Smallpdf is a widely-used cloud PDF platform offering PDF compression, conversion, editing, signing, and team collaboration features. It processes files on Swiss servers and enforces free-tier limits (2 tasks per day, 15-minute access windows). Its Pro and Team plans unlock uncapped processing, e-signatures, and integrations.
Smallpdf's free tier is heavily restricted to 2 tasks per day and uploads files to cloud servers. FileMint offers free, private, browser-based PDF tools entirely for free with no account required.
| Feature | FileMint | Smallpdf |
|---|---|---|
| Privacy / Data handling | Files processed locally in your browser. Nothing is ever uploaded. | Files uploaded to Smallpdf cloud servers (stored briefly for processing). |
| Free tier generosity | Completely free with no task limits, no time limits, no daily cap. | Free tier allows only 2 tasks per day with a 15-minute session window. |
| Pricing | Free — forever. No paid plans. No credit card. | Pro plan from ~$12/month for uncapped access. |
| Account requirement | No account required. Open any tool and use it immediately. | Account required for saving work, history, and most features. |
| Offline capability | Works offline after initial load. Perfect for travel or unstable connections. | Requires internet connection for all processing. |
| File size limit | no server-imposed file size limit — everything runs on your device. | Free tier limits file sizes; Pro plan allows larger files. |
| E-signature | Not currently offered. | Full e-signature support on Pro and Team plans. |
| Cloud storage integration | Files stay local — no cloud integration (by design). | Integrates with Google Drive, Dropbox, OneDrive (Pro). |
No uploads, no account required, completely free.