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The Smallpdf Alternative With No Upload, No Limits, No Watermark

Smallpdf is a solid, well-built tool — but its free tier applies daily download limits across its tools, and every file you convert is uploaded to its servers first. File Genie takes a different approach: every conversion happens locally in your browser, so your file never leaves your device — and there is no daily limit, no watermark, and no account to create.

File Genie vs Smallpdf at a glance

Feature comparison between File Genie and Smallpdf
 File GenieSmallpdf
File ever leaves your deviceNo — 100% browser-basedYes — uploaded to their servers for processing
Free-tier usage limitsNoneDaily download limits across most tools
Batch processing on the free tierYes — up to 5 files at onceNo — batch compress and batch convert are paid features
OCR on the free tierYes, unlimitedPDF OCR has a daily download limit; OCR to Word, Excel, and PowerPoint is paid-only
Account requiredNoNot for most tools, though some features require an account
PriceFreeFree tier plus paid Pro, Team, and Business plans
Works offline once loadedYesNo

Smallpdf column checked against their published pricing page in September 2026. Plans and limits change — check their site for the latest.

Frequently asked questions

Is File Genie really free, with no catch?

Yes. Every tool is free with no task limits, because there is no server-side processing cost — your browser does the work.

Is it safe to convert sensitive documents (IDs, contracts) with File Genie?

Yes — files are processed entirely on your device and never transmitted anywhere, which is safer than uploading to any cloud converter.

What can’t File Genie do that Smallpdf can?

Smallpdf offers cloud-based e-signatures, PDF editing, and team collaboration features File Genie doesn’t — File Genie is focused specifically on fast, private conversion.

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