Merging PDF files is often necessary, whether you’re combining reports, contracts, or project documents. However, one common issue when merging PDFs is losing formatting—such as text alignment, font size, or images—during the process.
To help ensure that you can merge PDFs online without compromising the formatting, we’ve compiled a list of the best tools available. We’ll start with Lumin, an easy-to-use PDF merger that keeps your documents intact, followed by a comparison with other great options.
Table of Contents
1. Lumin
Lumin is a versatile PDF merger that allows users to easily merge PDFs into one document while preserving the original formatting. Its simple interface and strong cloud integration make it the top choice for both individual users and teams who need a reliable PDF tool.
Key Highlights
- Real-time collaboration: Lumin allows multiple users to work on the same document simultaneously.
- Cloud integrations: Works seamlessly with Google Drive, Dropbox, and OneDrive for quick file access and sharing.
- Easy drag-and-drop functionality for uploading and merging PDFs without losing formatting.
Why You’ll Like It
Lumin stands out for its user-friendly interface and ability to preserve PDF formatting during merging. It’s perfect for teams needing to collaborate on documents and for individuals who need an efficient way to merge PDF files without formatting issues. Additionally, the platform offers a free plan with basic merging features, making it accessible for all users.
Potential Downsides
- Advanced features, such as batch processing and automated workflow tools, are only available with premium plans.
Despite its limitations, Lumin is a top choice for users who need a fast and secure PDF merger that keeps formatting intact while offering collaborative features.
2. Adobe Acrobat Online
Adobe Acrobat is widely regarded as the industry standard for PDF management, and its online version offers a robust solution for merging PDFs. Known for its high-quality tools and reliability, Adobe ensures that documents retain their formatting during the merging process.
Key Highlights
- Industry-standard tools for editing, merging, and signing PDFs.
- High-quality PDF conversion that ensures merged documents retain text, images, and formatting.
Why You’ll Like It
Adobe Acrobat Online’s advanced features make it a top choice for professional use. The platform guarantees that your PDFs are merged with no loss of formatting, preserving every detail, from font size to image placement. It also integrates seamlessly with Adobe Document Cloud, ensuring access from anywhere.
Potential Downsides
- Pricing: While Adobe Acrobat Online offers a free trial, the full version requires a subscription.
- The interface can be complex for users who just need basic PDF merging features.
Adobe Acrobat Online is perfect for professionals or businesses that require advanced features and top-tier PDF quality, but the cost and complexity might make it less ideal for casual users.
3. iLovePDF
iLovePDF is a free online PDF editor that makes merging PDFs simple and fast. It’s particularly useful for those who need a no-fuss, quick tool to manage their PDF needs.
Key Highlights
- Free PDF merging tool with no sign-up required for basic features.
- Batch processing allows you to merge multiple PDFs at once.
- Convert PDFs to other formats, including Word and PowerPoint, after merging.
Why You’ll Like It
iLovePDF’s straightforward interface makes it easy for users to merge PDF files in just a few clicks. It’s great for those who need to merge PDFs quickly without worrying about advanced features. The free plan covers most basic needs, making it an affordable option for casual users.
Potential Downsides
- Limited cloud integrations compared to other tools like Lumin.
- The premium version is needed for batch processing larger PDF sets.
iLovePDF is perfect for those who need to merge PDFs online without complex setups, but those requiring advanced features will need to opt for a premium plan.
4. Smallpdf
Smallpdf is one of the most popular online PDF editors, known for its ease of use and versatility. It’s an excellent choice for users who need to merge PDF documents quickly and efficiently, with minimal effort.
Key Highlights
- Merge PDFs with a drag-and-drop interface.
- Convert PDFs to various formats, including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
- Integrates with Google Drive and Dropbox for easy file sharing.
Why You’ll Like It
Smallpdf offers a fast, intuitive platform that’s ideal for users who need to merge PDFs quickly. The cloud integration allows easy access across devices, while the free plan offers basic tools for quick merging.
Potential Downsides
- The free version limits the number of tasks you can complete each day.
- Some advanced features require a premium subscription, including batch processing and additional editing tools.
Smallpdf is great for those looking for a quick and easy PDF merger, but its free plan may not be sufficient for more extensive tasks.
5. PDF24
PDF24 offers both online and offline solutions for merging PDF files. It’s a trusted option for those who need a free, no-frills PDF merging tool with the flexibility of offline functionality.
Key Highlights
- Free online PDF merging with no registration required.
- An offline version is available for desktop use, ensuring privacy and security.
- No limits on the number of PDFs you can merge.
Why You’ll Like It
PDF24 is entirely free, and its offline version makes it ideal for users who value privacy. It’s great for those who don’t want to rely on cloud storage or need a simple solution for merging PDF files online.
Potential Downsides
- The online version can be slow for larger PDFs.
- Lacks advanced collaboration features that tools like Lumin offer.
PDF24 is perfect for users who need unlimited free usage for merging PDFs, though its speed and lack of advanced collaboration features may be limitations for some.
6. PDFsam Basic
PDFsam Basic is an open-source, offline tool for merging PDF documents and performing other PDF manipulations. It’s especially useful for users who prefer free, offline solutions.
Key Highlights
- Completely free and open-source, with no hidden fees.
- Merge, split, and rotate PDFs offline.
- Offers a batch mode for merging multiple documents.
Why You’ll Like It
PDFsam Basic is free and open-source, making it a great choice for privacy-conscious users. The tool also offers batch processing for larger files, providing more flexibility compared to other free tools.
Potential Downsides
- Interface can be overwhelming for users unfamiliar with open-source software.
- Limited cloud features for collaboration and document sharing.
PDFsam Basic is excellent for those who prefer offline tools and require advanced merging features, but it may be intimidating for beginners.
7. PDF2Go
PDF2Go is an online platform offering a variety of PDF tools, including merging. It’s designed to help users manage their PDFs with additional features like compression and file conversion.
Key Highlights
- Merge PDFs online with a simple interface.
- Convert PDFs to Word, Excel, and other formats.
- Cloud storage integration for easy access and sharing.
Why You’ll Like It
PDF2Go provides an easy-to-use platform with the added benefit of file conversion and editing tools. It’s a great all-in-one solution for those who need to merge and manipulate PDFs.
Potential Downsides
- Limited features in the free version, with batch merging behind a paywall.
- The free version limits the number of tasks you can complete daily.
PDF2Go is great for those who need a comprehensive tool for merging PDFs with additional PDF management features.
Final Thoughts
When choosing a PDF merger, Lumin stands out for its ease of use, cloud integrations, and real-time collaboration tools. For professionals, Adobe Acrobat Online offers comprehensive features and high-quality merging, while tools like iLovePDF, Smallpdf, and PDF24 are great for casual users or small tasks.
The best tool for you depends on your specific needs—whether you prioritize privacy, speed, or advanced features—but Lumin is a solid choice for everyone due to its balance of usability, collaboration, and cloud integration.
