11 Best Rotate PDF Tools (2024) [FREE]

PDF Solutions, Software Reviews April 18, 2024

1. Introduction

In the realm of digital document management, the capability to manipulate files according to various requirements is paramount. One trivial yet crucial technique is the rotation of PDF (Portable Document Format) files. This can be essential in situations where the file is saved in the wrong orientation. It can greatly affect the reading, printing, and general handling of the documents. Therefore, having a reliable Rotate PDF tool is essential.

1.1 Importance of Rotate PDF tool

PDF format is widely used for sharing and presenting documents while preserving its formatting across all devices. However, sometimes a PDF file can be oriented incorrectly, which makes it difficult to read. This is when a Rotate PDF tool becomes a lifesaver. Without it, users would have to endure the discomfort of reading upside-down or sidewards content. It allows users to easily change the orientation of pages and save the changes permanently, which makes it easier to read and share the documents. Besides, it is also essential when creating booklets or catalogues where you want some pages to have a landscape orientation, while others ought to be portrait.

1.2 PDF Fix Tool

A good PDF fix tool is also very important to all PDF users. DataNumen PDF Repair is an ideal choice:

1.3 Objectives of this Comparison

As the Rotate PDF tools are plentiful on the market, it could make the selection process challenging. Therefore, this comparison aims to provide readers with insights on multiple Rotate PDF tools available. This includes their brief introduction, along with their pros and cons. This comparison hence aims to simplify the decision-making process and equip our readers with information that will assist them in effectively choosing the suitable Rotate PDF tool that best fits their specific needs.

2. Adobe Acrobat Rotate PDF Pages

Adobe Acrobat is a well-respected name when it comes to PDF management. Its PDF rotation tool is one of many features that this software provides. With its user-friendly design, one can easily rotate, move, delete, and renumber PDF pages to suit their preferences on multiple devices, including mobiles and tablets.

2.1 Pros

User-friendly Interface: Adobe Acrobat offers an intuitive and easy-to-navigate user interface. Users can easily find the functions they need, even if it’s their first time using the software.
Multi-platform support: It supports a wide range of devices including desktops (Mac & Windows), and mobile devices, allowing users to adjust their PDF files at their convenience from any platform.
Additional Features: Besides the rotation tool, Adobe Acrobat supports a wide range of other PDF editing tools, such as merging, splitting, and compressing PDF files, providing a full-feature set for PDF management.

2.2 Cons

Requires Subscription: To use all the features of Adobe Acrobat, users need to have a paid creative cloud subscription, which can be expensive compared to other tools.
Not Ideal for Single Use: Given its extensive features, it might not be the ideal choice for individuals looking for a simple one-off tool to rotate their PDFs.
Resource Heavy: Adobe Acrobat is a relatively large software which may slow down the performance of lesser power devices.

3. PDFsam Basic

PDFsam Basic is an open-source desktop application dedicated to performing various PDF-related tasks. Its primary function includes splitting, merging, extracting pages, rotating, and mixing of PDF files. It flaunts a highly streamlined and functional interface that makes file processing comfortable and expeditious.

3.1 Pros

Free to Use: As an open-source application, PDFsam Basic provides its complete set of features free of charge, making it an excellent option for those seeking a cost-effective solution.
No Internet Required: Being a desktop application, it allows users to conduct PDF operations without needing an active internet connection, which is advantageous under poor connectivity conditions.
Privacy and Security: Since files are processed on the local machine, it eliminates the risks associated with uploading sensitive documents to an online platform.

3.2 Cons

Limited User Interface: Compared to other applications, PDFsam’s interface is rather basic and might lack the sleekness of modern apps.
Feature Limitations: Despite being capable of handling most basic PDF tasks, the absence of advanced editing features present in some competitors might seem restrictive to some users.
No Direct Support: As an open-source tool, users might lack direct support from the developers and have to rely on community forums and tutorials for troubleshooting.

4. Smallpdf Rotate PDF

Smallpdf is an online-based PDF software offering a wide range of PDF tools, including an effective and secure Rotate PDF functionality. With a simple drag-and-drop interface, Smallpdf allows users to customize the orientation of their PDF files with significant ease.

4.1 Pros

Easy to Use: Smallpdf sports a straightforward and intuitive design, making rotating PDFs a hassle-free task even for novice users.
Secure Operation: It practices stringent encryption methods and automatically deletes uploaded files after an hour, ensuring high levels of security for user data.
Tool Diversity: Aside from rotation, Smallpdf offers diverse document management tools, such as compression, conversion, splitting, and merging of PDF files.

4.2 Cons

Internet Connection Required: Being an online tool, a stable internet connection is essential for unhindered operation.
Usage Restriction: Free users can only use Smallpdf’s features a few times per hour. Unlimited access requires a premium subscription.
Dependency on Browser: Being a web tool, its performance largely depends on the web browser and its version that users are utilizing.

5. PDF2Go Rotate PDF

PDF2Go is a web-based service that offers various PDF management tools, including the rotate function. It offers both, single page rotation and bulk page rotation within a document, providing flexibility based on user’s needs.

5.1 Pros

Simple and Efficient: Its interface is user-friendly and straightforward, making the rotation process quick and seamless.
Data Security: PDF2Go ensures data safety by deleting files from the server after completion of the rotation process. It maintains privacy in the handling of personal documents.
Tools Variety: Aside from rotation, PDF2Go offers an array of useful tools like compression, conversion, editing, and protection of PDFs.

5.2 Cons

Dependent on Internet: Being an online tool, it requires a dependable and strong internet connection to work smoothly.
Ads Presence: The website contains ads, which can be distracting to users and can affect the user experience.
Potential Slow Speed: The speed of file processing could be affected by multiple factors including server load and the user’s internet speed.

6. Master PDF Editor

Master PDF Editor is a powerful, feature-rich desktop software designed for creating, editing, and enhancing PDF documents. One of its functionalities includes the Rotate PDF tool, which enables users to restore the orientation of their PDF files for improved readablity.

6.1 Pros

Advanced Editing Features: Master PDF Editor is equipped with professional editing tools for text, images, and interactive elements such as bookmarks, buttons, and hyperlinks.
No Internet Requirement: This software operates offline, thus no need for an internet connection, facilitating seamless PDF handling devoid of connectivity concerns.
Multi-platform Compatibility: Master PDF Editor is compatible across various operating systems including Windows, Mac, and Linux.

6.2 Cons

Expensive: It’s not free, and purchasing the full version might be a substantial investment compared to other alternatives in the market.
Complex Interface: Given its extensive features, the user interface may appear complex and overwhelming to beginners or casual users.
Heavy on Resources: This software requires substantial computer resources for smooth functioning and might slow down less powerful systems.

7. PDF24 Tools Rotate PDF Pages

PDF24 Tools is a broad collection of online-based tools designed to aid users in handling PDF files effectively. Among these tools, their Rotate PDF Pages functionality enables users to adjust the orientation of their PDF files quickly and securely online.

7.1 Pros

User-friendly Interface: The platform offers an intuitive, easily navigable, and user-friendly interface, making anyone comfortable with using their tools.
Security Assurance: PDF24 guarantees user data security by deleting files from servers after a certain period post-processing.
Diverse Tool Set: Its extensive set of tools includes conversion, compression, merging, splitting, editing, and protecting PDF files.

7.2 Cons

Reliant on Internet: Since it’s web-based, it requires a stable internet connection, which may present a challenge in areas of low connectivity.
Ad-laden: The website is packed with ads that may disturb users and potentially impact the user experience negatively.
Processing Time: PDF rotation might take a bit of time if the file size is larger and the internet connection is slower.

8. iLovePDF Rotate PDF

iLovePDF is an accessible online platform offering a suite of PDF-related tools, including a rotate tool. It lets users adjust the orientation of their PDF files with a drag-and-drop mechanism. Users can rotate their PDFs in whichever way they need, enhancing readability and customization.

8.1 Pros

Straightforward User Interface: iLovePDF sports an easy-to-use, beautiful, and intuitive interface that helps users navigate through tasks quickly.
Additional Tools: Besides rotation, iLovePDF offers several other tools for editing, converting, merging, and splitting PDF files.
File Safety: iLovePDF prioritizes user data security and ensures that files are removed from the server after a specific period post-processing.

8.2 Cons

Internet Dependent: Being an online tool, iLovePDF requires a reliable internet connection for optimized operation.
Limited Free Access: Excessive use of its tools may require a premium subscription as free usage has restrictions.
Ad Presence: The presence of ads on the website might disrupt the user experience and attention.

9. PDF Converter Rotate PDF

PDF Converter’s Rotate PDF tool is an online-based service that simplifies the task of rotating PDF files, ensuring they are in the correct orientation for reading or printing. Additionally, PDF Converter provides a variety of other PDF editing and conversion tools in an intuitive user interface.

9.1 Pros

Simple to Use: The interface is designed for ease-of-use. Working through the softwares functionality is quick and intuitive, even for first-time users.
Assorted Tools: Beyond PDF rotation, the platform provides conversion, compression, merging and splitting of PDF files.
Data Security: PDF Converter places a priority on data safety. It automatically deletes all uploaded files from its servers after a certain period of time.

9.2 Cons

Internet Requirement: As an online service, a stable, robust internet connection is crucial for the platform’s optimal function.
Limited Free Usage: The number of times one can use the tool is restricted in the free version. A paid subscription is mandatory for unlimited use.
Website Ads: The presence of advertisements on their webpage can affect the user experience by causing distractions.

10. DocFly Rotate PDF

DocFly offers a range of PDF utilities, with one of them being the Rotate PDF tool. It is a secure, online platform that gives users the ability to adjust the orientation of their PDFs as per their needs, promoting enhanced readability and adaptability.

10.1 Pros

User-Oriented Design: The tool features an intuitive interface that makes it simple for users to navigate and perform the desired tasks.
Multi-Functionality: Besides rotating PDFs, DocFly provides many other PDF managing tools such as editing, converting, and merging, making it a comprehensive productivity tool.
High Security: User data privacy is prioritized by ensuring that uploaded files get automatically deleted from their servers after a certain duration.

10.2 Cons

Internet Necessary: As it’s an online-based tool, a strong and stable internet connection is required for its effective functionality.
Usage Limitations: In the free version, users are restricted in the number of tasks they can execute. A Pro subscription is required for unrestricted usage.
Ad Presence: The site contains advertisements which may provide distractions and disturb user experience.

11. WorkinTool PDF Rotator

WorkinTool PDF Rotator is an online utility that allows users to perpetually rotate their PDF documents. Whether it’s just one page or the entire document, WorkinTool makes rotating PDF files both efficient and hassle-free.

11.1 Pros

Ease of Use: The tool’s website has a straightforward and user-friendly interface, making it accessible to users of all skill levels.
Extensive Toolset: The platform provides a comprehensive set of tools for managing and editing PDFs including converting, compressing, merging, and splitting PDFs.
Data Protection: WorkinTool maintains user data security by ensuring all uploaded files are removed from their servers after a set duration.

11.2 Cons

Dependent on Internet Connection: As an online platform, usage is tied to having a stable internet connection, which could pose limitations in areas of limited connectivity.
Free Version Limitations: There are restrictions on the volume of usage for free version users, with expanded functionality coming with a premium version purchase.
Presence of Ads: Ads are present on the tool’s website which could potentially hinder the user experience.

12. AvePDF Rotate PDFs

AvePDF is an online-based suite of PDF editing tools. Its Rotate PDF functionality enables users to rectify the orientation of their PDF documents. It effortlessly operates in the browser, ensuring quick execution with a simple and clean interface.

12.1 Pros

Intuitive Design: AvePDF has a clean and straightforward UI that enables users to quickly accomplish tasks with ease, even for first-time users.
Broad Toolkit: AvePDF also offers additional PDF-related tools, such as converting, merging, splitting, and compressing PDFs.
Data Protection: AvePDF prioritizes data security, deleting uploaded files from its servers after processing to maintain user data privacy.

12.2 Cons

Internet Connection Required: Users must have a stable internet connection as AvePDF is an online tool, making it possibly inaccessible in areas of limited connectivity.
Usage Restrictions: The free version users may face limitations in terms of usage volume, with unlimited access available only with a premium subscription.
Ad Presence: The website includes advertisements, which could be a distraction and hinder optimal user experience.

13. Summary

After all these individual reviews, let’s bring everything together and make a succinct comparison of all the mentioned tools based on features, ease of use, pricing, and customer support.

13.1 Overall Comparison Table

Tool	Features	Ease of Use	Price	Customer Support
Adobe Acrobat Rotate PDF Pages	High	High	Paid with Free Trial	High
PDFsam Basic	Medium	Medium	Free with optional Pro version	Community Support
Smallpdf Rotate PDF	High	High	Free with Premium Plan	Medium
PDF2Go Rotate PDF	High	High	Free	Medium
Master PDF Editor	Very High	Medium	Paid	High
PDF24 Tools Rotate PDF Pages	High	High	Free	High
iLovePDF Rotate PDF	High	High	Free with Premium Plan	Medium
PDF Converter Rotate PDF	High	High	Free with Premium Plan	Native
DocFly Rotate PDF	High	High	Free with Premium Plan	Medium
WorkinTool PDF Rotator	High	High	Free	Medium
AvePDF Rotate PDFs	High	High	Free	Medium

13.2 Recommended Tool Based on Various Needs

The tool that may best suit you varies depending on multiple factors including your financial budget, frequency of use, the level of customer support you need, and the number of features you require. Additionally, how frequently you intend to use the tool and the kind of documents you will be working on can also influence your choice. This compiled information and comparison should guide you in selecting the best suitable Rotate PDF tool for your requirements.

14. Conclusion

14.1 Final Thoughts and Takeaways for Choosing a Rotate PDF Tool

In conclusion, selecting a suitable Rotate PDF tool largely depends on individual requirements, which could extend beyond just rotating PDF pages. The intended frequency of use, budget, additional featured tools, user experience and design, data security, and customer support are all factors to consider in making an informed decision.

While some tools may offer multiple features suitable for complex operations, others stand out for their simplicity and specificity. Some users might prefer an online platform for its convenience and lack of installation, while others might pick offline tools due to their consistent availability and usage independent of internet connectivity.

The summarized comparison in this guide provides valuable insights into various Rotate PDF tools in the market, to help users smartly pick a solution that fits their unique needs. Whether you are a professional, a student, or a casual PDF user, we hope this guide will help you make the most out of your PDF handling tasks.

Author Introduction:

Vera Chen is a data recovery expert in DataNumen, which provides a wide range of products, including a powerful tool to recover Word docx files.