DocHub vs. Smallpdf vs. PDF Element; how DocHub benefits your business?

Choose the best online editor alternative from DocHub vs. Smallpdf vs. PDF Element. Create from scratch, edit, and manage your documents with DocHub today.
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A quick comparison of DocHub vs. Smallpdf vs. PDF Element key features

DocHub Smallpdf PDF Element
No Downloads
CRMs, Google Docs, Office 365
Search Form Online
New Form and Document Creator
Host Fillable Forms
Edit PDF
Fill Online
Sign Online
PDF converter
Annotate PDF
Search text in PDF
Collaborate and Versions
Encryption and Security
Two-Factor Authentication
Unlimited Cloud Storage
Fax Online
Track Sending Documents
API
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DocHub vs. Smallpdf vs. PDF Element, which is better?

Although Smallpdf and PDF Element offer vast features and integrations, DocHub provides full control of document management: editing, signature collection, and safe storage of documents with an opportunity to create reusable Templates.

Move from Smallpdf and PDF Element to DocHub in a few steps

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01. Register with DocHub using your email address or Google account. It's fast and easy. No credit card required.
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02. Upload the document you need or create it from scratch. Then, customize it by adding images, drawings, and different types of fillable fields.
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03. Customize your PDF in minutes. Type, highlight, underline, whiteout text, add comments, and sign your document.
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04. Share your PDF with others to collaborate in real-time. Export your document, download or print it out.

Switch to DocHub from Smallpdf and PDF Element to enjoy premium PDF customization

Online PDF creator and editor
Get your perfect document in minutes without hassle. Start with a blank document or modify an existing one. Type text, add shapes, drawings, images, and highlight or whiteout information. Whatever you do with a PDF, the result is always high quality, without rasterized text or removed fields.
Diverse PDF management tools
Manage your PDF to perfection. Add, delete, and rearrange document pages or merge them to create a new document. DocHub supports a variety of file types including PDF, DOC, PPT, XLS, TXT, DOCX, and PPTX, which you can easily convert to a PDF — all without leaving your account and switching between different apps.
Powerful PDF tools on your mobile device
Keep your work flowing from any location. Get DocHub capabilities on your mobile device so you can edit, annotate, manage, sign, and share PDFs just as easily as you would on desktop. No need to install the app.
Google integrations
Boost your productivity and deliver an amazing customer experience by managing your PDFs from your favorite Google apps. Import, edit, and sign your documents directly from your Gmail, Google Drive, and Dropbox. When finished, export documents to Google Drive or import your Google Address Book and share the document with your contacts.
Interactive PDF forms and templates
Get an intuitive and interactive experience when creating PDF forms and reusable document templates. With the easy-to-use field manager, you can modify existing fields or create new ones for checkboxes, signatures, initials, and more. Publish forms on your website, social media, or share them via URL to collect data.
Real-time collaboration
Collaborate effectively and securely on documents in real-time. Set document permissions to let others view, comment on, edit, and sign your documents. Stay in the loop with instant email notifications or track the status of your documents with court-admissible audit trails.
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Edit and sign PDF for free

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Industry-leading security and compliance

DocHub complies with industry-leading standards, regulations, and certifications to ensure the most effective and secure workflows.

GDPR compliance
Regulates the collection, use, and holding of personal data for EU residents.
PCI DSS certification
Ensures the security of credit and debit card transactions made by a customer.
CPRA compliance
Enhances the privacy rights of California residents while protecting their personal data.
SOC 2 certification
Ensures the security of your data and the privacy of your clients.
HIPAA compliance
Protects privacy, security, and integrity of sensitive healthcare information.

Check out what our customers are saying about their DocHub experience

Great solution for PDF docs with very little pre-knowledge required.
"Simplicity, familiarity with the menu and user-friendly. It's easy to navigate, make changes and edit whatever you may need. Because it's used alongside Google, the document is always saved, so you don't have to worry about it."
Pam Driscoll F
Teacher
A Valuable Document Signer for Small Businesses.
"I love that DocHub is incredibly affordable and customizable. It truly does everything I need it to do, without a large price tag like some of its more well known competitors. I am able to send secure documents directly to me clients emails and via in real time when they are viewing and making alterations to a document."
Jiovany A
Small-Business
I can create refillable copies for the templates that I select and then I can publish those.
"I like to work and organize my work in the appropriate way to meet and even exceed the demands that are made daily in the office, so I enjoy working with PDF files, I think they are more professional and versatile, they allow..."
Victoria G
Small-Business

Got questions?

Below are some common questions from our customers that may provide you with the answer you're looking for. If you can't find an answer to your question, please don't hesitate to reach out to us.
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When it comes to working with PDFs, you have a few great options at your disposal: DocHub, Smallpdf, and PDF Element. These tools offer a range of features and benefits that can make your life easier when dealing with PDF documents. First and foremost, let's take a look at DocHub. This versatile tool provides a user-friendly and intuitive platform for editing, signing, and sharing PDFs. It offers an array of annotation tools, such as highlighting, adding comments, and inserting text. With DocHub, you can easily collaborate with others, making it an excellent choice for team projects or professional workflows. Plus, it seamlessly integrates with popular cloud storage platforms like Google Drive, giving you effortless access to your PDF files. Next, we have Smallpdf, another fantastic option for managing PDF documents. Smallpdf excels in its simplicity, offering a straightforward and streamlined experience. It allows you to convert, compress, merge, and split PDFs with ease. Need to convert a PDF to another file format? Smallpdf has got you covered. Additionally, it boasts a user-friendly interface that makes it suitable for both tech-savvy users and those who may be less familiar with digital tools. Whether you need to reduce the file size or combine multiple PDFs into one, Smallpdf has the features to help you accomplish your tasks efficiently. Lastly, there's PDF Element, a robust PDF editing tool that offers advanced functionalities. With PDF Element, you can edit text, images, and even convert scanned documents into editable PDFs using optical character recognition (OCR). It also provides powerful form-filling capabilities, making it a valuable tool for paperwork and document management. PDF Element's comprehensive set of tools allows you to create, edit, and secure your PDFs with confidence, ensuring that your documents are professional and presentable. In conclusion, when comparing DocHub, Smallpdf, and PDF Element, you'll find that each has its unique strengths. DocHub shines in collaboration, Smallpdf prioritizes simplicity, and PDF Element offers advanced editing capabilities. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your specific needs and preferences. Take the time to explore these options and discover which one fits your PDF workflow like a glove.
While Smallpdf and PDF Element are good solutions to work with PDFs online, DocHub offers greater capabilities to help individuals and businesses digitize their documents and make them run smoothly across different devices and your favorite apps.
Smallpdf and PDF Element are good options for editing, signing, and sharing PDFs. However, DocHub offers a more comprehensive featureset that includes organizations, reusable templates, advanced eSignatures, seamless Google integrations, and more that are perfect for small businesses, helping them simplify and streamline document editing, sharing, signing, and form completition.
DocHub is a Google-integrated PDF editor and eSignature solution that helps you get your PDFs done online, using any device. DocHub comes with an online PDF editor, advanced eSignatures, PDF forms, reusable templates, and straightforward Google integrations so you can maximize your productivity when working within your favorite Google apps.
Smallpdf is an incredible online tool that allows you to effortlessly compress, convert, merge, and edit PDF documents. It provides a simple and user-friendly interface, making it a breeze for anyone to navigate and utilize its powerful features. So how does Smallpdf work? Well, it's quite straightforward! Once you visit the Smallpdf website, you'll find a variety of handy tools right at your fingertips. Whether you need to reduce the file size of a large PDF, convert it to a different format, or merge multiple files into one, Smallpdf has got you covered. To get started, simply select the desired tool from the homepage. Let's say you want to compress a PDF. Upload your file by dragging and dropping it into the designated area or by selecting it from your device. Smallpdf will then work its magic in an instant, efficiently reducing the file size without compromising the quality of your document. If you're looking to convert a PDF to another format, such as Word, Excel, PowerPoint, or even JPG, Smallpdf can help you with that too! Just choose the conversion tool, upload your PDF, select the desired format, and let Smallpdf handle the rest. It will swiftly convert your file, ensuring that all elements and formatting are preserved perfectly. Additionally, Smallpdf supports merging multiple PDFs into a single document. Whether you need to combine different reports, invoices, or any other PDFs, Smallpdf allows you to easily merge them together into a cohesive file. Just upload the files you wish to merge, rearrange their order if necessary, and let Smallpdf take care of the rest. Your merged PDF will be ready for download in no time! Beyond these everyday tasks, Smallpdf also offers other practical tools, such as the ability to split a PDF, add e-signatures, and even protect your documents with passwords. With Smallpdf, you can trust that your PDF needs will be met efficiently, reliably, and without any hassle. In conclusion, Smallpdf is an impressive and intuitive online platform that simplifies the management and manipulation of PDF documents. Its range of easy-to-use tools empowers users to compress, convert, merge, and edit their PDFs effortlessly. So why wait? Give Smallpdf a try and experience the convenience and efficiency it has to offer!
PDF Element is a powerful software that allows you to easily manage and edit your PDF documents. It is designed to provide a user-friendly experience, making it accessible to both beginners and advanced users. So, how does it work? Well, imagine you have a PDF file that needs some changes. With PDF Element, you can effortlessly modify the text, images, and even the layout of your document. Whether you want to add or delete content, rearrange pages, or annotate your PDF, this software has got you covered. Once you open a PDF file in PDF Element, you'll find a wide range of tools at your disposal. From the intuitive toolbar, you can select specific elements, such as text or images, and make any necessary adjustments. Need to highlight or underline text? No problem! Simply choose the desired annotation tool and customize it to suit your needs. PDF Element also offers advanced features for more specialized tasks. For example, you can easily convert a PDF file into a different format, such as Word, Excel, or PowerPoint. This comes in handy when you need to edit the content using other software. Collaboration is also made seamless with PDF Element. You can insert comments, sticky notes, or even create fillable forms that allow others to input information directly into the document. This saves time and avoids the hassle of printing, scanning, or faxing paper forms. Additionally, PDF Element ensures the security of your documents. It allows you to add passwords and permissions to restrict access or prevent unauthorized modifications. You can also redact sensitive information to keep it confidential. Beyond editing and security, PDF Element offers a plethora of other useful features. You can merge multiple PDF files into one, extract specific pages, or split a large file into smaller ones. The software even supports OCR (Optical Character Recognition), enabling you to convert scanned documents into editable and searchable text. In conclusion, PDF Element is a versatile and reliable solution for all your PDF needs. With its user-friendly interface and comprehensive set of features, it empowers you to take full control over your documents. Whether you're an individual or a business professional, PDF Element simplifies the management and editing of PDF files, making your life easier and more productive.
Yes. DocHub's free plan is a perfect fit for one-offs or occasional projects. You can start using DocHub’s Free Plan straight away after completing the quick account registration. No learning is needed. The DocHub Pro Plan has a 30-day free trial so you have enough time to test the product.
Yes, Smallpdf is absolutely free for you to use! This amazing platform allows you to convert, compress, and edit your PDF files easily and efficiently. With Smallpdf, you can perform a wide range of tasks without any cost involved. Whether you need to convert a Word document to PDF or compress a large file, Smallpdf has got you covered. The user-friendly interface and intuitive features make it a breeze to navigate and process your documents. So, rest assured, you can rely on Smallpdf to handle your PDF needs without spending a dime. Start using Smallpdf today, and experience the convenience and reliability it offers.
Yes, PDF Element is absolutely free to use! Its user-friendly interface and multitude of features make it a must-have tool for all your PDF needs. With PDF Element, you can effortlessly edit, convert, annotate, and secure your PDF files with just a few clicks. Whether you're a student, professional, or simply someone who frequently works with PDFs, this versatile software is here to simplify your life. From editing text and images to merging and splitting documents, PDF Element covers it all. Furthermore, its intuitive design ensures a seamless experience, even for those who are not tech-savvy. So go ahead and download PDF Element today, and unlock a whole new world of PDF editing possibilities.
DocHub has straightforward pricing that includes one free plan and one paid plan. If you need to get documents done once in a while, the Free Plan is just the thing for you. It includes all the PDF tools to help you edit, sign, share, and organize your documents. For a growing document workflow, we recommend the DocHub Pro plan at $14 per user per month. It includes unlimited PDF capabilities and priority tech support. You can even test it free for 30 days before buying.
Smallpdf offers multiple pricing plans for individuals and businesses. Here are the details of their plans: 1. Free Plan: - Price: Free - Features: Limited features are available for free, including basic conversions and compressions. Access to only a few tools. 2. Pro Plan: - Price: $12/month (billed annually) or $15/month (billed monthly) - Features: Unlimited access to all tools without watermarks, ability to convert to and from different formats, OCR (Optical Character Recognition) feature, 1 GB maximum file size, personalized branding, and priority support. 3. Standard Plan: - Price: $20/month (billed annually) or $24/month (billed monthly) - Features: All features of the Pro plan, along with additional features such as batch processing, unlimited maximum file size, and the option to request a specific tool. 4. Pro Team Plan: - Price: Starting from $45/month (billed annually) for two users. Additional users can be added at extra cost. - Features: All features of the Standard plan, with the ability to collaborate with team members, centralized billing, and enhanced user administration. 5. Business Plan: - Pricing: Available upon request - Features: Tailored plans for larger organizations or enterprises with advanced features, custom integrations, priority support, and dedicated account management. Please note that the pricing mentioned above is valid at the time of writing this response, and Smallpdf may update their pricing plans. It's best to visit their official website for the most up-to-date and accurate information regarding pricing.
PDFelement offers three different plans for users: 1. PDFelement Standard: This plan is designed for individual users and costs $69.95 for a one-time purchase. It includes essential features for creating, editing, and converting PDFs on both Windows and macOS platforms. 2. PDFelement Professional: This plan is suitable for business users, offering advanced features to enhance productivity. It costs $79.95 for a one-time purchase. Along with all the features of the Standard plan, it includes OCR technology, form creation and data extraction, batch processing, and more. 3. PDFelement Business: Specifically tailored for larger organizations, this plan offers seamless document workflow and collaboration solutions. The pricing for this plan is based on a per-seat license, with volume discounts available for larger teams. It includes all the features of the Professional plan and provides additional tools for team collaboration, document tracking, and centralized control. Note: The prices mentioned here are subject to change, and it's advisable to visit the official website or contact PDFelement directly for the most up-to-date information.
Yes, Smallpdf is safe. Rest assured, our platform prioritizes your security and privacy every step of the way. By utilizing advanced encryption protocols, we ensure that your documents are securely uploaded, processed, and downloaded. Your files are never shared with anyone and are automatically deleted from our servers after an hour. Additionally, our website is regularly monitored and protected against any potential threats. So, feel confident in entrusting your documents to Smallpdf, where safety and trust are our top priorities.
PDF Element is indeed safe and reliable for your document needs. You can trust that your files are in secure hands when using this software. With active measures in place to ensure the privacy and protection of your documents, PDF Element offers a trustworthy environment to handle your sensitive information. Rest assured, your data will remain confidential throughout your interaction with this software. So, feel confident in using PDF Element for all your PDF needs - it's the reliable and secure choice for managing your documents.
The main DocHub alternatives are Lumin PDF, Small PDF, PDF escape, and others. However, DocHub’s ease of use, flexibility, affordability, and deep Google integrations are the reasons why DocHub is ahead of the competition.
If you're looking for a Smallpdf alternative, there are plenty of fantastic options out there that can cater to your needs. One great alternative that is definitely worth mentioning is DocHub, but let's not focus solely on that. Here are ten top-notch alternatives for you to consider: 1. DocHub - a versatile and user-friendly platform that allows you to edit, sign, and share PDF documents hassle-free. 2. Adobe Acrobat Reader - a trusted name in the industry, providing an extensive set of features for viewing, editing, and signing PDF files. 3. PDFelement - a powerful tool that offers a comprehensive range of PDF editing features, allowing you to annotate, convert, and collaborate seamlessly. 4. Nitro PDF - a robust application that enables you to create, edit, and convert PDF documents effortlessly. 5. Foxit PhantomPDF - a reliable software equipped with advanced editing tools, security features, and collaboration capabilities. 6. PDFpen - a Mac-specific alternative that offers an array of editing tools, OCR functionality, and the ability to add signatures. 7. Soda PDF - a user-friendly and feature-rich platform that lets you create, convert, and edit PDF files with ease. 8. Sejda PDF Editor - an online PDF editor that allows you to edit text, merge files, and compress documents effortlessly. 9. PDFescape - a web-based platform that lets you edit, annotate, and fill out PDF forms without any software installation. 10. SmallSeoTools - an all-in-one solution for your PDF needs, offering features such as conversion, merging, compressing, and more. Each of these alternatives provides unique features and functionality, ensuring that you'll find the perfect fit for your specific requirements. Give them a try, and you'll be amazed at how efficiently you can handle your PDF documents!
If you're looking for an alternative to PDF Element, you're in luck! There are numerous options out there that can meet your PDF editing needs with ease. Let's explore the top 10 alternatives that you might find useful on your quest for the perfect PDF editing tool. 1. DocHub: A powerful and user-friendly alternative that tops the list. DocHub allows you to edit, sign, and share PDFs effortlessly. Its intuitive interface and extensive features make it a fantastic choice. 2. Adobe Acrobat DC: A well-known veteran in the PDF editing world, Adobe Acrobat DC offers a comprehensive set of tools for editing, converting, and organizing PDFs. Its advanced features make it ideal for professionals. 3. Smallpdf: A handy online platform that allows you to edit, compress, convert, and protect PDFs. Smallpdf provides a simple and efficient user experience, making it an excellent option for those seeking convenience. 4. Nitro Pro: With its robust editing capabilities and seamless collaboration features, Nitro Pro empowers users to create, edit, and share PDFs effortlessly. It offers a wide range of tools and is particularly popular among businesses. 5. Foxit PhantomPDF: Known for its speed and efficiency, Foxit PhantomPDF offers a plethora of features for PDF editing and collaboration. It's compatible with various operating systems and provides a smooth user experience. 6. PDFsam: If you're looking for a free and open-source PDF editor, PDFsam might be the perfect choice for you. With its split, merge, and extract functionalities, it's a great option for simple PDF editing tasks. 7. PDF-XChange Editor: Combining powerful features with a user-friendly design, PDF-XChange Editor excels at document annotation, conversion, and editing. Its extensive range of tools caters to both beginners and advanced users. 8. Sejda PDF Editor: Sejda offers a web-based PDF editing solution that is both feature-rich and easy to use. It allows you to edit text, add images, sign documents, and much more, all within a sleek and intuitive interface. 9. Able2Extract Professional: Designed for professional users, Able2Extract Professional offers advanced PDF editing, conversion, and creation features. Its precise document reconstruction and OCR capabilities set it apart. 10. PDFelement Pro: While seeking alternatives to PDF Element, don't overlook PDFelement Pro. With a feature set comparable to the tool you're looking to replace, PDFelement Pro provides a familiar editing experience and a smooth transition. These are just a few of the top alternatives available in the market. Each option offers its own unique features and strengths, so take your time to explore them and find the one that suits your specific requirements. Happy PDF editing!