What is PDF Splitting?

PDF splitting is the process of dividing a single PDF file into multiple smaller files. This is useful when you need to extract specific pages, separate chapters, or break down a large document into manageable sections for easier sharing or organization.

Our free PDF splitter tool allows you to split PDF files without uploading them to any server. All processing happens directly in your web browser using advanced JavaScript libraries, ensuring your sensitive documents remain completely private and secure.

Common Use Cases for Splitting PDFs

📄 Extract Specific Pages

Extract individual pages or page ranges from a large PDF document for focused sharing or reference purposes.

📚 Separate Chapters

Split a multi-chapter document into separate files, making it easier to navigate and share individual sections.

📋 Organize Large Documents

Break down large PDF files into smaller, more manageable files for easier storage, emailing, or processing.

📊 Create Separate Files

Split invoices, reports, or forms into individual files for better organization and easier file management.

How to Split PDF Files - Step by Step Guide

1

Select Your PDF File

Click the "Select PDF File" button and choose the PDF file you want to split from your device. The tool supports all standard PDF formats.

2

Choose Split Method

Select how you want to split the PDF: by page range, every N pages, or extract specific pages. You can preview the pages before splitting.

3

Click Split PDF

Click the "Split PDF" button to start the splitting process. The tool will process the file in your browser. You'll see a progress bar showing the split status.

4

Download Split Files

Once the split is complete, download the individual PDF files. You can download them one by one or as a ZIP archive containing all split files.

🔒 Complete Privacy & Security

Unlike traditional PDF splitter tools that require you to upload files to a server, our tool processes everything directly in your browser. This means:

No Uploads: Your files never leave your device
No Server Processing: All PDF operations happen locally in your browser
No Data Storage: We don't store, access, or see your documents
No Tracking: Your file names and content remain completely private
Instant Processing: No waiting for server uploads or downloads

This makes our tool ideal for sensitive documents, confidential business files, personal records, and any situation where privacy is paramount.

Advanced Settings and Best Practices

Split By Page Ranges

Enter flexible inputs like "1-3, 7, 10-12" to extract multiple ranges in one go. The tool will validate overlaps and sort ranges automatically.

Use commas to separate ranges
Use hyphen to define a range (e.g., 5-9)
Spaces are ignored for convenience

Split Every N Pages

Quickly break a large PDF into equal-sized chunks. Ideal for batch processing or email-friendly parts.

Keep Original Metadata

You can choose to keep or clear metadata on split files. For privacy, clearing metadata is recommended.

Export As ZIP

Download all split parts as a single ZIP archive to avoid multiple downloads and preserve ordering.

Technical Notes

PDFDonkey uses client-side libraries like pdf-lib to parse and manipulate documents entirely in your browser. Pages are copied into new PDF instances without any server involvement.

Memory usage is proportional to the number of pages you extract simultaneously.
Large scans may require a few extra seconds due to embedded images.
No fonts or resources are uploaded; everything is handled locally.

Accessibility and Performance

Keyboard-friendly UI for selecting methods and entering ranges.
Progress indicators for long-running operations.
Optimized bundling with Vite for fast first load and responsive interactions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is this PDF splitter tool really free?

Yes, our PDF splitter is completely free to use. There are no hidden fees, no subscription requirements, and no limitations on the number of files you can split.

How many pages can I split at once?

You can split PDFs of any size. The tool has no hard limit on the number of pages, though very large files (200+ MB) may take longer to process.

Will my files be uploaded to a server?

No, absolutely not. All processing happens in your browser using JavaScript. Your files never leave your device, ensuring complete privacy and security.

Can I split password-protected PDFs?

Currently, password-protected PDFs require you to unlock them first before splitting. We're working on adding support for password-protected files in future updates.

Can I extract specific page ranges?

Yes! You can extract specific pages, page ranges (e.g., pages 1-5, 10-15), or split the PDF at every N pages.

Do I need to install any software?

No installation required! This is a web-based tool that works entirely in your browser. Just open the page and start splitting PDFs immediately.

Related PDF Tools

Need more PDF tools? Check out our other free, browser-based PDF utilities:

Split PDF Files Online - Free & Secure