How to Combine PDF Files in Windows 10

Why Combine PDF Files?

Combining PDF files offers several advantages. Firstly, it streamlines document management by consolidating related information into a single, easily accessible file. This is particularly useful for archiving purposes, where keeping all relevant documents together ensures a complete record. Secondly, it simplifies sharing, as a single file is easier to send and manage than multiple attachments. This reduces the risk of missing documents and ensures recipients have all the necessary information in one place. Ultimately, combining PDFs improves efficiency by reducing clutter and simplifying workflows.

Method 1: Using Breeze PDF (100% Private & Free)

Breeze PDF provides a seamless and private way to combine PDF files directly in your browser. The key advantage of using Breeze PDF is that your documents never leave your device. Everything happens within your browser, ensuring complete privacy and security. There's no need to sign up, download any software, or worry about your sensitive information being stored on a server.

Steps to Combine PDFs with Breeze PDF:

1. Navigate to the Breeze PDF website.
2. Locate the "Merge PDF" feature (often found in the main menu or toolbox).
3. Upload the PDF files you want to combine by dragging and dropping them into the designated area or using the file selection dialog.
4. Arrange the files in the desired order by dragging and dropping them within the interface.
5. Click the "Merge" button to initiate the combining process.
6. Download the merged PDF file to your Windows 10 computer.

Using Breeze PDF is straightforward, ensuring that even users with limited technical skills can easily combine their PDF documents while maintaining complete privacy.

Method 2: Using Adobe Acrobat Pro DC

Adobe Acrobat Pro DC is a powerful, albeit paid, software solution that offers extensive PDF editing and management capabilities, including the ability to combine PDFs. While it provides a comprehensive suite of features, it comes with a subscription cost that may not be suitable for all users. The advantage of Adobe Acrobat Pro DC lies in its robust functionality and integration with other Adobe products. However, for users seeking a free and private solution, Breeze PDF may be a more appealing alternative. Learn how to create fillable PDFs using Adobe following our guide here.

Steps to Combine PDFs with Adobe Acrobat Pro DC:

1. Open Adobe Acrobat Pro DC.
2. Go to "Tools" and select "Combine Files."
3. Click "Add Files" to select the PDF documents you want to merge.
4. Arrange the files in the desired order by dragging and dropping them.
5. Click "Combine" to create the merged PDF.
6. Save the combined PDF file to your desired location.

Method 3: Using Online PDF Mergers

Numerous online PDF merger tools are available, offering a convenient way to combine PDF files without installing any software. However, it’s important to exercise caution when using these tools. Many online mergers require you to upload your PDF files to their servers, which raises privacy concerns. Before using any online tool, carefully review its privacy policy and terms of service to understand how your data is handled. For users prioritizing data privacy, Breeze PDF, which operates entirely on your device, is a safer option. Also, if you need to create fillable PDFs, check out our guide here.

General Steps to Combine PDFs with Online Tools:

1. Visit the website of your chosen online PDF merger.
2. Upload the PDF files you want to combine.
3. Arrange the files in the correct order (if the tool allows).
4. Click the "Merge" or "Combine" button.
5. Download the merged PDF to your computer.

Method 4: Using Microsoft Print to PDF

While not a direct merging tool, Microsoft's built-in Print to PDF feature can be utilized creatively for combining specific content. This method involves opening different documents (e.g., Word, Excel) and "printing" them to a single PDF file. However, it requires careful planning and might not be suitable for all merging scenarios. For instance, if you’re starting with multiple PDFs, other methods are more efficient. If you need to create a fillable PDF from a Word document, consult our article here.

Steps to "Combine" PDFs with Print to PDF:

1. Open the first document you want to include in the merged PDF.
2. Go to "File" > "Print" and select "Microsoft Print to PDF" as your printer.
3. Click "Print" and choose a file name and location for the initial PDF.
4. Open the next document and repeat steps 2 and 3, but this time, choose the same file name as the initial PDF. Windows will prompt you to replace the existing file; confirm this to add the new content. This overwrites the original and is NOT the right approach.
5. This method is primarily useful for converting different file types into a single PDF rather than merging existing PDF files seamlessly.

Note: To properly append, you'd need a PDF editor after the initial "print", adding significant complexity. This method is therefore NOT recommended for combining existing PDFs.

Choosing the Right Method

The best method to combine PDF Windows 10 depends on your specific needs and priorities. If you require a free, private, and easy-to-use solution, Breeze PDF is an excellent choice. If you need advanced editing features and are willing to pay for a subscription, Adobe Acrobat Pro DC is a powerful option. Online PDF mergers offer convenience but raise privacy concerns. Microsoft Print to PDF is limited in its merging capabilities. Evaluate your requirements carefully to select the most suitable method for your workflow.

Simplify PDF Handling with Breeze PDF

Combining PDF files is just one aspect of efficient document management. Breeze PDF offers a range of other features to streamline your PDF workflows. You can add input boxes to PDFs, type directly onto the PDF, sign documents, add images, and even password-protect your files. All these features are available for free, and everything happens securely within your browser. Explore the full range of Breeze PDF capabilities to simplify your PDF handling tasks and enhance your productivity.