Goodnotes vs Smallpdf: Which PDF Tool tool is Best in 2025?

All these tools Goodnotes , Smallpdf offer flexible pricing models suitable for students, business executives seeking AI-powered solutions to enhance their PDF Tool efforts.

Goodnotes

Starting from
custom
Pricing Model:
  • Free - $0
  • All Platforms Yearly - Custom

Smallpdf

Starting from
$8.76/month
Pricing Model:
  • Free Plan - $0
  • Pro Plan - $8.76/user/month
  • Team Plan - $6.82/user/month
  • Business Plan - Custom

These AI tools are among the best PDF Tool tools available in 2026. For students, business executives, tools like Goodnotes , Smallpdf help streamline the PDF Tool process by offering AI-powered features.

What is Goodnotes?

Goodnotes is an AI-powered note-taking app that feels like a digital journal bursting with possibilities. Goodnotes 6 lets you handwrite or type notes, annotate PDFs, and convert handwriting to text with spellcheck and math assistance. It offers customizable pens, templates, stickers, and unlimited folders for organization. Search handwritten notes, collaborate in real-time, and present with a laser pointer. Sync across iOS, Android, Windows, and Web, export as PDFs, and use fun tools like lasso and shape recognition. It is perfect for students, professionals managing meetings, or creative journaling.

What is Smallpdf?

Smallpdf is an all-in-one PDF tool that provides functions including converting, compressing, editing, and eSigning tools. As a user-friendly software tool with cutting-edge tools and functions, Smallpdf is an ideal choice for anyone who wants to reduce work time and be more efficient.

Goodnotes
(4.3/5)
  • Accuracy and Reliability:
    4
  • Cost-Efficiency:
    4.5
  • Customization and Flexibility:
    4.5
  • Data Privacy and Security:
    4
  • Ease of Use:
    4.5
  • Functionality and Features:
    5
  • Integration Capabilities:
    4
  • Performance and Speed:
    4
  • Support and Resources:
    4
Smallpdf
(4.9/5)
  • Accuracy and Reliability:
    4.9
  • Cost-Efficiency:
    4.8
  • Customization and Flexibility:
    4.9
  • Data Privacy and Security:
    4.9
  • Ease of Use:
    4.8
  • Functionality and Features:
    4.9
  • Integration Capabilities:
    4.9
  • Performance and Speed:
    4.8
  • Support and Resources:
    4.9
Goodnotes
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Smallpdf
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Goodnotes

Pros

Intuitive handwriting experience feels like real paper.

Robust sync across multiple platforms.

Strong privacy with on-device processing.

The free tier offers solid starting features.

Extensive template marketplace.

Cons

Android version lags behind iOS in performance.

Subscription is required for unlimited notebooks.

The typing interface can feel clunky.

Occasional sync issues were reported.

Smallpdf

Pros

User-Friendly

Comprehensive Tools

Cloud-Based

Mobile App

High Security

Cons

Cost for Full Features

File Size Limits

Dependence on Internet

Potential Learning Curve

If you're looking for other PDF Tool tools for students, business executives, you can also explore SwifDoo PDF, ChatPDF AI, Ask AI Questions Online, Free AI PDF Reader, AI PDF Summarizer by PDF Guru, which are highly rated in 2025.

Goodnotes
  • Not Data Available!
Smallpdf
  • Smallpdf AG
  • Zurich, Switzerland