Docs to PDF vs PDF24: Privacy
Privacy is an interesting comparison between Docs to PDF and PDF24 because PDF24's desktop app actually offers strong local processing. For Google Docs users specifically, though, comparing privacy means looking at what happens to your file during conversion.
Docs to PDF and Google's infrastructure
Docs to PDF processes all conversions through Google's export API. Your document content stays within Google's infrastructure. The extension itself never sees the content of your files; it only passes the file ID and export format request to Google's API.
PDF24 web tool privacy
The PDF24 web tool uploads files to PDF24's servers for processing. PDF24 states that files are automatically deleted after one hour. The company is Germany-based and GDPR-compliant, which provides a solid legal framework around data handling. For most documents, this is acceptable. For highly sensitive documents, uploading to any external server adds risk.
PDF24 desktop app privacy
PDF24's desktop app processes files locally on your own computer without uploading anything. This is genuinely more private than any web-based tool for non-Google files. However, if your source is a Google Doc, you still need internet to export from Google, and you would be converting a downloaded copy rather than the live file.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does PDF24 share uploaded files with anyone?
No. PDF24's privacy policy states that it does not access the content of uploaded files for commercial purposes and that files are deleted automatically after processing.
Which is more private for sensitive Google Docs?
Docs to PDF keeps the conversion within Google's own servers, which makes it the more private option for Google Docs specifically. PDF24's desktop app is private for local files but requires an extra download step for Google Docs.
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