The main difference between Sumatra PDF and CutePDF lies in their basic functionality. Sumatra PDF is a lightweight, open-source PDF reader. On the other hand, CutePDF is a virtual PDF printer for creating PDFs from other documents.
In this article, we will explore the other major differences between Sumatra PDF vs. CutePDF.
Sumatra PDF vs. CutePDF Comparison
| Platforms Supported | Cloud Storage | Integrations | Custom Branding | Pricing |
Sumatra PDF | Windows | No | N/A (Latex Editors needed) | No | Free |
CutePDF | Windows SaaS/Web | Yes | Dropbox, Microsoft Outlook and Thunderbird | Yes | Starts at $49.95 per month |
Key Integrations
Sumatra PDF utilizes LaTeX, a typesetting system that generates PDF documents from LaTeX source files. LaTeX users can use it to open and view these generated PDFs. Many LaTeX editors allow you to configure Sumatra PDF as the default PDF viewer to make the workflow more seamless.
You can use CutePDF as a virtual printer to create or edit PDFs from documents, emails, and attachments. Then, you can manually save or sync them to your Dropbox, Microsoft Outlook, or Thunderbird. This will enable PDF creation and management.
Printing Capabilities
Sumatra PDF’s printing capabilities are limited to printing the currently viewed PDF document. You can send the PDF to your physical or virtual printers.
On the other hand, CutePDF essentially “prints” a document to a PDF file. When you choose the CutePDF printer, it generates a PDF version of the document you want to save. This can be particularly useful for creating PDFs from files that do not have a built-in “Save as PDF” option.
Document Management
Sumatra PDF lacks document management capabilities. It primarily focuses on providing users with a simple and straightforward tool for viewing PDF documents. Advanced features typically found in full-fledged PDF software are missing here.
With CutePDF, you can create, edit, convert, scan, rearrange, and preview documents from a centralized platform. It offers several advanced features such as the ability to add watermarks, and create hierarchical bookmarks. You can also apply photo stamps and insert headers and footers into documents. Additionally, CutePDF provides a typewriter tool that allows users to add text to PDF files.
Supported File Formats
Sumatra PDF supports formats such as ePub, Mobi, XPS, CBZ, and CBR. It provides a fast and efficient reading experience for these file types.
CutePDF, on the other hand, allows users to create PDF files from various document types, including text documents, images, web pages, and Microsoft Office files.
Developer API
The Sumatra API is a REST interface that accepts JSON events from your application and provides real-time responses as enriched events. It uses topologies defined in Scowl, a low-code language. You can access client- and server-side SDKs for popular frameworks to integrate and interact with Sumatra PDF.
CutePDF provides a COM (Component Object Model) interface that allows you to control it from your application or script. You can manage various tasks for a print job and specify the destination where it should be saved. You can also merge it with other print jobs using this API.
Limitations
Sumatra PDF is a lightweight and quick PDF reader primarily designed for Windows users. It notably lacks advanced editing and annotation features, and it doesn’t support OCR. It’s a minimalistic PDF viewer with a focus on simplicity and speed.
The key limitations of CutePDF include its lack of OCR functionality and its limited platform support (primarily for Windows). If you require comprehensive PDF editing features, you will need to use a comprehensive PDF software like Fill.
Fill: The Best Alternative to Sumatra PDF
Fill serves as the best alternative to CutePDF and Sumatra PDF. It offers a broad range of features to enhance your document management and workflow. With Fill, you gain access to mobile apps for both Android and iOS devices. These ensure you can work with documents on the go.
Fill’s robust document management feature also stands out as a significant advantage over Sumatra PDF. While Sumatra PDF excels at efficiently viewing and reading PDFs, it lacks the advanced document management capabilities that Fill offers.
Moreover, Fill supports all document types, not limiting you to just PDFs. It also provides the convenience of creating and sending reusable templates. Additionally, Fill prioritizes security with encrypted and secure document storage.
Fill also integrates with third-party apps and services and offers unlimited document storage. This makes it an ideal solution for individuals and businesses that require versatility and scalability in their document management.
Try Fill for a smarter way to work. Sign up for a free account today.
