Are these PDF merger tools actually free or do they have hidden costs?

PDF24 is 100% free with no hidden costs, subscriptions, or time limits—it’s supported by advertising. PDF Candy and XConvert are also free to use, though they may display ads or offer optional sign-in for additional features.

Will my PDF files be safe and private after merging?

PDF24 deletes files from its servers one hour after merging. PDF Candy also deletes uploads within two hours and does not share content with third parties. XConvert does not mention a specific deletion timeframe in the excerpt.

Can I rearrange the order of pages before merging?

PDF24 and PDF Candy both support drag-and-drop reordering of files before merging. XConvert allows reordering but processes files sequentially rather than with a drag interface.

Do I need to create an account to merge PDFs?

XConvert and PDF24 do not require sign-up to use the merge function. PDF Candy requires sign-in (Google, Apple, or email) to continue using the tool after the initial access.

Which tool works best on mobile devices?

PDF Candy is designed to work on any device including Android and iOS without additional software. PDF24 is optimized for desktop use but accessible via mobile browser, while XConvert supports uploads from cloud storage services that may be mobile-friendly.

PDF Tools3 options compared

Merge PDF

Merges multiple PDF files into one document with drag-to-reorder support, allowing for flexible arrangement of pages from different documents. Helps users combine separate PDFs, such as reports, images, or forms, into a single file for easier sharing or archiving. Ideal for students, professionals, and anyone needing to consolidate multiple documents into a cohesive package.

conversion pdf documents files

Editors’ Top PickBased on community votes

PDF Candy

pdfcandy.com

Combines multiple PDF files into a single document.

Open PDF Candy Read review →

Other OptionsRanked by votes

02
02
PDF24
pdf24.org
Combines multiple PDF files into a single document with drag-to-reorder support.
Open site View details
03
03
XConvert
xconvert.com
Combines multiple PDF documents into a single file.
Open site View details

Side by side

Merge PDF options compared

Tool	Best for	Strengths	Limitations
PDF Candy pdfcandy.com	Mobile-friendly merging	Works on any device including phones and tablets No software installation required Content preserved without watermarks	Relies on advertising to stay free Requires sign-in for full access
PDF24 pdf24.org	Completely free with no ads	100% free with no hidden costs or subscriptions Files deleted after one hour for privacy Highly rated with 4.9 stars from 24k users	Advertising covers expenses, so ads appear on the page Desktop app required for offline use
XConvert xconvert.com	Quick merges without sign-up	No sign-up required to use the tool Preserves formatting, fonts, and images exactly Supports cloud storage like Google Drive and Dropbox	Processes files sequentially rather than with drag reorder No mention of file deletion privacy policy

Buyer's guide

How to choose a merge pdf

When picking a PDF merger, first decide if you need drag-to-reorder support to arrange pages in a specific order. If yes, PDF24 offers the most complete free experience with drag reordering and strong privacy protections. If you merge primarily from a phone or tablet, PDF Candy works well on mobile browsers. Consider whether you mind occasional ads—PDF24 is free because of advertising, while PDF Candy also uses ads but may require sign-in for full access. For occasional use, any of these three will handle basic merging without cost or registration.

Questions

Merge PDF FAQ

Are these PDF merger tools actually free or do they have hidden costs?: PDF24 is 100% free with no hidden costs, subscriptions, or time limits—it’s supported by advertising. PDF Candy and XConvert are also free to use, though they may display ads or offer optional sign-in for additional features.
Will my PDF files be safe and private after merging?: PDF24 deletes files from its servers one hour after merging. PDF Candy also deletes uploads within two hours and does not share content with third parties. XConvert does not mention a specific deletion timeframe in the excerpt.
Can I rearrange the order of pages before merging?: PDF24 and PDF Candy both support drag-and-drop reordering of files before merging. XConvert allows reordering but processes files sequentially rather than with a drag interface.
Do I need to create an account to merge PDFs?: XConvert and PDF24 do not require sign-up to use the merge function. PDF Candy requires sign-in (Google, Apple, or email) to continue using the tool after the initial access.
Which tool works best on mobile devices?: PDF Candy is designed to work on any device including Android and iOS without additional software. PDF24 is optimized for desktop use but accessible via mobile browser, while XConvert supports uploads from cloud storage services that may be mobile-friendly.

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