Side by side
MuPDF vs StarForce Reader
Both stand on pdf readers. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan AndroidiPhoneLinux+4
MuPDF covers many document operations and offers developer bindings for several environments. Its licensing terms are a key consideration, particularly for server-based use or embedding in a product.
Visit MuPDF Free plan AndroidiPhoneLinux+2
StarForce Reader covers ordinary and protected document formats across a range of platforms. Protected-document activation, printing, and transfer depend on the stated restrictions.
Visit StarForce ReaderThe facts
| MuPDF | StarForce Reader | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | Android, iPhone, Linux, Mac, Self-hosted, Web, Windows | Android, iPhone, Linux, Mac, Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | Commercial: $299 a month | Free or on request |
| Plans published | 5 | 1 |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | mupdf.com | star-force.com |
| On pdf readers | #11 of 24 | #15 of 24 |
MuPDF: what it does well
- Supports a wide range of document operations
- Offers multiple developer bindings
- Commercial licenses include technical support and free upgrades
- Cross-platform availability is listed
- Open-source users can seek help through Discord and the bug tracker
What to know first
- OCR support is listed as none
- Server-based AGPL use requires source disclosure
- Embedding in a product may require a commercial license
- Commercial plan costs $299 a month
StarForce Reader: what it does well
- Free viewer for PDF, EPUB, SFPDF, and PCDOC.
- Mobile app can play protected videos.
- Available for Windows, Linux, RED OS, macOS, Android, and iOS.
- Tabs, searches, and saved reading position.
What to know first
- Protected-document printing depends on publisher permission.
- Activation transfer may be disabled.
- Android uninstall removes the protected-document license.
Alternatives to MuPDF Alternatives to StarForce Reader The whole list