Chrome, a browser known for its convenience and powered by Google as the default search engine, stands as the reliable and top choice for many users. However, while Chrome includes a default PDF viewer, it might not always be convenient to work with multiple tabs or meet your future expectations. That's why we've curated a list of top PDF extensions, providing enhanced features and flexibility for your PDF needs.
Top 5 Google PDF Extension
For enhanced PDF capabilities, WPS Office now offers an extension for Chrome, primarily focused on viewing. While editing features are not yet available, it supports functions like highlighting, annotating, and commenting.
This extension proves beneficial for on-the-go tasks, simplifying the user experience and saving valuable time. Its lightweight nature enhances both Chrome and PDF interactions, making it a practical choice despite pending editing features.
Features
View, annotate, and comment on PDF documents in Chrome.
Supports .WPS files for text documents with fewer formatting options.
Convert WPS files to PDF using Microsoft Office or Adobe's online converter.
Offline conversion within WPS Office app for text and Excel files.
Pros
Seamless viewing, annotation, and commenting on PDFs in Chrome.
Convenient conversion of WPS files to PDF using various methods.
Offline conversion of text and Excel files with WPS Office app.
Cons
Limited formatting options for .WPS files compared to Word documents.
Adobe's online PDF converter may require internet access for file upload.
2. Adobe Acrobat
Adobe Acrobat's extension for Google Chrome brings the powerful features of this renowned PDF editor directly to the browser. Known for its user-friendly interface, Adobe Acrobat offers essential functionalities for reading, editing, converting, and signing PDFs, making it a versatile solution in the PDF era.
Features:
Seamless integration with Google Chrome for quick access.
Easy conversion of PDFs to various formats like DOCX, JPEG, and PNG.
Reading aloud PDFs for enhanced accessibility.
Printing PDFs directly from the browser.
Signing and filling out PDF forms effortlessly.
Pros:
Convenient access to Adobe Acrobat's features within the Chrome browser.
Versatile PDF conversion options for different formats.
Accessibility feature with text-to-speech functionality for reading aloud.
Streamlined printing of PDFs directly from the browser.
Effortless signing and filling out of PDF forms.
Cons:
Limited advanced editing features compared to the full desktop version.
Requires an internet connection for seamless functionality.
3. Smallpdf
Smallpdf, a robust PDF editor Chrome extension, excels in compressing, converting, and organizing PDFs. The user-friendly interface ensures seamless execution, redirecting users to the Smallpdf website for desired conversions.
Features:
Compress, convert, and organize PDFs effortlessly.
Open protected PDFs without passwords.
Edit: merge, redact, rotate, and rearrange PDF pages.
Convert various file formats into PDFs.
Lightweight online application for easy document management.
Integration support with Dropbox and Google Drive.
Mobile app for on-the-go PDF tasks.
Pros:
Intuitive and well-organized interface.
Drag and drop functionality for easy file processing.
Online-first design eliminates the need for installations.
Cons:
Limited functionality, lacking a dedicated mobile app.
Conversion issues: formatting, file sizes, picture quality.
Security concerns about handling personal data uploads.
4. PDFfiller Chrome Extension
PDFfiller, a dynamic PDF add-on extension, offers effective PDF editing, management, and signing capabilities. It facilitates easy editing, annotation, and signing of PDFs with the incorporation of geometrical shapes.
Features:
Edit, annotate, and sign PDFs effortlessly.
Incorporate various geometrical shapes into documents.
Cloud connectivity for accessibility across devices.
Instantly open PDFs from Gmail, search engine results, or web pages.
Editing features: add text, highlight, sign, and more.
Industry-leading security standards for data protection.
Seamless integration with Google Drive for editing, signing, saving, and sharing.
Pros:
Efficient PDF editing, annotation, and signing.
Cloud connectivity for accessible and synchronized documents.
Seamless integration with Google Drive for enhanced functionality.
Cons:
Free trial limited to 30 days, subscription required thereafter.
Limited information on specific features and functionalities.
No detailed information about pricing plans.
5. FormSwift PDF Editor
FormSwift is a Chrome extension that streamlines PDF editing, signing, and conversion directly within the browser. Users can easily edit PDFs by adding, removing, and highlighting text, as well as incorporating images and logos. The extension offers electronic signing functionality, allowing users to sign PDFs legally and request signatures from others, with compliance to the ESIGN Act.
Features:
Fill, highlight, add/remove text, and upload images without additional installations.
Quick and legal electronic signatures, compliant with the ESIGN Act.
Effortlessly convert between PDF, Word, and various image formats.
Pros:
Ensures secure and legally accepted digital signatures, meeting ESign standards.
Seamlessly integrates with Google Drive and Dropbox
Cons:
Not available for free; users must subscribe or pay for access
How to Install WPS PDF Extension
The installation of the WPS PDF extension is a straightforward process. Let's go through the steps:
Step 1: WPS PDF extension is available on the Chrome Web Store. Open your Chrome browser, visit the Chrome Web Store, and search for "WPS PDF extension".
Step 2: In the search results, click on the entry that reads "WPS PDF: Read and Comment PDF files".
Step 3: To install the WPS PDF extension on Chrome, click on "Add to Chrome".
Step 4: Chrome will prompt you to confirm the download. Click on "Add Extension" to confirm the installation.
Step 5: Once the installation is complete, the WPS PDF extension will open in a new tab. Take a tour and start using the WPS PDF extension for all your PDF needs while browsing with Chrome.
Unlike other extensions, the WPS PDF extension doesn't require any additional steps. Simply download it from the Chrome Web Store, and you can start using the WPS PDF extension. Additionally, WPS PDF extension provides users with easier access to advanced tools such as conversion, merging, and more.
WPS PDF Extension VS Google PDF Extension
Features |
WPS PDF Extension |
Google PDF Extension |
|---|---|---|
Viewing Experience |
Lightweight with advanced tools for editing |
Basic viewing capabilities |
Annotation & Interaction |
Allows highlighting, annotating, drawing, signing |
Limited to basic viewing |
Online Tools |
Enables online PDF conversion, merging, etc. |
Limited to viewing PDFs in the browser |
Default PDF Handling |
Can be set as the default PDF handler in Chrome |
Default option for viewing PDFs in Chrome |
Performance Impact |
Lightweight, minimal impact on browsing |
Lightweight, designed to minimize impact |
Additional Tools |
Offers advanced features like convert, merge, compress |
Limited features beyond basic viewing |
Customization |
Highly customizable settings and preferences |
Limited customization options |
Professional Use |
Ideal for professionals requiring extensive PDF interaction |
Suitable for basic PDF viewing in everyday use |
Comparison table of WPS PDF Extension VS Google PDF Extension
If you want to delve deeper into how to annotate PDF files directly in Google Chrome, click on the article link below to learn more information.
"How to Annotate PDF Files in Google Chrome(3 Common Methods)"
WPS Office as Your All-in-one Suite
WPS Office stands as a comprehensive suite of productivity tools, with the WPS PDF Extension serving as a valuable component within this suite. This extension, while notable for its PDF handling capabilities, is just one facet of the broader functionality offered by WPS Office.
WPS Office encompasses three main applications: Writer, dedicated to word processing; Presentation, tailored for creating impactful slideshows; and Spreadsheets, designed for efficient data management. This suite is recognized for its compatibility with various document formats, user-friendly interface, and robust collaboration features.
Now, for those thinking of getting WPS Office for themselves, here's how you can initiate the download:
Step 1: Kickstart the process by launching your web browser and visiting the WPS Office website. Click the prominent "Free Download" button at the center of the page.
Step 2: Locate the "wps_wid.exe" setup file in your Downloads list. Keep an eye on the top right or bottom left corner of your browser window.
Step 3: After agreeing to the terms and conditions, hit "Install Now" to commence the installation. WPS Office will automatically open once the setup is complete.
Step 4: Your installation is complete. Unleash your productivity superpowers with WPS Office!
FAQs
Q1. What is the Google version of a PDF?
The Google equivalent of a PDF is a Google Doc, and there are several methods available to convert a PDF to a Google Doc. One approach is through Google Drive:
Step 1: Sign in to your Google Drive account.
Step 2: Drag and drop your PDF file onto the Drive homepage to initiate the file upload process. Alternatively, click “New” in the top-left corner of your Drive homepage, then select “File Upload,” and choose your PDF file.
Step 3: After uploading the PDF to Drive, right-click the file, navigate to "Open with," and choose "Google Docs." The converted Google Doc will be visible on your Drive homepage within a few minutes.
Q2. How do I edit a PDF without Adobe?
Xara Cloud offers a user-friendly solution for editing PDFs without Adobe. It is a free and easy-to-use online PDF editor. Xara Cloud makes PDF editing simple, even for beginners. Here's are the key features:
Edit Document: Easily make changes to text, insert images, add comments, merge files, and more with the straightforward online version.
Convert Document: Effortlessly change your document to different formats such as Microsoft Word, PPT, and JPG.
Image & Branding: Make adjustments to images and incorporate your branding into your documents for a polished look.
Collaborate: Work together by sharing documents with your team. Utilize the comment feature to leave notes and the presentation feature to create slideshows.
Q3. How do I choose the best Google PDF extension for my needs?
When selecting the optimal Google PDF extension, consider the following aspects:
Features: Look for an extension providing the functions you require, like viewing, editing, converting, merging, splitting, compressing, signing, etc.
Ease of Use: Opt for an extension that is easy to install and navigate, with a user-friendly interface and clear instructions.
Compatibility: Ensure the extension is compatible with your Chrome version and operating system.
Optimize PDF Workflows 2024
Having the right tool can significantly impact your experience, and this article aims to assist you in making the right choice for your PDF requirements. While all the mentioned PDF viewers outperform Chrome's built-in PDF viewer, WPS Office stands out with its exceptional PDF extension. When we mention the WPS PDF extension, it's not merely an add-on; it's an integral part of a more comprehensive offering – a seamless office suite. WPS Office provides a user-friendly interface, cross-platform compatibility, and optimal file compatibility. To enjoy these advantages, download WPS Office now and become part of something bigger.
