10 Best Free PDF Converters in 2025 (Online & Offline Tools)

In 2025, PDF remains the standard for sharing documents across platforms, but working with these files often requires conversion. Whether you need to edit content, extract data, or optimize for different devices, a reliable PDF converter is essential. This guide reviews the top 10 free PDF converters available in 2025, comparing online and offline options so you can find the perfect tool for your needs.

Online PDF Converters: Speed and Convenience

Online tools offer immediate conversion without software installation, making them perfect for occasional use or when working on different computers.

1. PDFto.me

Our own free conversion tool combines ease of use with powerful features:

• Key features: Converts PDFs to JPG, PNG, and DOCX formats
• Strengths: No registration required, no watermarks, and preserves formatting with high accuracy
• Perfect for: Quick, high-quality conversions without any technical knowledge
• Privacy: Files are automatically deleted after conversion, enhancing security

2. SmallPDF

A versatile online suite with multiple PDF tools:

• Key features: Converts PDF to Word, Excel, PPT and vice versa
• Strengths: Clean interface and excellent format preservation
• Limitations: Free version limited to 2 tasks per day

3. ILovePDF

A comprehensive web-based solution:

• Key features: Offers conversion to/from 20+ formats
• Strengths: Batch processing capabilities and mobile apps available
• Limitations: Some advanced features require subscription

4. PDF2Go

Privacy-focused online converter:

• Key features: Wide range of conversion options with OCR functionality
• Strengths: No account needed and automatic file deletion
• Limitations: 100MB file size limit

Desktop PDF Converters: Power and Privacy

Offline tools provide enhanced privacy, larger file handling, and often better results for complex documents.

5. PDF-XChange Editor

A feature-rich desktop application:

• Key features: Full PDF editing plus conversion capabilities
• Strengths: OCR functionality included in free version
• Limitations: Some converted documents include a watermark

6. NAPS2 (Not Another PDF Scanner)

Open-source scanning and conversion tool:

• Key features: Scan to PDF and convert between formats
• Strengths: Completely free and open-source with no limitations
• Limitations: Interface is less polished than commercial alternatives

7. Libre Office

Full office suite with PDF capabilities:

• Key features: Open, edit and export to PDF from various formats
• Strengths: Completely free with regular updates
• Limitations: Not exclusively designed for PDF conversion

8. SumatraPDF

Lightweight PDF reader with conversion features:

• Key features: Fast rendering and basic conversion tools
• Strengths: Extremely small program size and memory footprint
• Limitations: Limited to basic conversion functionality

Mobile PDF Converters

9. Adobe Scan

Industry-standard mobile scanner:

• Key features: Capture documents with your phone and convert to PDF
• Strengths: Excellent automatic edge detection and image enhancement
• Limitations: Requires Adobe account

10. CamScanner

Versatile document scanner and converter:

• Key features: Scan to PDF and convert between formats
• Strengths: Good OCR capabilities and cloud synchronization
• Limitations: Free version includes watermarks

How to Choose the Right PDF Converter

When selecting a PDF converter, consider these factors:

• Conversion quality: Especially important for complex layouts, forms, and tables
• Supported formats: Make sure the tool handles your specific format needs
• Batch processing: Essential for converting multiple files efficiently
• Privacy policy: Check how the service handles your uploaded documents
• No watermarks: Many free tools add watermarks; know what to expect
• File size limits: Online tools often restrict maximum file sizes

Security Considerations When Using PDF Converters

When converting sensitive documents, prioritize:

• Tools with clear privacy policies that don't store your files
• Desktop applications for confidential business documents
• Services with encrypted file transfer when using online options
• Reputable products with positive user reviews regarding privacy

Conclusion: The Best Free PDF Converter in 2025

For most users, the best free PDF converter balances ease of use, conversion quality, and privacy protection. Online tools like PDFto.me, SmallPDF, and ILovePDF excel for occasional conversions, while desktop options like PDF-XChange and LibreOffice provide more powerful capabilities for regular users.

For most casual users, we recommend starting with PDFto.me for simple PDF conversions - it's free, requires no registration, and maintains high-quality output without watermarks. For power users needing frequent conversions or batch processing, desktop tools like PDF-XChange Editor provide the most comprehensive feature set without uploading your files to external servers.

Whatever your PDF conversion needs, there's a free tool available in 2025 that can handle the job effectively without requiring a paid subscription.