PDF Redactly vs iLovePDF
iLovePDF is a well-known online PDF toolkit with a redaction tool and a generous set of free features. As with most browser-based PDF services, your file is uploaded to iLovePDF's servers for processing.
PDF Redactly takes the opposite approach: your document is parsed, scanned, and redacted entirely inside your browser tab, and never uploaded. If the document is sensitive, that distinction matters. Here's how they compare.
Why people switch
iLovePDF sends your file to a server to process it. PDF Redactly has no upload endpoint — the file stays in your browser the entire time.
Instead of selecting every sensitive item manually, PDF Redactly flags 30+ categories for you and lets you review and adjust.
A real free tier with no daily cap, plus a $9.99 one-time lifetime option instead of a subscription.
Where iLovePDF wins: a huge range of PDF tools and a clean interface. If you need an all-purpose online PDF suite and you're comfortable with server-side processing, it's a good option. For private, automatic redaction, PDF Redactly is the focused alternative.
FAQ
Yes — iLovePDF processes files on its servers. PDF Redactly redacts entirely in your browser, with no upload.
PDF Redactly's free tier has no daily limit on redactions and requires no account. Pro ($2.99/mo) and Lifetime ($9.99 once) add industry packs and batch redaction.