Compare PDFCreator vs. Perfect PDF

PDFCreator automates document output in Windows-based business environments, covering the whole creation pipeline from conversion to delivery. It converts print output from any application into PDF, JPG, PNG, or TIF via a virtual printer, so existing workflows don’t need to change. Businesses use PDFCreator to streamline repetitive document tasks: output is captured, formatted, named, secured, and routed according to configurable profiles. Typical use cases include automated report generation, batch processing of large document sets, and compliant document delivery in regulated industries. Key capabilities include encryption, password protection, digital signatures, watermarking, MSI-based deployment, Group Policy support, and centralized profile management. It works with Word, Excel, browsers, ERP platforms, and essentially any Windows application that can print. PDFCreator is available as a free edition for individual, non‑commercial use, alongside three paid editions tailored to business, terminal server, and broader enterprise deployments.

Perfect PDF® 12 serves as a powerful family of software tools for handling PDF documents efficiently. The software features a redesigned user interface that draws inspiration from Microsoft Office, enhancing user experience. Users can opt for complete editions—such as Office, Premium, or Business Edition—or choose to purchase only specific features tailored to their needs. It allows for the creation of PDFs through a virtual printer from various sources, including text, images, HTML files, and Outlook emails, as well as from Word, Excel, and PowerPoint documents. Additionally, it offers functionalities for using or modifying predefined layouts, merging and splitting PDFs, and designing pages with elements like letterheads, backgrounds, headers, footers, and watermarks. Users can also optimize their PDFs, manage visible layers, adjust color spaces, and compress images while replacing non-embedded fonts as needed. The software includes a form field designer that lets users create, design, and modify PDF forms, incorporating features such as text boxes, combo boxes, radio buttons, and lists for comprehensive form management. With its extensive capabilities, Perfect PDF® 12 is ideal for both personal and professional use, making PDF processing straightforward and efficient. With the “Perfect E-Rechnung” edition, you can create and process electronic invoices quickly and conveniently. The included function for visualizing the content of the invoice allows you to check it visually directly before the invoice is sent out after entering the data, and before it is saved in machine-readable XML format. On the other hand, you can display and save incoming XML invoices in human-readable form. You can also convert existing electronic invoices into a different format.