PDF Expert vs Smallpdf: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between PDF Expert and Smallpdf comes down to understanding what each tool does best. This comparison breaks down the key differences so you can make an informed decision based on your specific needs, not marketing claims.
By Toolradar Team · Last updated February 28, 2026 · Methodology
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
PDF Expert
The go-to PDF editor and reader for iPhone, iPad, and Mac, making PDF tasks easy and efficient.
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.7/10 vs 8.5/10)
- • You need file management features specifically
- • Comprehensive PDF editor and reader for Apple devices (Mac, iPhone, iPad).
- • Offers advanced features like OCR, AI-powered scan enhancement, and extensive annotation tools.
Smallpdf
The all-in-one platform to convert, compress, edit, and e-sign PDFs with ease.
Best for you if:
- • You need workflow automation features specifically
- • Offers over 30 tools for converting, compressing, editing, and e-signing PDFs.
- • Includes AI-powered features like chat, summarization, and translation for PDFs.
| At a Glance |  PDF Expert |  Smallpdf |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | File Management | Workflow Automation |
Rating | 87/100 | 85/100 |
| Feature | PDF Expert | Smallpdf |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 87 | 85 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | File ManagementE-Signature | Workflow Automation |
How PDF Expert and Smallpdf Compare
PDF Expert
The go-to PDF editor and reader for iPhone, iPad, and Mac, making PDF tasks easy and efficient.
Free tier available · 87/100 score
Smallpdf
The all-in-one platform to convert, compress, edit, and e-sign PDFs with ease.
Free tier available · 85/100 score
PDF Expert is a file management tool. Smallpdf is in workflow automation.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are freemium. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: PDF Expert
Want the highest-rated option?
PDF Expert: 87/100. Smallpdf: 85/100.
Go with: PDF Expert
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: PDF Expert
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Both are freemium. Pricing won't help you decide here.
What's your use case?
PDF Expert is a file management tool. Smallpdf is in workflow automation. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
PDF Expert scores higher: 87/100 vs 85/100.
Key Takeaways
PDF Expert
- Higher score: 87/100 vs 85
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Smallpdf
- Better fit for workflow automation
The Bottom Line
PDF Expert (87/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is PDF Expert or Smallpdf better?
PDF Expert scores 87/100 in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are PDF Expert and Smallpdf used for?
PDF Expert: The go-to PDF editor and reader for iPhone, iPad, and Mac, making PDF tasks easy and efficient.. Smallpdf: The all-in-one platform to convert, compress, edit, and e-sign PDFs with ease..
What does PDF Expert cost vs Smallpdf?
PDF Expert is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Smallpdf is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.