AvePDF vs PDFOptim

AvePDF is a browser-based service for editing, converting, and managing PDF and other electronic documents. Its tools cover merging, splitting, compression, conversion, protection, redaction, signing, OCR, PDF/A conversion and validation, and scanning. The converter handles more than 100 formats, including raster and vector images, office and text formats, CAD, and SVG. Files can be uploaded from Google Drive, Dropbox, or a web address, with results saved to cloud storage. The Free plan costs nothing and includes 50+ document tools, 2 processing operations per 6 hours, files up to 128 MB, and up to 10 files per processing. Premium costs $45 a year, billed annually as one payment per user; it includes unlimited processing, files up to 512 MB, and up to 100 files per processing, as well as no ads, technical support, and early beta access. Free-service uploads may be retained to improve services, including to train models; Premium files are not retained. Premium subscribers also receive multiple levels of encryption.

PDFOptim compresses and optimizes PDF files to reduce their size while retaining visual quality. Four automatic methods analyze a document and apply a compression approach, while a synchronized side-by-side preview lets users compare the original and compressed files before saving. Manual controls include JPEG quality, image downsampling, color profiles, and hidden metadata removal. The Mac app can process folders in batches using multiple CPU cores and drag-and-drop queues. Scanned documents can be converted to grayscale, monochrome, or bitonal profiles; RootRise says this can produce files up to 40 times smaller. A five-level vector optimization feature removes excess anchor paths and structural data from vector-heavy PDFs. Apple Shortcuts can trigger compression, and the maker describes using the app as a Finder Quick Action. RootRise says processing runs locally, files are not uploaded, and core features work offline; internet is used for purchase validation. The free version allows one compressed PDF export per week and restricts Shortcuts Actions. Premium plans are $0.99 a month, $6.99 a year, or $9.99, paid once.