11 Best Add Page Numbers to PDF Tools (2024) [FREE]

1. Introduction

In the landscape of digital documents, one tool that stands as a crucial factor for readers and document handlers alike is the Add Page Numbers to PDF tool. This powerful tool facilitates effortless navigation and organization of PDF documents, which can in turn enhance the readability and professionalism of your digital resources.

1.1 Importance of Add Page Numbers to PDF tool

Adding page numbers to a PDF is important for several reasons. For one, when working with large or complex PDF files, having page numbers can drastically streamline the process of finding specific sections or content within the document. Secondly, they serve as a useful guide for referencing and quoting specific pages in scholarly articles, legal documents, or technical reports. Not to mention, page numbers also lend an aura of professionalism to your documents – something that’s a must in corporate and academic worlds.

1.2 Fix PDF Files

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1.3 Objectives of this Comparison

The main objective of this comparison is to aid you, the user, in identifying which tool best fits your specific requirements for adding page numbers to PDFs. As each tool has its own unique set of features, pros, and cons, this comparison will provide a clear and concise overview of each, making your decision-making process a lot easier. We have gathered the top-notch Add Page Numbers to PDF tools available in the market and will be comparing them on the basis of their functionality, ease of use, efficiency, and performance.

2. Adobe Acrobat Add Page Numbers To A PDF

Adobe Acrobat is one of the most popular and widely used PDF tools around the globe. Its ‘Add Page Numbers to PDF’ feature offers a robust and reliable solution for inserting page numbers into your PDF documents. This tool is part of Adobe’s comprehensive suite of PDF handling capabilities and is known for its unrivaled reliability and efficiency.

2.1 Pros

• Advanced options: Adobe Acrobat provides advanced options for adding page numbers. You can choose to add numbers only to specific pages, set the starting number, change the number formatting, and more.
• Batch processing: This tool allows you to add page numbers to multiple PDFs simultaneously, thus saving time and effort on large-scale tasks.
• Integration: Since it comes integrated with Adobe’s suite of services, you can conveniently manage and modify your PDF documents without the need to switch between platforms.

2.2 Cons

• Cost: Adobe Acrobat is a premium tool. While it does offer a free trial, full access to all features requires the purchase of a subscription.
• Complexity: New users might find Adobe Acrobat’s vast array of features a tad intimidating. Despite its top-notch capabilities, the complexity of its interface could be a stumbling block for some.

3. iLovePDF Add PDF Page Numbers

iLovePDF is a versatile online PDF management platform renowned for its simple and intuitive user interface. The ‘Add PDF Page Numbers’ feature of this tool offers both simplicity and effectiveness, making it an ideal pick for individuals who prefer an uncomplicated PDF numbering experience.

3.1 Pros

• Easy to use: iLovePDF is specially designed to provide a user-friendly experience. Its straightforward interface and understandable instructions make the process of adding page numbers remarkably simple.
• Efficient processing: This online tool swiftly adds page numbers, reducing waiting time, and leading to greater productivity.
• Multilingual support: iLovePDF supports multiple languages, making it a more accessible option for global users.

3.2 Cons

• Limited features for free users: Although the tool is free to use, more advanced features require purchasing a premium plan.
• Dependency on Internet connection: As iLovePDF is mainly an online service, ensuring a stable and strong internet connection is crucial for a smooth experience of the tool.

4. Smallpdf Add & Insert Page Numbers to PDF

Smallpdf is another prominent online tool specially designed for dealing with PDFs. Its ‘Add & Insert Page Numbers to PDF’ feature provides a super-easy method to insert page numbers into your documents. Smallpdf stands out with its clean, user-friendly interface combined with efficient performance.

4.1 Pros

• Simple and clean interface: Smallpdf boasts a minimalist design with crystal clear instructions, making it easy to navigate and use, even for beginners.
• Quick processing: The tool is able to add page numbers swiftly without significant loading time.
• Secure processing: Smallpdf values user security and deletes files from their servers after an hour, ensuring that your data is safe.

4.2 Cons

• Limitations in the free version: The free version of Smallpdf has certain limitations like processing a limited number of tasks per day. Access to all features requires a paid plan.
• Internet-dependent: Since Smallpdf is an online tool, the speed and stability of your internet connection matter a lot for smooth operation.

5. PDF24 Tools Add Page Numbers

PDF24 Tools is a collection of easy-to-use, free online PDF tools. Their ‘Add Page Numbers’ tool provides users with a clear and uncomplicated workflow to add page numbers to their PDF files without any need for downloading complex software. As a web-based tool, it effectively balances simplicity and functionality for a smooth user experience.

5.1 Pros

• Simplicity: The no-frills interface of PDF24 makes it very intuitive to use. You simply need to upload your file, customise your page numbers, and save the resulting PDF.
• Cost-free: PDF24 is completely free to use, with no hidden costs or subscription charges.
• Data security: PDF24 guarantees user data security by automatically deleting uploaded files after a short time.

5.2 Cons

• Basic Features: PDF24 has quite basic features compared to other tools, which might limit its versatility for more advanced needs.
• Internet Dependent: As a web-based service, the continuity and speed of operations are directly contingent on the reliability of your internet connection.

6. AvePDF Add Page Numbers to PDFs

AvePDF is a fast, secure, and easy-to-use suite of online tools for PDF files. Its ‘Add Page Numbers’ feature simplifies the task of adding page numbers to your PDFs in a few clicks. AvePDF supports both basic and advanced configurations to suit varied user needs.

6.1 Pros

• Flexible positioning: AvePDF allows you to choose the position of the page numbers, offering a level of customization to suit your preference.
• Data security: With AvePDF, your files are deleted automatically after a brief period, ensuring the privacy and security of your data.
• Efficiency: The tool’s process of adding page numbers is quick and efficient, reducing wait times.

6.2 Cons

• Limited free uses: AvePDF allows a limited number of free uses per day, beyond which you need to purchase a subscription to use the services.
• Internet-dependent: As an online service, the quality and speed of your internet connection can directly affect your experience with the tool.

7. Sejda Add PDF Page Numbers

Sejda is an intuitive online service that offers a wide range of tools for PDF file manipulation. The ‘Add Page Numbers’ feature from Sejda is a handy tool designed to affix page numbers to PDF documents swiftly and effortlessly. Its user-friendly interface and useful functionalities have earned it a renowned spot among its counterparts.

7.1 Pros

• Customizable page numbers: Sejda gives you complete control over where the page numbers appear in your document. Size, font, and location can all be adjusted according to your requirements.
• User-friendly design: Sejda’s design is simple and clean, facilitating a straightforward and seamless user experience.
• Data protection: Sejda respects user privacy and removes files after two hours, ensuring your documents’ safety.

7.2 Cons

• Limited free tasks: Sejda allows a limited number of tasks in its free version. For unrestricted access, premium plans are available.
• Relies on Internet Connectivity: As an online tool, your operation speed will be dependent on the stability and speed of your internet connection.

8. PdfForge Add page numbers to PDF

PdfForge is a renowned platform offering diverse tools for manipulating and creating PDF files. One of its effective features is the ‘Add page numbers to PDF’ tool, which stands out for its simplicity and speed. It offers an uncomplicated workflow and does not require users to install any software for adding page numbers to their PDFs.

8.1 Pros

• User-friendly Interface: PdfForge distinguishes itself with an intuitive user interface that makes it easy to navigate, even for beginners.
• Fast processing: PdfForge is known for its efficiency – it quickly adds numbers to the pages of your PDFs without keeping you waiting.
• Free to use: PdfForge’s tool for adding page numbers to PDFs is completely free of charge, making it a cost-effective solution for users.

8.2 Cons

• Basic functionalities: While it is simple and fast, PdfForge’s tool cannot compete with other tools in terms of advanced features and settings for adding page numbers.
• Online-only: Since PdfForge is fully online, a steady and reliable internet connection is needed for smooth operation.

9. A-PDF Number

A-PDF Number is a standalone program designed specifically to add page numbers to PDF files. This free software is quite handy and straightforward, perfect for users who only require the page numbering functionality and prefer not to navigate through a suite of other PDF tools.

9.1 Pros

• Stand-alone program: By being a stand-alone program, A-PDF Number operates independently of any other software or internet connection, which can prove beneficial for those working in low-connectivity areas.
• Simple interface: Its interface is clear-cut and user-friendly, making it ideal for users who prefer simplicity.
• Free of cost: A-PDF Number is completely free, which makes it an economical choice for individuals or businesses on a budget.

9.2 Cons

• Limited features: While A-PDF Number does its primary job well, it doesn’t provide a wide range of other features often found in comprehensive PDF programs.
• Requires download and installation: As a stand-alone program, you will need to download and install A-PDF Number on your machine, which is something not everyone may prefer.

10. Aspose Add PDF Page Numbers

Aspose is a comprehensive platform offering a multitude of applications and tools for file manipulation. Specifically, their ‘Add PDF Page Numbers’ feature provides an easy-to-follow online solution for numbering PDF pages. Aspose strikes a good balance between offering simplicity to the users and greater control over how page numbers appear on the pages.

10.1 Pros

• Comprehensive settings: With Aspose, you have a wide variety of options to tailor the placement and appearance of your page numbers, offering both basic and advanced customizations.
• Data privacy: Aspose takes user privacy seriously by providing secure connections and automatic file deletion post-processing.
• Ease of use: The Aspose interface is intuitive and easy to navigate, even for first-time users.

10.2 Cons

• Free version limits: Although Aspose PDF is initially free, continual use will require a purchase for uninterrupted services.
• Internet dependence: The performance of this online tool depends on the speed and reliability of your internet connection.

11. PDFBear Add Page Numbers to PDF

PDFBear is an all-in-one online PDF converter and editor offering a range of tools for handling PDFs. Its ‘Add Page Numbers to PDF’ feature is a perfect blend of simplicity, speed, and efficiency, allowing users to insert page numbers into their PDF files quickly and easily directly from their web browser.

11.1 Pros

• Accessibility: PDFBear’s service is accessible from all platforms and devices with an internet connection, offering ease and flexibility to users.
• Quick Operation: PDFBear efficiently adds page numbers without a significant waiting time.
• Data security: PDFBear respects user privacy, adhering to a 60-minute policy where files are deleted from their servers after an hour.

11.2 Cons

• Dependency on internet connection: As an online tool, PDFBear requires a stable and strong internet connection for smooth operations.
• Limited for free users: Some advanced features of PDFBear are only available for premium users, and free users may face limitations in usage.

12. CleverPDF Insert Page Number to PDF

CleverPDF offers an array of online tools for PDF handling, and its ‘Insert Page Number to PDF’ feature stands out for providing a simple yet effective solution for adding page numbers to PDF files. The platform is perfectly designed to offer an intuitive and smooth user experience across devices.

12.1 Pros

• User-friendly: The CleverPDF interface is clean, minimal, and easy to navigate, making it a breeze to add page numbers to PDFs.
• Fast processing time: CleverPDF is highly efficient, adding page numbers swiftly and saving valuable user time.
• Data safety: CleverPDF ensures the security of your files by deleting them from the server within 30 minutes, ensuring utmost privacy.

12.2 Cons

• Internet-dependent: CleverPDF requires a steady internet connection to operate, which might be a challenge in areas with unstable connections.
• Limited free use: Some of the advanced features require a paid subscription, limiting the scope of free usage.

13. Summary

After digging deeper into each tool mentioned, it’s clear that each one has its place in handling PDF page number additions, depending on the specific needs of the user. Below is the summarized comparison of the tools.

13.1 Overall Comparison Table

Tool	Features	Ease of Use	Price	Customer Support
Adobe Acrobat Add Page Numbers To A PDF	Advanced options, Batch processing	Medium	Premium	High
iLovePDF Add PDF Page Numbers	Easy to use, Efficient processing	High	Free, Premium for advanced features	Medium
Smallpdf Add & Insert Page Numbers to PDF	Simple and clean interface, Quick processing	High	Free with limitations, Premium for full access	Medium
PDF24 Tools Add Page Numbers	Simplicity, Cost-free	High	Free	Low
AvePDF Add Page Numbers to PDFs	Flexible positioning, Efficiency	High	Free with limitations	Medium
Sejda Add PDF Page Numbers	Customizable page numbers, User-friendly design	High	Free with limitations, Premium for unlimited tasks	Medium
PdfForge Add page numbers to PDF	User-friendly Interface, Fast processing	High	Free	Low
A-PDF Number	Stand-alone program, Simple interface	High	Free	Low
Aspose Add PDF Page Numbers	Comprehensive settings, Ease of use	High	Free with limitations	High
PDFBear Add Page Numbers to PDF	Accessibility, Quick operation	High	Free with limitations	Medium
CleverPDF Insert Page Number to PDF	User-friendly, Fast processing time	High	Free	Medium

13.2 Recommended Tool Based on Various Needs

Selection of the right tool depends greatly on your specific needs:

• For advanced features and comprehensive services, including integration with other tools: Adobe Acrobat is the recommended option.
• For ease of use and a straightforward interface: Smallpdf, iLovePDF and CleverPDF are excellent choices.
• For cost-effectiveness: PDF24 Tools and PdfForge, offering totally free services, are the best picks.
• For flexibility in offline usage: A-PDF Number, being a standalone program, fulfills this need.

14. Conclusion

14.1 Final Thoughts and Takeaways for Choosing an Add Page Numbers to PDF Tool

In conclusion, the selection and implementation of a tool for adding page numbers to your PDFs should always be based on the specific needs you have. Numerous tools offer an array of different functionalities, each with their own strengths and weaknesses. Some deliver advanced features and comprehensive services, like Adobe Acrobat. Others stand out for their ease of use and intuitive interface, like Smallpdf, iLovePDF and CleverPDF.

If cost-effectiveness is your main aim, then free services like PDF24 Tools and PdfForge would be an excellent choice. And, when seeking flexibility in offline usage, a stand-alone program like A-PDF Number becomes the best option.

Ultimately, the best ‘Add Page Numbers to PDF’ tool for you will be the one that seamlessly integrates into your workflow, fulfills your unique needs, and is compatible with your budget.

Author Introduction:

Vera Chen is a data recovery expert in DataNumen, which provides a wide range of products, including a great MS Excel recovery product.