public documents and quick jobs where privacy is not a concern, it works reliably.
The free tier has daily limits; Pro unlocks batch processing and larger files. Files pass through Smallpdf infrastructure — their privacy policy governs retention and subprocessors.
Why choose a no-upload alternative
Browser-local tools never receive your file bytes for conversion. JavaScript libraries (PDF.js, pdf-lib, Mammoth) run in your tab. Closing the browser clears memory.
This matters for HR onboarding packs, tax worksheets, legal drafts, and any file your employer forbids uploading to third parties.
Feature comparison at a glance
Document Converter: merge/split PDF, Word to PDF (batch), PDF to Word with OCR, image to PDF, compress — all free, no account.
Smallpdf: broader e-sign and desktop ecosystem, cloud sync, team features — requires upload for web conversion.
Choose local when privacy wins; choose Smallpdf when you need their specific paid ecosystem.
Workflow tips
Replace Smallpdf merge: use our Merge PDF tool, drag to reorder files, download merged.pdf.
Replace compress: PDF Compress for scans, Image Compress before Images to PDF.
For pixel-perfect Word export, desktop Word still beats any browser tool — local or cloud.
Bottom line
Document Converter is a free Smallpdf alternative for users who refuse to upload sensitive files. You trade cloud convenience for privacy — often the right trade for personal and compliance-sensitive work.