11 Best PDF Merger Tools (2024) [FREE]

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

1. Introduction

1.1 Importance of PDF Merger tool

PDF files have become an integral part of data and information management in many professional fields, and for personal use. Among the numerous operations available for managing these files, merging PDFs is one of the most commonly performed tasks. By merging PDFs, you can consolidate information from various sources into a single document, enabling easier access and better organization. The PDF merger tools facilitate a simple and efficient combination of PDF files, enhancing convenience and productivity.

1.2 PDF Fix Tool

An excellent PDF fix tool is also vital to PDF users. DataNumen PDF Repair is a good choice:

1.3 Objectives of this Comparison

The market is flooded with numerous PDF merger tools, each offering different features and functionalities. This comparison aims to objectively evaluate some of the top PDF merger tools available today. By analyzing their pros and cons, it seeks to aid users in selecting a PDF merger tool best suited to their needs. Detailed information about each tool will be provided to ensure a comprehensive understanding of what each one brings to the table.

2. Adobe Acrobat PDF Merger

Adobe Acrobat PDF Merger is a robust and effective tool offered by Adobe, one of the leading technology companies highly known for its suite of creative and multimedia software. It allows easy merging of documents and forms into one compact PDF, simplifying information management. It also has additional features such as editing, annotating, and converting PDF files.

2.1 Pros

User-friendly Interface: Adobe’s PDF merger provides an intuitive and easy-to-understand interface, making it suitable for users at all skill levels.
High Quality Merged PDF: With Adobe, the merged PDF retains the high quality of the original files with no loss of formatting or structure.
Additional Features: Adobe Acrobat PDF merger lets users edit, convert, and secure their PDFs on top of merging functionality.

2.2 Cons

Cost: Adobe Acrobat PDF merger, while powerful, comes with a cost and is not a freeware.
Heavy Software: Given its vast capabilities, Adobe Acrobat can be heavy on the system resources which might slow down low-specification devices.
Complexity for Beginners: While the interface is user-friendly, the multitude of features could be overwhelming for beginners.

3. Smallpdf PDF Merger

Smallpdf PDF Merger is a versatile online tool that specializes in merging multiple PDFs into a single document. Known for its simplicity, Smallpdf is designed with a focus on user-friendliness and functionality. Aside from its merger capability, it also supports a variety of other PDF management tools such as conversion, compression, and editing.

3.1 Pros

Simplicity: Smallpdf’s intuitive user-interface and straightforward approach makes it easy to merge PDF files.
Cloud-Based: As an online tool, Smallpdf can be accessed from any device or platform without any installation required.
Multiple PDF Tools: Apart from merging, it offers various other utilities such as converting, editing, and compressing PDFs.

3.2 Cons

Internet Requirement: Given its web-based nature, an internet connection is required to use Smallpdf, which might limit its usability in areas with poor internet connectivity.
Limits on Free Version: The free version of Smallpdf has limitations on the number of operations you can perform in an hour.
Privacy Concerns: Being an online tool, there always exists potential concerns about the privacy and security of uploaded documents.

4. iLovePDF PDF Merger

iLovePDF PDF Merger is a popular online tool that comes packed with a variety of features including the capacity to combine multiple PDFs into a single entity. This merger tool prides itself in its simplicity and efficiency, making it a favorite among professionals and personal users alike. In addition to merging, iLovePDF powers multiple other functions such as splitting, compressing, converting PDFs, among others.

4.1 Pros

Simplicity and Efficiency: It supports easy drag-and-drop actions, providing uncomplicated merge processes for users.
Cloud Integration: iLovePDF allows the loading of documents from Google Drive and Dropbox, increasing flexibility and access.
Rich Feature Set: It presents a full suite of PDF tools, supporting numerous other functions along with its PDF merging capability.

4.2 Cons

Ads for Free Version: The free version of iLovePDF is ad-supported, which could be distracting for some users.
Data Privacy: As data is transferred online, concerns about data privacy may arise for sensitive documents.
Dependence on Internet Connectivity: As a web-based platform, the merger tool requires steady internet connectivity, which may not always be available or reliable.

5. PDF24 Tools PDF Merger

PDF24 Tools PDF Merger is a free tool that is part of the PDF24 online toolbox. Known for its simplicity and excellent functionality, this tool excels at merging or combining multiple PDF files into a single document. Beyond its merging capabilities, PDF24 Tools also provides users with a variety of additional utilities, such as PDF editing, splitting, and conversion.

5.1 Pros

Free to Use: PDF24 Tools PDF Merger and its additional suite of tools are fully free, providing valuable functionality at no cost.
Easy-to-use Interface: It offers a simple, uncomplicated interface, allowing straightforward execution of tasks.
Additional Tools: Beyond merging, it gives users the ability to split, convert, edit, and perform other operations on their PDFs.

5.2 Cons

Internet Connection Required: Being a cloud-based tool, it depends on a steady internet connection, which can limit its use in areas with poor network coverage.
File Size Limit: There might be limitations on the size of PDF files that can be uploaded and merged together in one session.
Data Privacy Concerns: For sensitive data, users may express concerns regarding the security and confidentiality of their files, as they are transferred over the internet.

6. Soda PDF PDF Merger

Soda PDF Merger is a comprehensive tool used to unite multiple PDFs into a single combined document. It comes with an assortment of features including the ability to customize the order of the merged files. Soda PDF Merger is part of an extensive PDF management system that offers other tools including reading, editing, annotating, and converting functionalities.

6.1 Pros

Control over File Order: It allows users to specify the exact order of the documents to be merged, ensuring a well-structured final PDF.
Desktop App and Online Tool: Offering both a desktop application and an online tool, Soda PDF’s versatile platform enables users to merge PDFs as per their convenience.
Additional Features: With features like conversion, editing, and annotation, its versatility far exceeds a mere PDF merger.

6.2 Cons

Free Version Limitations: While a free version is provided, certain operations may be inhibited, prompting users to upgrade to the premium version.
Internet Connectivity: The online tool requires an internet connection, posing a limitation in connectivity-restricted areas.
Detailed Interface: The soda PDF Merger interface, though feature-rich, might seem complex to users looking for simple merging operations.

7. PDFMate Free PDF Merger

The PDFMate Free PDF Merger is a freeware application dedicated to merging multiple PDF files into one. It stands out with its easy-to-use interface and rapid processing speeds. In addition, this tool also allows for certain customization including adjusting page size and layout, as well as encrypting the combined file.

7.1 Pros

Free of Charge: The tool is completely free to use, offering users an economical solution for their PDF-merging needs.
Customization Options: It allows users to modify layout, page size and provides encryption for the resulting file thereby enhancing the privacy.
Swift Processing: The PDFMate Free PDF Merger performs the merging operation quickly, saving users time.

7.2 Cons

Limited Feature Set: Its simplicity means it lacks some of additional features that other PDF tools offer.
Application-based: As a downloadable application, it may not be as convenient and accessible as online tools.
Lack of Advanced Editing: The tool lacks advanced editing options when compared to some of its counterparts.

8. A-PDF Merger

A-PDF Merger is a desktop utility that allows for the combining of multiple PDF files, ensuring efficient file management. The software shines with functionality such as supporting several types of merging methods and the option to secure the newly created PDF with a password. In addition, you can also utilize A-PDF Merger to merge other file formats such as images and Word documents into a PDF file.

8.1 Pros

Versatile Merging: A-PDF Merger can append, combine, or overlay PDFs as per user requirements. This multifaceted approach to merging allows it to cater to a wide range of needs.
Security Measures: It provides the option to secure PDFs with a password to ensure data safety and confidentiality.
Merge Other File Types: Apart from PDFs, it also supports merging image and Word files into a single PDF document.

8.2 Cons

Software Cost: A-PDF Merger is a paid service, which might be a deterring factor for some users seeking free solutions.
No Online Version: Being a desktop-based tool, A-PDF Merger may not be as easily accessible or convenient as online solutions.
Limited Editing Tools: A-PDF merger focuses on merging functions, and doesn’t offer as many editing tools as some other competitors.

9. 7-PDF Split & Merge

7-PDF Split & Merge, as the name implies, is a software tool designed for two main purposes: splitting and merging PDF files. It’s a user-friendly, standalone application for both professionals and novice users, built to facilitate efficient management of PDFs. This tool stands out with its ability to handle PDFs without any specific system requirements.

9.1 Pros

Two-in-One Functionalities: Beyond merging, it also allows for splitting of PDFs, ensuring a versatile file management tool.
User-Friendly Interface: With its uncomplicated interface, users can easily navigate through the software and operate as required.
No System Restrictions: Handling PDF tasks without any specific system requirement makes the tool highly adaptable.

9.2 Cons

Limited features: While it provides adequate split and merge functions, it may lack other advanced PDF edition tools present in rival applications.
Desktop-Based: As a desktop application, accessibility from any networked device is limited compared to online merge tools.
Lack of Updates: The software version updates are not as regular as one might expect, which may lead to outdated functionalities over time.

10. FlexiPDF

FlexiPDF is a comprehensive PDF viewer and editor that extends its functionality to include merging and splitting PDFs. Its robust set of features, combined with the user-friendly interface, make it a notable choice for PDF management. FlexiPDF also offers advanced editing options which set it apart from many of its competitors.

10.1 Pros

Advanced Editing: FlexiPDF offers complex editing options including changing the text and layout, something not all merging software provides.
User-Friendly: Its intuitive user interface ensures a smooth user experience, reducing the learning curve for new users.
High-Quality Output: FlexiPDF ensures the quality of documents remain intact after the merge, maintaining original formatting and layout.

10.2 Cons

Requires Purchase: Unlike some other options, FlexiPDF is not a free tool and requires purchase for full access to features.
Limited Sharing Capabilities: It may lack integrated options for directly sharing the PDF files via email or cloud storage.
Heavy on System Resources: The robust set of features might impose higher system demands, slowing down operations on lower-end devices.

11. Foxit Merge PDF

Foxit Merge PDF is a reliable tool provided by Foxit Software, well-suited for merging multiple PDF files into a single coherent document. Foxit’s suite of PDF tools is known for its practicality, speed, and simplicity, and its Merge tool is no different. This utility allows users to optimize the organization of their PDF files, and it’s compatible with a wide range of platforms.

11.1 Pros

Speed: Foxit’s Merge tool processes files quickly, saving users significant time in their PDF management tasks.
Multiplatform Compatibility: Being compatible with multiple platforms, it enables users to use the service regardless of their working environment.
Easy to Use: With its straightforward interface, merging PDFs is simple and hassle-free.

11.2 Cons

Internet Dependency: As an online tool, a reliable internet connection is necessary to effectively use the service.
Limited Functionality: The scope of its functionality might be limited compared to comprehensive PDF management tools.
Free Version Limitations: There could be limitations on the size and quantity of files that can be processed at once in the free version.

12. Sejda PDF Merger

Sejda PDF Merger is another notable online tool that enables users to merge PDF files with ease. Known for its simplicity, speed, and consistency, Sejda stands as a reliable option for those looking to consolidate multiple PDF documents. It also comes equipped with a range of other useful PDF management features.

12.1 Pros

Simple Interface: Sejda’s design aims for simplicity, ensuring a straightforward process for merging PDFs.
Speedy Processing: Users can enjoy quick and efficient file merging with no unnecessary waiting times.
Additional PDF Tools: Sejda offers several other tools, expanding its functionality beyond merely merging PDF files.

12.2 Cons

Hourly Limitations: The free version of Sejda imposes hourly limitations on the number of tasks a user can perform.
Dependent on Internet Connectivity: Being an online platform, the tool requires steady internet connectivity, which can limit its usability in areas with inadequate or unstable internet.
Data Security: As data is transferred online, users may express reservations about data security, particularly when dealing with sensitive documents.

13. Summary

13.1 Overall Comparison Table

Tool	Features	Ease of Use	Price	Customer Support
Adobe Acrobat PDF Merger	Merge, Edit, Annotate, Convert	High	Paid	Good
Smallpdf PDF Merger	Merge, Convert, Edit, Compress	High	Freemium	Average
iLovePDF PDF Merger	Merge, Split, Compress, Convert	High	Freemium	Average
PDF24 Tools PDF Merger	Merge, Split, Convert, Edit	High	Free	Average
Soda PDF PDF Merger	Merge, Convert, Edit, Secure	High	Freemium	Good
PDFMate Free PDF Merger	Merge, Split, Encrypt	High	Free	Poor
A-PDF Merger	Merge, Split, Encrypt	Moderate	Paid	Good
7-PDF Split & Merge	Split, Merge	Moderate	Free	Average
FlexiPDF	Merge, Split, Edit, Convert	High	Paid	Good
Foxit Merge PDF	Merge, Split, View	Moderate	Freemium	Good
Sejda PDF Merger	Merge, Edit, Sign, Convert	High	Freemium	Average

13.2 Recommended Tool Based on Various Needs

Based on the detailed comparison, the functionality and needs of the end user play a crucial role in the tool selection:

For users seeking free solutions, PDF24 Tools PDF Merger and PDFMate Free PDF Merger provide reliable solutions.
If merging speed is a priority, Soda PDF PDF Merger and Sejda PDF Merger stand out for their processing speeds.
For advanced editing functions aside from merging, FlexiPDF and Adobe Acrobat PDF Merger offer the widest array of tools.

14. Conclusion

14.1 Final Thoughts and Takeaways for Choosing a PDF Merger Tool

The market is teeming with PDF merger tools, each with its unique set of features and right fit for different user needs. When choosing the best tool, it’s important to align your needs with the capabilities of the respective PDF merger tool. Aspects to consider include the tool’s features (such as functionality beyond mere merging), ease of use (including user-friendly interfaces), cost (free or paid versions), and customer support.

Note that online tools provide the convenience of access from any device connected to the internet. However, they require steady internet connectivity and may pose security concerns for sensitive data. On the other hand, desktop tools may provide more advanced functionalities but often come at a cost and could be resource-heavy on your system.

As discussed through the comparison of the twelve tools, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Different tools will cater to different user needs effectively, be it the diverse advanced functionalities of Adobe Acrobat and FlexiPDF or the cost-effective options of PDF24 and PDFMate.

Author Introduction:

Vera Chen is a data recovery expert in DataNumen, which provides a wide range of products, including an RAR file recovery tool.