Merge Multiple PDFs into a Single File for Free

How to Merge PDF Files Using Google Chrome

You can now manage your documentation right from your Chrome browser. 

This can easily be done through the usage of extensions, which can be easily installed from the Chrome Web Store. The installation process takes minimal time, while giving you maximum results. Start by finding the Alto Merge extension via the search field by typing in “alto pdf”. Open the needed solution and click Add to Chrome.

In a minute, it will be added to your browser’s upper toolbar. Next, follow the step-by-step instructions given below:

1. Click on the Alto extension logo and the pop-up window will appear. 
2. Submit the Choose a file button and add the PDF from your device’s inner memory or Google Drive.
3. Select the documents you want to combine. 
4. Merge the PDFs using the corresponding button.
5. Save the file to internal or cloud storage.

All uploaded documents are deleted when the operation is completed or when you reload the extension. The solution does not save files automatically since you need to specify the storage and folder for saving.

AltoMergePDF is a web-based solution that works in your browser, which means you do not need to install any software to your device or search for another online-solution. The needed option is always available in one click. 

How to Merge PDF Files in Windows

You can insert a file in PDF format into your Office file as an attachment and resize the object. However, this does not necessarily mean you can edit it. To accomplish more complex tasks, you need to install additional software. To merge PDF documents on Windows, you will need to have Adobe Acrobat or Adobe Reader installed. You can download and install the Adobe Acrobat DC free trial. Then upload the PDF documents you want to merge to the app and choose the merging tools. 

1. Download and install the Adobe Acrobat DC free trial.
2. Once installed, open the app and select the Tools tab in the top left-hand corner.
3. Click the Combine Files button. Then choose the blue Add Files button and choose the PDF documents you want to combine.

The latest Windows versions let you view PDF files in the Edge browser. However, this doesn't let you edit them. With Adobe Reader installed, you’ll have more options. For instance, you can specify a page range or add watermarks or bookmarks. However, the set of tools available within the app depends on the plan you choose. On the other hand, it’s much easier to merge documents with an online combiner that runs on any browser available for Windows, especially if it’s cheaper or even free.

How to Merge PDF Files With Preview on Mac

Preview is one of the programs installed by default on Mac. This app works as a standard viewer. But at the same time, it allows you to perform editing with a document. For example, Preview allows you to mark up images with arrows and boxes, add your signature to a document or combine different files into a single PDF. With this program, you can easily merge two or more source files. Note, that Preview opens your files as a default program and you can merge docs with it. 

1. Open the PDFs you want to merge in Preview.
2. Click on View. Then select Thumbnails in the sidebar.
3. To determine where to insert another document, select a page thumbnail.
4. Click Edit. Then select Insert Page from File. Specify the document you want to add, and then click Open.
5. To save the result, select File Export as PDF.

In case you have installed third-party software, Preview may not open your PDFs when you double click on them. Open Preview by right-clicking on the documents and use the Open With option and then Preview. There is also the option to merge part of a document with another one. Just drag the selected thumbnails into the sidebar of the other PDF and choose where you want them to appear. In case your computer is on Mac OS Sierra or earlier, drag the thumbnails directly onto a thumbnail in the other PDF. 

How to Merge PDF Files With Adobe Acrobat Reader

Adobe Acrobat Reader is an application from the Adobe family. This software requires downloading and installation. However, Adobe Reader works with Adobe Document Cloud, so you can save and merge your PDFs within several different devices using an internet connection. 

This app allows you to merge different types of content, including spreadsheets, web pages or videos, into a single PDF. You can work with Acrobat Reader through your iPad, iPhone or Android device. Tools that give you the option to reorder, delete or rotate PDFs are also available. 

1. Within the app, click on the Tools menu and choose Combine Files.
2. Select Combine Files, and then click on the Add Files button to select the templates you want to include in your PDF.
3. Click, drag, and drop to record the samples and pages. Double-click on a file to expand and rearrange individual pages. Press the Delete key to remove unwanted content.
4. When finished arranging samples, click Combine Files.
5. Click the Save button.

You can organize pages by dragging and dropping their thumbnails. Even if you change your mind after your documents are merged, you can still rearrange the pages of a single PDF file. There are also editing tools available. For instance, you can add bookmarks, headers, page numbers or guide someone through your PDF document. Pages can be customized with backgrounds and watermarks. To use these features, choose one of the Acrobat DC plans.