Smallpdf Alternative — DukPdf
Smallpdf is a popular cloud-based PDF tools service. Every action sends your document to Smallpdf servers for processing. DukPdf is a Smallpdf alternative designed around privacy: every tool runs inside your browser, so files stay on your device.
Feature comparison
| Feature | DukPdf | Smallpdf |
|---|---|---|
| Where your file is processed The single biggest distinction between local-first and cloud-first PDF tools. | In your browser (WebAssembly). Files never leave your device. | On Smallpdf servers. Files are uploaded, processed, then deleted after a retention window. |
| Account required | No account required. | Sign-in required after a small number of free tasks per day. |
| Watermark | No watermark. | No watermark on free tier, but paid tier unlocks volume. |
| Free task / daily limits | No daily limit. Process as many files as your browser can handle. | Free tier limits free actions per day; Smallpdf Pro removes limits. |
| File size cap | Limited only by your browser memory (typically hundreds of MB). | Free tier has a file size cap (varies by tool). |
| Works offline | Yes — once the tool has loaded, it runs without an internet connection. | No — every action requires an internet round-trip to the server. |
| Price | Free to use right now, no paid tiers. | Free tier + Smallpdf Pro monthly/annual subscription. |
Data last verified 2026-04-24 against the public Smallpdf documentation.
Why DukPdf is different
Smallpdf is a polished cloud PDF service. DukPdf is different at the architecture level: every tool runs inside your browser using WebAssembly, so your files never travel over the network. There is nothing for us to store, log, or leak — there is no upload at all. DukPdf also keeps working when you are offline, and there is no account or daily task cap to work around.
Try DukPdf
All 25 tools are available now — browse the tool catalog.