- Sharon Hafuta
- Jan 29
- 7 min read
Updated: 4 days ago
The best PDF combiners and best PDF merging software help you quickly combine multiple files into a single, organized PDF. That means the right PDF combiner should be fast, reliable and easy to use.
In this post, you’ll discover the best platforms for merging PDFs in 2026, plus what to look for when choosing a solution.
Along the way, we’ll also highlight options that include a free online PDF converter and PDF editor, so you can merge, edit and convert without switching tools.
Ready to merge your PDFs in seconds? Start with Wixel and see how easy it can be.
Wixel is a PDF editor that lets you edit text, add annotations and insert signatures without switching tools. Wixel also includes a PDF converter that turns Word, JPG and other file types into PDFs in seconds, plus a PDF merger that combines multiple files into one clean, shareable document.
TL;DR: best PDF combiners
If you just want the fastest answer, here it is: the best PDF combiners in 2026 are ranked based on speed, ease of use and value.
Below are the top options depending on what you need, whether that’s a free tool, an online platform or a powerful desktop app.
"Choosing the right PDF tool can save hours of work each week. A platform like Wixel not only merges files quickly but also gives you editing and conversion options in one place, which is essential for both professionals and everyday users." - Idan Cohen, Wixel SEO strategist
The best PDF combiners & PDF merging software in 2026
Below are the top platforms that make merging PDF files simple, fast and reliable.
Jump to a platform:
01. Wixel
Wixel is a PDF merging tool that helps you combine multiple files into a single, well-structured document in just a few clicks. Wixel is built for everyday PDF tasks, making it easy to upload files, reorder pages and merge PDFs without technical setup or prior experience.
As one of the best PDF editors for quick, online use, Wixel also includes a free PDF converter and editor, so you can convert Word or image files to PDF, add text or signatures and manage everything in one place. It’s a simple, practical solution for anyone wondering how to make a PDF or edit one efficiently.
Best features:
Merge PDFs quickly in just a few clicks
Drag-and-drop file uploads
Supports multiple file formats, including PDF, DOCX, JPG and PNG: use it as a JPG to PDF converter or PNG to PDF converter
Built-in PDF editor for adding text, signatures and annotations
Free online PDF converter included
Cloud storage integrations (where applicable)
Pricing: Wixel pricing ranges from a free plan to paid plans starting at $9/month (billed annually). Month-to-month payment options also available.
Explore more: best PDF converters.
02. Soda PDF
Soda PDF is a full-featured PDF solution with strong desktop and online merging capabilities. It’s best for users who want a powerful PDF tool that goes beyond basic merging.
Best features:
Merge and split PDFs easily
Full PDF editor with annotation tools
OCR (optical character recognition) for scanned PDFs
Desktop and online versions available
Batch processing for multiple files
Secure file encryption options
Pricing: Pricing starts at $6.57/mo (billed annually). Month-to-month pricing is also available.
03. iLove PDF
iLovePDF is a popular online PDF tool known for its ease of use and broad feature set. It’s a strong option if you want an all-in-one platform for merging, converting, compressing and editing PDFs.
Best features:
Merge PDFs quickly online
Convert PDF to Word, PowerPoint and image formats
Compress PDF files
Add watermarks and page numbers
Batch processing for multiple files
Simple interface for fast workflows
Pricing: Free plan available. Paid plans start at $5/mo (billed annually). Month-to-month pricing is also available.
04. PDF Chef
PDF Chef is a lightweight PDF tool that offers basic merging and editing features. It’s a good option for users who want a clean, no-frills interface and companies searching for a PDF software solution to edit and convert PDF files online.
Best features:
Merge PDFs with simple drag-and-drop
Basic PDF editing tools
Convert PDF to other formats
Split PDFs and reorder pages
Lightweight app for fast performance
Pricing: Free trial available. Paid plans start at $29.95/user/year.
05. UPDF
UPDF is a PDF editor and merging tool designed for users who want a balance between simplicity and advanced functionality. UPDF supports PDF merging across desktop and mobile devices, making it useful for users who switch between platforms. UPDF also includes editing, annotation and conversion tools, allowing users to manage multiple PDF tasks within one interface.
Best features:
Merge multiple PDF files into a single document
Reorder, rotate, and delete pages before merging
PDF editing tools for text, annotations and highlights
Convert PDFs to and from Word, Excel and image formats
Available on Windows, macOS, iOS and Android
Offline access for desktop users
Pricing: Paid plans start at $49.99/year.
06. MobiPDF
MobiPDF is a PDF editor and merging tool built for users who want essential PDF functionality without a complex setup. MobiPDF supports PDF merging on desktop devices and focuses on straightforward workflows for editing, organizing and sharing PDF files. MobiPDF also includes conversion and basic security features, making it suitable for everyday document tasks.
Best features:
Merge multiple PDF files into one document
Edit text, add annotations, and highlight content
Reorder, rotate, and delete pages
Convert PDFs to and from Word and image formats
Password protection and basic security controls
Desktop-based workflow for offline use
Pricing: Paid plans start at $6.69/mo (billed annually). Month-to-month pricing is also available.
07. SpeedPDF
SpeedPDF is a lightweight, browser-based PDF tool designed for quick, everyday document tasks. It lets you edit, convert, compress and manage PDFs without installing software.
What SpeedPDF offers:
PDF conversion to and from Word, Excel, PowerPoint and images
Tools to compress, merge, split and edit PDFs
Browser-based experience with no setup required
Simple interface built for speed and ease of use
Pricing: Paid plans start at $2.80 (one month VIP).
Learn more:
Best PDF merging software: feature comparison table
Platform | Best for | Free plan | Editor included | Online/Offline |
Wixel | Merging, editing, and converting PDFs in one place | Yes | Yes | Online |
Soda PDF | Advanced PDF workflows and desktop editing | Free trial | Yes | Online + Offline |
iLovePDF | Simple online PDF merging and file conversion | Yes | Limited | Online |
PDF Chef | Lightweight PDF merging and basic editing | No | Yes | Offline |
UPDF | Cross-platform PDF merging and editing | Limited | Yes | Online + Offline |
MobiPDF | Everyday PDF editing and offline merging | Free trial | Yes | Offline |
SpeedPDF | Fast, browser-based PDF merging | Limited | Limited | Online |
How to choose the best PDF merging software
Choosing the best PDF combiner depends on your workflow, the devices you use and the additional features you need. Here’s a breakdown to help you decide:
Do you want an all-in-one solution for merging, converting and editing PDFs?
Wixel is designed for users who need more than just merging. With Wixel, you can:
Merge multiple PDFs quickly
Convert Word, Excel and image files to PDF
Edit text, add annotations and insert signatures
Access everything online without installing software
Do you need offline desktop software?
If you often work without an internet connection, a desktop tool can help. Offline apps allow you to merge PDFs safely and securely. Key benefits include:
No reliance on internet speed or file upload limits
Full control over document privacy
Access to local file storage and batch processing
Are advanced editing or OCR features important?
For more complex PDF workflows, such as scanned documents or searchable files, look for a tool that offers:
Optical Character Recognition (OCR) for scanned PDFs
Advanced editing capabilities
Batch processing for multiple documents
Do you want a lightweight, easy-to-use tool?
If simplicity and speed are your priorities, a lightweight platform can save time. Features to consider include:
Fast merging of files
Minimal interface clutter
Basic editing tools for occasional changes
Explore Wixel's AI image generator →
Why trust Wixel’s experts
Wixel’s team consists of experienced PDF and document management professionals who understand the challenges of everyday workflows.
They have spent years designing tools that make merging, editing and converting PDFs faster, simpler and more reliable for work, school and personal projects.
Wixel’s experts combine technical expertise with user-focused design to ensure every feature is intuitive, secure and practical. From seamless PDF merging to integrated conversion and editing tools, their solutions are built on industry best practices and real-world testing.
Editor’s Note: Prices and plan details mentioned in this article are accurate as of January 2026. Pricing and features may change over time, so we recommend checking each platform’s official website for the most up-to-date information.
Best PDF combiners FAQ
What is the best PDF combiner?
The best PDF combiner depends on how often you work with PDFs and what you need to do beyond merging. For most users, Wixel is a strong choice because it combines fast PDF merging with built-in editing and conversion tools. This means you can merge files, adjust content, add signatures or convert documents without switching between multiple platforms. It’s especially useful for users who want a simple workflow that still covers common PDF tasks.
Is there free PDF merging software?
Yes, Wixel offers a free plan that allows you to merge PDFs directly in your browser without downloading any software. With Wixel, you can combine multiple files into a single, well-organized PDF while also accessing essential features like editing text, adding annotations, inserting signatures and converting Word or image files into PDFs. This makes it an all-in-one solution for users who want more than just basic merging, all without switching between multiple tools.
Can I merge PDFs online for free?
Yes, several platforms allow you to merge PDFs online for free. Wixel offers browser-based PDF merging without requiring software downloads. Online tools are ideal for quick tasks, remote work or shared devices. Keep in mind that free online plans may include limits on file size, daily usage or advanced editing features.
Does merging PDFs reduce quality?
Merging PDFs by itself does not reduce file quality. The original text, images and layout remain unchanged when files are simply combined. However, quality may be affected if the tool also compresses files or converts them to a different format during the process. To avoid quality loss, choose a PDF merger that preserves original resolution and gives you control over compression settings.