11 Best Compare PDF Tools (2024) [FREE]

Leave a Comment PDF Solutions, Software Reviews April 18, 2024

1. Introduction

In the digital era, where text files are a primary method of communication, comparing these files for differences can often be necessary but tricky. Especially when working with PDF files, which are designed to maintain consistency across various platforms, accurately spotting changes becomes even more of a challenge. This is where a Compare PDF tool comes into play.

1.1 Importance of Compare PDF tool

A Compare PDF tool is an application or program that allows users to identify differences between two or more PDF files. Whether you’re proofreading a document, looking for changes in an updated contract, or checking for discrepancies in complex reports, a Compare PDF tool is essential. It saves time by automatically highlighting differences, preventing you from tediously going through each line and page. This increases productivity and accuracy, ensuring even minute changes do not go unnoticed.

1.2 PDF Doc Fix Tool

An excellent PDF doc fix tool is also vital to all PDF users. DataNumen PDF Repair is widely used:

1.3 Objectives of this Comparison

The primary objective of this comparison is to provide a comprehensive overview of various Compare PDF tools available in the market. We aim to present an unbiased view, highlighting the features, advantages, and disadvantages of each tool. By the end of this comparison, our goal is to enable individuals and companies to make an in-depth, informed decision when choosing the Compare PDF tool that best meets their needs.

2. ADOBE ACROBAT

Adobe Acrobat provides a host of capabilities for comparing PDF files. Known for its robust features and reliability, this tool offers an intuitive interface to compare two documents side by side, highlighting the differences for easy identification.

Offering an industry-standard solution, Adobe Acrobat facilitates PDF creation, editing, signing, and of course, comparison. Its compare function offers detailed report of all detected changes including text, formatting and even images. It caters to a broad set of needs, making it suitable for professionals and individuals alike.

2.1 Pros

Advanced Features: Incorporates an extensive set of features beyond comparison, such as PDF editing, creation and signature tools.
Reliability: Being a product of Adobe, it has solid backing and proven reliability.
Intuitive Interface: Makes it easy to navigate and use even for first-time users.

2.2 Cons

Cost: It is one of the more expensive options in the market.
Memory Consumption: Its advanced features can translate to heavy memory use, potentially slowing down your device.

3. Draftable Desktop

Draftable Desktop is a dedicated comparison tool for PDFs and Word documents. Known for its simplicity and speed, this program is designed to make identifying differences in files a seamless process.

Draftable Desktop provides an offline solution for comparing documents, offering users the privacy of keeping all data on their own computer. The tool supports comparison of PDFs, Word documents, and a mix of both. It uses a smart change-detection algorithm to highlight differences and maintains the original formatting for easy comparison.

3.1 Pros

Privacy: Offers offline comparison for maximum privacy.
File Support: Ability to compare PDFs, Word documents, and the combination of both.
Speed: Known for its high speed comparisons, saving valuable time for users.

3.2 Cons

Simple Interface: The simplicity of the interface can be a downside for those used to more complex software.
Limited Features: The focus on comparison tools means it lacks the broader set of features seen in multi-purpose tools like Adobe Acrobat.

4. ABBYY FineReader PDF

ABBYY FineReader is a versatile PDF tool that goes beyond mere comparison and includes features like editing, converting, and handling scanned documents.

ABBYY FineReader PDF is a comprehensive tool designed for easy handling of PDF files. Alongside its PDF comparison capabilities, it offers a range of features, like Optical Character Recognition, that elevate its utility. Its comparison feature is efficient, providing a detailed review of differences within documents.

4.1 Pros

Comprehensive Tool: Offers a diverse range of functions like editing, converting, and comparing PDFs.
OCR (Optical Character Recognition): The OCR feature allows you to convert scanned documents and images into editable and searchable data.
Detailed Comparisons: Provides an exhaustive review of differences.

4.2 Cons

Learning Curve: With its extensive array of features, it may take some time for new users to fully familiarize themselves with the tool.
Price: The comprehensive capabilities come with a higher price tag when compared to simpler, more focused tools.

5. LEADTOOLS Zero-footprint Document Compare

The LEADTOOLS Zero-footprint Document Compare offers a unique solution to compare documents without requiring any software installation, making it highly accessible and user-friendly.

LEADTOOLS is known for its comprehensive toolkit in imaging, which extends to their Document Compare program. The program exists entirely online, which means it doesn’t require any software downloads. It compares different versions of text documents and PDF files, showing the changes in a reader-friendly format.

5.1 Pros

No Installation Needed: As an entirely online tool, there’s no need to install any software.
Accessibility: Can be accessed and used from any device which has an internet connection.
Simple Use: Easy to navigate and user-friendly design.

5.2 Cons

Internet Dependent: Without an internet connection, you cannot use this tool.
Security: Being an online tool, it may raise concerns about document privacy.

6. VeryUtils PDF Comparer

VeryUtils PDF Comparer is a cost-efficient tool designed to draw out differences in PDF files in a swift and effective manner.

VeryUtils PDF Comparer provides users with a straightforward way to compare two PDFs. This tool allows you to compare two versions of a document to analyze every change. Differences are highlighted and outlined, making it easier to location alterations.

6.1 Pros

Cost efficient: More affordable than many other PDF comparison tools on the market.
Ease of Use: Simple and intuitive interface, users can quickly learn how to navigate and use the software.
Effective Comparison: Efficiently highlights and outlines all differences between two PDFs.

6.2 Cons

Basic Features: Lacks the more advanced features seen in comprehensive PDF handling tools.
Limited Tech Support: Being a less known software, it may not offer as strong of customer and tech support as large-scale brands.

7. PDFforge Compare PDFs

PDFforge Compare PDFs is a web-based tool aimed at making the process of comparing PDF documents as simple and quick as possible.

PDFforge Compare PDFs offers a straightforward interface for comparing two PDF files online. Differences are well-highlighted, ensuring they can be easily identified by users. The tool offers a fast and free way to compare PDF documents.

7.1 Pros

Web-based: As an online tool, it does not require any software installation.
Fast and Free: Offers a quick comparison of files at no cost.
User-friendly: The tool is easy to use, even for those not familiar with PDF comparison tools.

7.2 Cons

Internet Dependent: The tool can only be used when an internet connection is available.
Data Privacy: Some users might have concerns about uploading sensitive documents online for comparison.
Limited Features: The tool is primarily for comparison and lacks additional features like editing and annotation.

8. PDF24 Tools Compare PDF Files

PDF24 Tools Compare PDF Files is an online service that allows users to quickly compare two PDFs for differences, with a focus on simplicity and efficiency.

PDF24 is an online tool for comparing PDF files, capable of visualizing the differences in text and images between two files. It’s a part of the larger PDF24 suite, which includes tools for creating, converting, editing, and splitting PDF files. Notably, all features are free to use.

8.1 Pros

No Software Required: All tools are online, so there’s no need to download or install anything.
Easy to Use: Simple and intuitive design.
Comprehensive Toolset: Apart from comparison, the suite contains a number of useful tools for handling PDFs.

8.2 Cons

Internet Dependent: You can’t use the tool offline, you must have an internet connection.
Data Security: As with any online tool, there may be concerns about data privacy.

9. Xodo PDF Compare

Xodo PDF Compare is a robust tool that facilitates easy comparison of PDF files, rendering precision and versatility in identifying differences.

Xodo PDF Compare provides a platform for accurate comparison of PDF files. It caters to a multitude of operations, such as highlighting, underlining, striking out texts, adding comments, and more. With multi-platform compatibility, this tool ensures that users can compare documents regardless of the device they’re using.

9.1 Pros

Multi-device Compatibility: Can be used on a wide range of devices, including tablets, desktop computers, and phones.
Annotation Features: Offers tools for highlighting differences and making notes.
Streamlined Navigation: Easy-to-use interface simplifies navigation for users.

9.2 Cons

Internet Requirement: Most features require internet access to work effectively.
Complex Interface: Users have reported that the interface can be complicated and overwhelming for first-time users.

10. Diffchecker Desktop

Diffchecker Desktop specializes in detecting differences between text files and PDFs with speed and precision.

Diffchecker Desktop is an application that empowers users to precisely identify differences between two versions of the same document. It uses a sophisticated algorithm to detect changes, hence, simplifying the comparison process. Its core purpose is to ensure that textual and visual changes don’t go unnoticed, without the need for manual verification.

10.1 Pros

Speed: Rapid detection of differences, which enhances the work pace.
Accuracy: Precise detection of changes, even in large documents.
Desktop Presence: Becomes a part of the user’s regular desktop apps, providing ease of access.

10.2 Cons

Narrow Functionality: This tool is limited to detecting differences and does not offer other functionalities like editing or annotating.
Paid Software: Even though it offers a free trial, post-expiration, it requires purchase which might not be affordable for all users.

11. PDFelement

PDFelement is a comprehensive PDF tool that offers a wealth of features including comparison ability, PDF editing, converting, and form creation.

PDFelement is a versatile tool that enables users to compare PDF files, locate differences and marks them for easy identification. However, its capabilities go beyond comparison, offering features like PDF editing, creation, form preparation, and more. Its feature-packed offering is coupled with a modern interface, making it a popular choice among users.

11.1 Pros

Feature-packed Tool: Offers an extensive range of features beyond comparison, such as editing, creating PDFs, preparing forms and many more.
Modern Interface: Provides a clean, user-friendly interface.
Multi-Language Support: Can recognize and compare texts from several languages.

11.2 Cons

Learning Curve: With a wide array of available functions, it might take some time for new users to get familiar with all its features.
Cost: The extensive list of its features comes with a higher cost compared to other simpler comparison tools.

12. PDF Compare

Developed by Bureausoft, PDF Compare provides a straightforward and efficient means of comparing two PDF files for differences.

PDF Compare is a software that allows users to swiftly compare two PDFs on different levels; pixel by pixel or textually. In both cases, the differences are highlighted for easy identification. It’s designed to cater to various user expectations, from business executives to academics.

12.1 Pros

Multiple Comparison Modes: Options to compare pixel by pixel or textually to match user’s specific needs.
Spotlight Differences: Blends clarity with precision by highlighting differences.
Easy to Use: Simple interface that enables users to understand and utilize the tool effortlessly.

12.2 Cons

Basic Tool: Besides comparison, it doesn’t offer other PDF processing functionalities like editing or form creation.
Limited Support: The tool does not offer 24/7 support, which might be problematic for non-technical users.

13. Summary

In this section, we will summarise the features, ease of use, pricing, and customer support of all the compare PDF tools discussed in the previous sections. We will also provide a recommendation based on various needs.

13.1 Overall Comparison Table

Tool	Features	Ease of Use	Price	Customer Support
ADOBE ACROBAT	Advanced features including PDF editing and creation	Intuitive Interface	High	Excellent
Draftable Desktop	Focuses on comparison, supports PDF and Word documents	Simple interface	Medium	Good
ABBYY FineReader PDF	Editing, converting, and comparing PDFs, with OCR	Medium	High	Excellent
LEADTOOLS Zero-footprint Document Compare	Online, comparison only	Very easy	Medium to high	Good
VeryUtils PDF Comparer	Basic, comparison only	Easy	Low	Average
PDFforge Compare PDFs	Basic, comparison only	Very easy	Free	Limited
PDF24 Tools Compare PDF Files	Online, comparison and other PDF tools	Easy	Free	Average
Xodo PDF Compare	Annotations and highlights	Easy	Free	Good
Diffchecker Desktop	Basic, comparison only	Easy	Low to medium	Average
PDFelement	PDF editing, creating, comparing, form preparation	Medium	High	Excellent
PDF Compare	Textual and pixel by pixel comparison	Easy	Low to medium	Average

13.2 Recommended Tool Based on Various Needs

If you need a comprehensive tool with a wide range of features, Adobe Acrobat and PDFelement are good options. If you are seeking a cheaper or free tool that does a good job at comparing documents, you might consider VeryUtils PDF Comparer or PDFforge Compare PDFs. For maximum privacy, an offline tool like Draftable Desktop would be suitable. For users who prefer a web-based tool that requires no installation, LEADTOOLS Zero-footprint, PDF24 Tools, and Xodo PDF Compare are recommendable.

14. Conclusion

In conclusion, the right PDF comparison tool can make a huge difference in productivity, accuracy, and ease of work. The market offers an array of tools, each with its unique pros and cons. Your choice should depend on your specific needs and requirements.

14.1 Final Thoughts and Takeaways for Choosing a Compare PDF Tool

When choosing a Compare PDF tool, consider the complexity of your documents, your budget, and your desire for additional features beyond comparison. If you frequently work with complex documents, look for a tool with advanced comparison capabilities. If your work involves simple text documents, a basic tool would suffice.

It is also vital to consider offline vs. online tools. Offline tools offer privacy benefits, while online tools offer convenience and accessibility. Lastly, consider the tool’s user interface. The best choice is a tool that offers a clean, intuitive interface that makes it easy to identify differences between documents.

In a nutshell, there’s a tool out there for everyone – you just need to find the best one that fits your requirements and budget. By comprehending these aspects, you will be well-equipped to make an informed decision when choosing your Compare PDF tool.

Author Introduction:

Vera Chen is a data recovery expert in DataNumen, which provides a wide range of products, including a great MSSQL MDF recovery tool.