Side by side
gs-batch-pdf vs iText pdfOptimizer
Both stand on pdf compression software. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan LinuxMacWindows
Choose gs-batch-pdf if you want a free command-line utility for parallel PDF batches, with recursive processing and flexible file handling. Look elsewhere if you need an offline desktop app or API access, or cannot install Python 3.12+ and Ghostscript.
Visit gs-batch-pdf Free plan APISelf-hosted
Choose iText pdfOptimizer if you need a Java or .NET add-on for configurable, automated PDF optimization and batch processing. Look elsewhere if your licensing requirements do not fit the commercial prerequisite for Java or the AGPL source disclosure terms.
Visit iText pdfOptimizerThe facts
| gs-batch-pdf | iText pdfOptimizer | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | Linux, Mac, Windows | API, Self-hosted |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | Free or on request |
| Plans published | 1 | 3 |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | github.com | itextpdf.com |
| On pdf compression software | #10 of 39 | #14 of 39 |
gs-batch-pdf: what it does well
- Processes batches in parallel and can search directory trees recursively.
- Offers five Ghostscript compression presets.
- Converts PDFs to PDF/A-1, PDF/A-2, and PDF/A-3.
- Can keep the smaller file or always retain the processed version.
- Supports unattended runs and configurable error handling.
What to know first
- Requires Python 3.12 or later and Ghostscript installed separately.
- PDF/A-2 and PDF/A-3 conversion require Ghostscript 10.04.0 or later.
- Requires command-line use; it is not an offline desktop app.
- No API access.
iText pdfOptimizer: what it does well
- Optimizes PDFs for size or speed.
- Processes multiple PDFs in a batch.
- Supports JPEG, PNG, TIFF, JBIG2, and JPEG2000 images.
- Offers High, Mid, Low, Lossless, and Custom profiles.
- Can reverse an optimization when output size increases.
What to know first
- Java installation requires a commercial iText Core license.
- AGPL licensing requires disclosure of the full application source code.
- Commercial technical support requires a valid support subscription.
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