Side by side

MakePDF vs ReportLab

Both stand on pdf creation software. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.

MakePDF

Free plan Web

MakePDF combines browser design tools, local processing, data merge, and bulk generation. Its free tier supports basic operations, while Pro tools and credit plans add paid capabilities.

Visit MakePDF

ReportLab offers both a free PDF-generation library and commercial or hosted options for larger document workflows. Check the PLUS page allowance, licence terms, and support needs against your intended use.

Visit ReportLab

The facts

	MakePDF	ReportLab
Free plan	Yes	Yes
Open source	Not published	Not published
Runs on	Web	API, Linux, Mac, Self-hosted, Web, Windows
Lowest paid plan	Pro PDF Tools — Yearly: $149.99 a year	See the plans
Plans published	6	10
Maker	Not published	Not published
Website	makepdf.org	reportlab.com
On pdf creation software	#18 of 46	#14 of 46

MakePDF: what it does well

Local PDF generation keeps documents on-device
Bulk generation and data merge supported
Runs in browsers and Node.js
Wide form, table, image, and barcode support
Free tools require no signup

What to know first

Initial loading requires an internet connection
Pro features require internet access
Advanced invoice and certificate tools require Pro
Paid plans start at $9.99

ReportLab: what it does well

Open-source core is free for commercial use.
Inputs include XML, CSV, images, and existing PDFs.
Supports data merging and bulk PDF generation.
DocEngine includes validation and access controls.
Listed for Linux, macOS, Windows, web, and self-hosting.

What to know first

Open-source support is community-based.
PLUS licensing is intended for server-side use.
Standard licensing bars embedding for resale.
PLUS charges vary by monthly output-page volume.

Alternatives to MakePDF Alternatives to ReportLab The whole list