PDFCloak
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PDF Cloak vs Smallpdf

Smallpdf is popular for a reason. But popularity doesn't mean privacy.

FEATURE
PDF CLOAK
SMALLPDF
File privacy
Files never leave your device
Files uploaded, deleted after 1 hour
Account required
No account needed
Account required for most tools
Price
Free, unlimited
2 free tasks/day, Pro from $12/mo
Offline support
Works offline
Desktop app available (paid)
Processing engine
Open-source, client-side
Proprietary, server-side
File size limit
Up to 100MB per file (device memory is the real limit)
Up to 5GB (Pro)
E-signatures
Visual signatures, client-side
eSign with audit trail (Pro)
Data residency
Your device only
EU servers (AWS)

Frequently asked questions

Is PDF Cloak a Smallpdf alternative?

Yes, for users who prioritize privacy. Smallpdf uploads your files for server-side processing. PDF Cloak keeps everything in your browser.

Why is Smallpdf more expensive?

Smallpdf runs servers that process your files, store them temporarily, and provide features like OCR and e-signatures with audit trails. These require infrastructure. PDF Cloak has minimal server costs because your device does the work.

Does Smallpdf sell my data?

Smallpdf states they do not sell data, but files do transit their servers. With PDF Cloak, the question is moot — no file data ever reaches us.

Ready to try the private alternative?

No signup. No uploads. Just open a tool and go.

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