CommonLook PDF vs PAC (PDF Accessibility Checker)

CommonLook PDF helps organizations remediate PDFs for accessibility and compliance. Users can choose an advanced or simplified editor based on their experience and document complexity. AI-driven tagging assists with tables, lists, forms, and other elements, while manual tagging tools and a Fix Wizard support review and correction. The software provides PDF tagging, reading-order, and alternative-text tools, and validates against WCAG, PDF/UA, and HHS standards. It can generate bookmarks from document headings and supply a downloadable Validation Report showing passed, failed, and warning issues. A system of record tracks remediation history and lets users remove older files or download accessible PDFs with their reports. The desktop version is an on-premises plugin for Adobe Acrobat Pro or Pro DC. Allyant offers live and on-demand training and a CommonLook Knowledge Base. The product is designed for users of every ability and organizations addressing requirements such as Section 508, ADA Title II, and the EAA. Pricing is available on request, and a seven-day trial is listed.

PAC (PDF Accessibility Checker) is a free Windows desktop application for assessing PDF accessibility. Its Free plan costs nothing and includes PDF/UA and WCAG checks, quality checks, and AI-assisted checks. PAC covers WCAG 2.2 and combines automated scans with manual review tools. It also provides remediation guidance for addressing accessibility issues. The application is made by PAC (PDF Accessibility Checker), founded in 2010 and headquartered in Zurich, Switzerland. Windows is the listed platform. Mobile testing, a browser extension, and CI/CD integration are not included among its capabilities. The stated product scope is PDF accessibility checking, with checks aimed at PDF/UA and WCAG requirements rather than broad application testing. For Windows users reviewing PDF files, the free plan brings automated analysis, reviewer-led assessment, quality checks, AI-assisted checks, and guidance for remediation into one desktop application. Its feature set is focused on document accessibility rather than multi-platform testing.