Docs to PDF vs Smallpdf: Speed
Speed is one of the most noticeable differences between Docs to PDF and Smallpdf for Google Docs users. Docs to PDF eliminates the upload step entirely because it calls Google's API directly. Smallpdf requires uploading the file to its servers before conversion can begin.
The upload bottleneck
Every web-based PDF converter is only as fast as your upload speed. A 5MB Google Doc needs to travel from your computer to Smallpdf's servers before conversion begins. On a slow connection, that alone can take ten to thirty seconds. Docs to PDF skips this entirely because the file is already on Google's servers.
Workflow steps comparison
With Smallpdf: export the file from Google, go to smallpdf.com, upload it, wait for conversion, download the PDF. That is five steps. With Docs to PDF: click the extension icon. That is one step. For a single file, the difference might be two minutes. For ten files repeated every week, the savings add up.
When Smallpdf is fast enough
If you have a fast internet connection and are doing an occasional one-off conversion, Smallpdf is plenty fast. It also has a well-optimized interface that processes files quickly once uploaded. The speed advantage of Docs to PDF is most pronounced in bulk conversions and for users on slower connections.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does Smallpdf take to convert a Google Doc?
The conversion itself is fast, usually a few seconds. The total time including export from Google, upload to Smallpdf, and download back is typically 30 to 90 seconds depending on file size and connection speed.
Does Docs to PDF always convert faster than Smallpdf?
For Google Docs specifically, yes, because there is no upload step. For converting non-Google files, Smallpdf may be faster since Docs to PDF does not handle those at all.
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