Free PDF Tools — Private by Design
Merge, split, and compress PDF files entirely in your browser. No uploads, no signup, no file size limits. Your documents never leave your device.
Everything You Need to Work with PDFs
Three essential PDF tools. Zero compromises on privacy or usability.
Merge PDF
Combine multiple PDF files into one document. Drag and drop to reorder files, select specific pages, and download instantly.
Try Merge PDF →Split PDF
Extract pages or split a PDF into multiple files. Use visual thumbnails to select pages, enter ranges, or burst into individual files.
Try Split PDF →Compress PDF
Optimize PDF file size by removing unused objects and compressing internal streams. Honest results — no fake reduction claims.
Try Compress PDF →NativeSmith vs iLovePDF
See how NativeSmith compares to other online PDF tools. The difference is privacy.
| Feature | iLovePDF / SmallPDF | NativeSmith |
|---|---|---|
| Files leave your browser | Yes — uploaded to server | Never — 100% client-side |
| Account required | Yes | No — start immediately |
| File size limit | Yes (200MB free) | None (browser memory) |
| Daily usage cap | Yes (varies by plan) | None |
| Processing speed | Depends on server load | Instant — local CPU |
| Watermarks on free | Yes | Never |
| Offline support | No | Yes after first load |
| Privacy guarantee | Server-dependent | Files never leave device |
How NativeSmith Works
NativeSmith is built on modern browser technologies that process PDFs locally. When you upload a PDF, it never actually goes anywhere — your browser reads the file and processes it using pdf-lib, a JavaScript PDF library. This means your documents stay on your computer at all times. There are no servers to upload to, no data centers to store your files, and no administrators who can access your documents. Every merge, split, and compression operation happens on your local CPU using the same PDF technology that server-based tools use, but without exposing your data to the internet. This approach also means NativeSmith works offline, has no file size limits beyond what your browser can handle, and processes files instantly without waiting for server queues.
For users who need more power, NativeSmith offers a Pro Pass that unlocks batch processing, larger file handling, and API access. The Pro Pass is a simple LocalStorage token — no backend, no Stripe integration yet. All core tools remain free and unlimited for individual use, with the same privacy guarantees. Whether you are merging two PDFs for work, splitting a large document for personal organization, or compressing files to save space, NativeSmith gives you professional-grade PDF tools without compromising your privacy.
PDF Guides & Tutorials
Learn how to get the most out of NativeSmith with our step-by-step guides.
How to Merge PDF Files
A complete guide to combining multiple PDF files into one document using NativeSmith. Includes tips for reordering pages and selecting specific content.
How to Split PDF Files
Learn different ways to split PDFs — extract specific pages, use page ranges, or burst every page into separate files.
How to Compress PDF Files
Understand PDF optimization and learn how to reduce file size while preserving quality. Honest advice on what actually works.
Upgrade to Pro Pass
Batch process unlimited files, handle larger documents, and get API access. $4.99/month or $39/year.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is NativeSmith?
NativeSmith is a free, client-side PDF tool suite that lets you merge, split, and compress PDF files entirely in your browser. Unlike online PDF tools that upload your files to a server, NativeSmith processes everything locally — your documents never leave your device.
Is NativeSmith really free?
Yes, NativeSmith is completely free for basic use. You can merge up to 2 files, split PDFs, and compress documents without paying anything. A Pro Pass is available for users who need batch processing, larger file handling, and API access.
How is NativeSmith different from iLovePDF or SmallPDF?
The key difference is privacy. iLovePDF and SmallPDF upload your files to their servers for processing, which means they have access to your documents. NativeSmith processes everything in your browser using WebAssembly — your files never leave your computer. We also have no file size limits, no daily usage caps, and no account requirement.
Can I use NativeSmith offline?
Yes, after the initial page load, all NativeSmith tools work completely offline. The processing engine (pdf-lib) runs entirely in your browser, so no internet connection is needed once the page is cached.
What file types does NativeSmith support?
NativeSmith supports standard PDF files (.pdf). All tools accept PDF files of any size, limited only by your browser memory. For the free tier, you can process up to 2 files at a time; Pro Pass removes this limit.
Does NativeSmith preserve my document formatting?
NativeSmith uses pdf-lib for processing, which preserves the original document structure, fonts, and formatting. Internal links and bookmarks are maintained where possible. The merge tool combines pages exactly as they appear in the source files.
Start Using NativeSmith Free
Your files never leave your browser. No signup required.