Software Alternatives, Accelerators & Startups

Merge PDF (by Smallpdf) VS Sumatra PDF

Compare Merge PDF (by Smallpdf) VS Sumatra PDF and see what are their differences

Merge PDF (by Smallpdf) logo Merge PDF (by Smallpdf)

No file limit, no ad watermarks - a free and beautiful tool to combine your PDF files exactly the way you want it.

Sumatra PDF logo Sumatra PDF

Sumatra PDF is a slim PDF/DjVu/EPUB/XPS/CHM/CBR/CBZ/MOBI viewer for Windows.
  • Merge PDF (by Smallpdf) Landing page
    Landing page //
    2023-05-02
  • Sumatra PDF Landing page
    Landing page //
    2022-07-28

Merge PDF (by Smallpdf) features and specs

  • User-Friendly Interface
    The Merge PDF tool by Smallpdf offers an intuitive and clean interface that makes it easy for users of all experience levels to merge PDF files without complications.
  • Convenience
    Being an online service, Smallpdf allows users to merge PDF files directly from their browser, eliminating the need for downloads or installations.
  • Integration with Cloud Services
    Smallpdf integrates with cloud storage services such as Google Drive and Dropbox, allowing users to access and save their files with ease.
  • Cross-Platform Compatibility
    As a web-based tool, Smallpdf's Merge PDF function can be used on any operating system, including Windows, macOS, and Linux.
  • Security Features
    Smallpdf ensures security and privacy by removing files from their servers after one hour, mitigating the risk of unauthorized access.

Possible disadvantages of Merge PDF (by Smallpdf)

  • Subscription Cost
    While there is a free tier, access to premium features requires a subscription, which may not be suitable for users looking for a completely free solution.
  • File Size and Number Limitations
    The free version of Smallpdf has limitations on the size and number of files that can be uploaded and processed, which might be restrictive for users with large or numerous files.
  • Internet Dependency
    As an online tool, Smallpdf requires a stable internet connection to function, which can be a disadvantage in areas with unreliable connectivity.
  • Privacy Concerns
    Although files are deleted after an hour, some users may still have concerns about uploading sensitive documents to an online service.
  • Limited Features in Free Version
    The free version does not provide access to all the advanced features available to Pro users, which may limit functionality for those who do not wish to pay for a subscription.

Sumatra PDF features and specs

  • Lightweight
    Sumatra PDF is known for its small footprint, making it quick to download and install. It runs efficiently on older hardware.
  • Speed
    The application is fast to open and navigate, even with large PDF files, enhancing the user experience.
  • Simplicity
    Sumatra PDF offers a minimalistic interface that is easy to navigate for users who need a straightforward PDF reader without unnecessary features.
  • Portable Version
    Sumatra PDF offers a portable version that can be run without installation, ideal for use on multiple computers or USB drives.
  • Free and Open Source
    The software is free to use and open-source, allowing users to inspect the code and contribute to its development.
  • Support for Multiple Formats
    In addition to PDFs, Sumatra PDF supports ePub, Mobi, XPS, DjVu, CHM, and comic book formats (CBZ and CBR), making it versatile.

Possible disadvantages of Sumatra PDF

  • Limited Features
    Sumatra PDF lacks advanced features such as form filling, text editing, and annotations, which are available in other PDF readers.
  • No Document Editing
    The application does not support document editing, which can be a drawback for users needing to make changes to their PDFs.
  • Basic User Interface
    The simplistic design might not appeal to users who prefer a more modern or visually appealing interface.
  • Restricted Customization
    Sumatra PDF offers limited customization options, providing fewer settings and user preferences compared to other PDF readers.
  • No Cloud Integration
    The software lacks integrated support for cloud storage services, which can be inconvenient for users who manage documents online.
  • No Advanced Security Features
    Sumatra PDF does not include advanced security features such as digital signatures or encryption, which are essential for some professional users.

Analysis of Sumatra PDF

Overall verdict

  • Sumatra PDF is a great choice for anyone looking for a reliable and efficient PDF reader. Its performance, coupled with its simplicity, makes it a top recommendation for those who need a no-frills document viewer.

Why this product is good

  • Sumatra PDF is considered good because it is lightweight, fast, and easy to use. Its simplicity and minimalistic design make it an excellent choice for users who need a straightforward PDF reader without any unnecessary features. It has a quick load time and supports a variety of document formats including PDF, ePub, MOBI, CHM, XPS, DjVu, CBZ, and CBR. Additionally, it is open-source and doesn't require installation, making it ideal for users who prioritize portability.

Recommended for

    Sumatra PDF is especially recommended for users who need a fast and lightweight PDF reader with basic functionalities. It's ideal for those who want a simple tool for reading PDFs and other document formats without the complications of advanced features. It is also suitable for users who value open-source software.

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Sumatra PDF videos

Sumatra PDF my favorite PDF reader for Windows

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  • Review - Sumatra PDF A FREE Portable PDF reader for Windows 10 | Alternative To Adobe PDF Reader

Category Popularity

0-100% (relative to Merge PDF (by Smallpdf) and Sumatra PDF)
PDF Tools
12 12%
88% 88
Office & Productivity
100 100%
0% 0
PDF Editor
11 11%
89% 89
PDF Creator
0 0%
100% 100

User comments

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Reviews

These are some of the external sources and on-site user reviews we've used to compare Merge PDF (by Smallpdf) and Sumatra PDF

Merge PDF (by Smallpdf) Reviews

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Sumatra PDF Reviews

The Most Recommended 9 Free PDF Readers in 2023
Sumatra PDF Reader is a lightweight PDF reader with the basics of PDF viewing and processing. It works with various versions of the Windows operating system, such as the previous XP, Vista, 7, 8 and the latest Windows 10.
Top 10 Free eBOOK Readers for PC
A free eBook reader for Windows that can act as an all-in-one tool is Sumatra PDF Reader. Besides being free of cost, Sumatra is small and portable, which makes it a fast and lightweight tool for eBook viewing. The tool also features a simple and user-friendly interface with a near-to-zero learning curve. Sumatra can prove beneficial as the best EPUB reader for your PC.
Source: updf.com
10 of the Best Ebook Readers for Windows, macOS, and Mobile
Being a simple application, the user interface itself is pretty minimal. Whatโ€™s more, Sumatra does lack some advanced features. Bookmarks, highlights, and other typical features arenโ€™t in the box. Even so, Sumatra is a great choice as a capable and lightweight application that just works.
13 of the Best Free PDF Readers
Users who want the ability to view their PDF in different modes should consider Sumatra PDF. Sumatra PDF allows users to view their PDFs as a single page, in book format or as a presentation. There are also shortcuts included that make navigating the PDF easier and faster. Sumatra PDF might not have all the features of some other PDFs viewers, but it is still a reliable tool...
Source: www.indeed.com
Top 10 Adobe Reader Alternatives for Windows
We have mentioned 10 good Adobe reader alternatives that you can use to replace Adobe Acrobat Reader. Depending on your usage and requirement you can choose anyone. For example, if you just want an app to read the PDF documents, you can simply use your browser. If you want something light, you can download the Sumatra PDF. Just read the article and find the one that meets...
Source: beebom.com

Social recommendations and mentions

Based on our record, Merge PDF (by Smallpdf) should be more popular than Sumatra PDF. It has been mentiond 7 times since March 2021. We are tracking product recommendations and mentions on various public social media platforms and blogs. They can help you identify which product is more popular and what people think of it.

Merge PDF (by Smallpdf) mentions (7)

  • How do I add two separate PDF pages together as a single PDF on iPad?
    So I'm sure there are more official ways to do this but I usually just go online to somewhere like https://smallpdf.com/merge-pdf. Source: almost 3 years ago
  • Any tips for creating pdf files with some music you would like to learn to play?
    If you already have individual PDF files, you can combine them into one PDF with this tool: https://smallpdf.com/merge-pdf. Source: almost 3 years ago
  • Need help with Enrollment Immunization Records process
    5) Now that you have your doctor-completed immunization record form, either scan it with a scanner or take pictures and upload them into a PDF (you can use a website like SmallPDF to do this). Next, you will take that document/PDF and upload it over here. While uploading, you will click a dropdown menu. For your initial Immunization Record form, you will select option 1 ("Immunization Record") from the choices. If... Source: over 3 years ago
  • Different file formats ...
    On Canvas I restrict submission types to PDFs and I just include a link on each assignment description to SmallPDF. Source: over 3 years ago
  • Is this survey a good way to collect pain points?
    Examples of small tools that I'd want feedback on are PDF tools, conversion tools and spreadsheet tools. Source: over 3 years ago
View more

Sumatra PDF mentions (1)

  • anyone know any good epub/pdf readers for windows 11?
    You can use your browser for both, there are extensions(FireFox - PDF & EPUB/Chrome - PDF& EPUB) for that. In case, you want you use a separate software for them, I suggest SumatraPDF--it handles both PDFs and .EPUB files. Source: over 2 years ago

What are some alternatives?

When comparing Merge PDF (by Smallpdf) and Sumatra PDF, you can also consider the following products

PDF Joiner - This online tool allows you to join several PDF documents into a single file, free of charge.

PDF-XChange Editor - The smallest, fastest, most feature-rich PDF editor/viewer available

PDFManagerUltimate - Read, edit, and convert PDF files.

PDF24 PDF Creator - Create PDF and convert documents to PDF for free with the free PDF24 PDF Creator.

DocuPUB - DocuPUB is an online file converter, file merger, file compressor, and file resizing tool.

Adobe Acrobat DC - Make your job easier with Adobe Acrobat DC, the trusted PDF creator. Use Acrobat to convert, edit and sign PDF files at your desk or on the go.