How to Merge PDFs on Windows 11: A Complete Guide (Free & Easy!)

Why Merge PDFs?

Merging PDF files offers numerous advantages that streamline document management and enhance productivity. One of the primary benefits is the simplification of file sending and sharing. Instead of sending multiple individual files, you can combine them into a single, easily manageable document. This consolidation also makes it easier to compress the file for emailing, especially when dealing with size limitations.

Improved organization is another significant advantage of merging PDFs. By combining related documents, you can create a structured and cohesive file, making it easier to find and access information. Consider scenarios like compiling financial documents for tax season, consolidating receipts for expense reports, or assembling project pages and notes into a single comprehensive file. These examples highlight the practical benefits of merging PDFs in various situations.

Method 1: Using BreezePDF

BreezePDF stands out as an intuitive and efficient solution for merging PDFs, especially given the absence of a built-in feature in Windows 11. With its user-friendly interface and focus on privacy, BreezePDF allows you to merge PDF files directly in your browser, without the need to upload sensitive documents to external servers. It's a completely free tool that prioritizes your data security by keeping your files on your device.

Here's a step-by-step guide on how to merge PDFs using BreezePDF:

1. Upload Files: Start by accessing BreezePDF in your web browser. The intuitive interface allows you to easily upload the PDF files you wish to merge.
2. Arrange the Order: Once the files are uploaded, you can easily arrange them in the desired order by dragging and dropping them within the interface. This ensures that the merged PDF flows logically and meets your specific requirements.
3. Merge the Files: After arranging the files, simply click the "Merge" button. BreezePDF will quickly combine the files into a single PDF document.
4. Saving the Merged PDF: Once the merging process is complete, you can easily download the merged PDF to your computer. The file is saved locally, ensuring your data remains private and secure.

BreezePDF provides a seamless and secure merging experience, making it an ideal solution for anyone looking to efficiently combine PDF files. It allows you to add input boxes to PDFs. The platform is efficient and you also have access to password protection and editing functionalities. Plus it allows you to create fillable PDFs

Method 2: Free Desktop Apps (PDF Merger & Splitter)

Since Windows 11 lacks a native PDF merge feature, third-party desktop applications offer a viable alternative. These apps are installed directly on your computer, allowing you to perform PDF merging tasks offline. However, it's essential to choose reputable applications to ensure the security and privacy of your documents. Let's explore PDF Merger & Splitter (by AnywaySoft) as a representative example.

Here's a guide on how to use PDF Merger & Splitter:

1. Installing the App: Begin by installing PDF Merger & Splitter from the Microsoft Store. The installation process is straightforward and typically completes within a few minutes.
2. Launching the App and Selecting "Merge": Once installed, launch the application and select the "Merge" option from the main menu. This will open the merging interface.
3. Adding PDF Files: Click the "Add" button to import the PDF files you want to merge. You can add multiple files at once, streamlining the process.
4. Reordering Files: Use the "Move Up" and "Move Down" buttons to arrange the files in the desired order. Ensuring the correct order is crucial for a logically organized merged PDF.
5. Previewing Files (Optional): Some apps offer a preview feature, allowing you to view the files before merging them. This can help you confirm that you've added the correct documents and arranged them properly.
6. Merging and Saving the File: Click the "Merge" or "Combine" button to start the merging process. Once complete, save the merged PDF to your desired location on your computer.

Many tools also allow splitting and customization of documents. This functionality is similar to creating a fillable word document which can then be converted.

Method 3: Online PDF Mergers (Adobe Acrobat Online, iLovePDF, Smallpdf)

Online PDF mergers provide a convenient way to combine PDF files without the need to install any software. These tools are accessible through your web browser, allowing you to merge PDFs from anywhere with an internet connection. However, it's crucial to exercise caution when using online PDF mergers, particularly when dealing with confidential files. Always opt for reputable sites with strong security measures to protect your data.

Let's explore how to use Adobe Acrobat Online to merge PDFs:

1. Access the Tool: Navigate to the Adobe Acrobat Online merge tool in your web browser. This will open the merging interface.
2. Upload Files: Upload the PDF files you want to merge by either dragging and dropping them into the designated area or selecting them from your computer.
3. Rearrange File Order: After uploading, rearrange the file order by dragging the thumbnails to their desired positions. This ensures the merged PDF is logically organized.
4. Merge Files: Click the "Merge" or "Combine" button to start the merging process. The tool will combine the files into a single PDF document.
5. Download the Merged File: Once the merging is complete, download the merged PDF to your computer.

Other options like iLovePDF and Smallpdf are available with similar processes. Ensure to download the final document immediately after combining to avoid any chance of deletion from the server.

Method 4: Command Prompt (Ghostscript)

For advanced users, Ghostscript offers a command-line tool for PDF manipulation, including merging. This method requires some technical expertise but provides a powerful and flexible way to combine PDF files. Ghostscript is a free and open-source software suite that can perform various tasks, including converting, merging, and manipulating PDF documents. It also can be used to create fillable forms.

Here are the steps to merge PDFs using Ghostscript:

1. Download and Install Ghostscript: Download and install Ghostscript from its official website. Ensure you download the appropriate version for your operating system.
2. Open Command Prompt as Administrator: Open the Command Prompt as an administrator. This is necessary to ensure you have the required permissions to execute the commands.
3. Navigate to the Directory: Use the `cd` command to navigate to the directory containing the PDF files you want to merge. For example, if your files are in `C:\PDFs`, type `cd C:\PDFs` and press Enter.
4. Execute the Merging Command: Use the following command to merge the PDF files:

   gswin64c -dBATCH -dNOPAUSE -q -sDEVICE=pdfwrite -sOutputFile=Combined.pdf File1.pdf File2.pdf

The parameters used in the command are as follows:

• `dBATCH`: Instructs Ghostscript to process the files in batch mode.
• `dNOPAUSE`: Prevents Ghostscript from pausing after each file is processed.
• `q`: Enables quiet mode, suppressing unnecessary output.
• `sDEVICE=pdfwrite`: Specifies the output device as a PDF writer.

The new file will be located in the directory you navigated to. Although complex, it allows for adding fillable form fields in PDFs

Advanced features (available in BreezePDF)

Beyond basic merging, BreezePDF allows for rearranging pages within the merged document, adding, deleting, and rotating pages. These features are not always available in other free tools, adding an additional level of control to your merged file. When used in conjunction with other features, you can create fillable forms in SharePoint.

Conclusion

Merging PDF files on Windows 11 can be achieved through various methods, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. From user-friendly tools like BreezePDF to command-line utilities like Ghostscript, you have several options to choose from. BreezePDF stands out as a particularly convenient and secure solution, offering an intuitive interface and prioritizing your data privacy. Desktop apps and online mergers also provide viable alternatives, but require careful consideration of security and ease of use.

For users seeking a seamless and private solution to windows 11 merge pdf, BreezePDF offers an excellent choice. Its in-browser functionality and data privacy focus make it an ideal tool for merging sensitive documents. Give BreezePDF a try for your PDF merging needs and experience the convenience and security it provides.