CNET Editors' review
PrimoPDF converts just about any file type to a PDF, using the print command from the source program the file was created in. In the latest version, the program comes with desktop icon that you can drag and drop files onto for quick conversion, as well as performance improvements and minor changes throughout the program.
Users can now always save PDFs to the same folder, or opt to choose a new folder for each PDF creation. You can also Append or Overwrite an already existing PDF, and more easily create and edit document properties and PDF security from the main PrimoPDF interface. Publisher NitroPDF also claims that the program starts faster, and we did notice that it launched quicker than before--note that this was an empirical judgment, though. Primo's size has been reduced slightly to 7.38MB, and the new drag-and-drop icon also serves as a program launch icon, making it easier to manage the app. The four conversion quality settings have been exposed upfront, too, so you can easily toggle quality settings from Screen to eBook to Print to Prepress. There's a Custom setting, as well.
The conversion process from whatever document is on your screen to PDF is quick and efficient. Other features include a password-protection feature that can be used for restricting reading, editing, or printing the PDF. However, trying to create a PDF while the interface was already open resulted in neither a new PDF nor a warning that there had been a failure. The interface also sports an ad for other PDF-related software made by Nitro that takes up half the interface. Those hitches aside, PrimoPDF is an effective tool for quick and casual PDF creation.
Watch the CNET video review of PrimoPDF:
Publisher's Description
From Nitro PDF Software:
The world's #1 free PDF creator. PrimoPDF a free tool for high-quality conversion to PDF, comprising a user-friendly interface that enables printing to PDF from virtually any Windows application. Additionally, PrimoPDF provides the ability to optimize PDF output for screen, print, ebook, and prepress, secure PDF files with 128-bit encryption, and add document information (e.g. title, author, subject, keywords) to converted PDF files. Full support for 64-bit machines, double byte character and non-TrueType font support, and improved PDF output also available.
What's new in this version: Version 5.1.0.2 includes support for additional languages: French, German, Spanish, Dutch, and Italian.
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All versions:
4.0 starsout of 1,639 votes
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Current version:
3.8 starsout of 144 votes
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My rating:
Write review
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"Not this time"
Version: PrimoPDF 5.1.0.2
Pros
I had this on my old laptop wich was Windows XP. I liked it a lot. I told a lot of people about it. I now have a new laptop with Windows 7
Cons
It appears to have issues and since I installed it my laptop will stop working when it feels like it. Also Nitro seems to be trying to take over. Will be uninstalling. Since I had it before I will probably try to re-install but if I am still having the same issues I will un-install permanently.
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"No problems for me......"
Version: PrimoPDF 5.1.0.2
Pros
It's free and it does the job.
Cons
Haven't noticed any with the newest version. Any glitches I've experienced over the years I've used this product have been addressed in the program updates.
Summary
I have been using PrimoPDF for years. I update the software when updates are available. I recommend PrimoPDF to friends and colleagues and they like it, too.
Frankly, I'm at a loss to explain the negative reviews. -
"it has many problems"
Version: PrimoPDF 5.1.0.2
Pros
the design is very beautiful and equipped with many functions.
Cons
the Japanese version of this program doesn't preserve the original text and distorts it sometimes.
Summary
strictly speaking, you can't guarantee or even predict the outcome when use this product.
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"Great program, u can write/type on TOP of PDF docs"
Version: PrimoPDF 5.1.0.2
Pros
You can type or write on top of PDFs just like you are filling it out, no more need to buy the editing adobe, or print it out, fill it out, and scan it back in. You can even sign a doc, like a doodle function.
Cons
I dont know if this is a trial or free, it is not clear. I got an email saying 50% off to buy now.
Summary
awesome program!
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"super software"
Version: PrimoPDF 5.1.0.2
Pros
Simply works; no fuss, no muss.
I can only image this was a relatively complex piece of software to build, and as its being offered for free let me say I really appreciate it.Cons
none that I could see
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"Not Free Apparently"
Version: PrimoPDF 5.1.0.2
Pros
None for me ..
Cons
Thier website says this is a 14 day TRIAL and then you have to buy
Summary
was looking for a free software and this is NOT free .. a complete waste of precious time for me ..
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"Good software"
Version: PrimoPDF 5.1.0.2
Pros
Obviously cost - does what I need
Cons
None significant
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"Does Not Work!"
Version: PrimoPDF 5.1.0.2
Pros
Good rating by CNET and it worked great initially.
Cons
After some time, this program stopped working and could not create a single pdf. After numerous attempts at restarting, and then finally un-installing and re-installing (more than once), I have officially given up on Primo.
Summary
Look elsewhere for a pdf converter.
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"creates PDF files quickly and easily"
Version: PrimoPDF 5.1.0.2
Pros
It does what I need it to do very quickly.
Cons
Haven't found a downside yet.
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"deeply impressed"
Version: PrimoPDF 5.1.0.2
Pros
I was deeply impressed by its great functions,this app can convert any file type to PDF,and there aren't problems at all since I begin to use it,what's more,it is free,what a wonderful thing~~
Cons
i think it contains too much my computer memory
Summary
it is a good one as a whole,looking forward the new and great features in the next version
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