Apple Files or a dedicated PDF reader?
Compare Apple Files with JustPDF for offline reading, a separate PDF library and organization. Find out when the built-in app is enough.
Start with the app you already have
If you only open the occasional PDF, Apple Files may be enough. It already manages different file types and can preview PDFs. You do not need an extra reader just to open a document.
Choose a separate library when it helps
JustPDF keeps documents in a reading-focused library with folders, tags, pinned documents and an optional library lock. It supports PDF and Markdown files. Choose Import to keep a local copy, or Link from Files to keep using the original location. A linked cloud file may still need its provider and a network connection.
A practical comparison
| Need | Apple Files | JustPDF |
|---|---|---|
| File types | General file manager | PDF and Markdown library |
| Offline access | Download cloud files first | Imported local copies; linked files depend on the source |
| Library | Files and provider folders | Dedicated library, tags and text search |
| Cost | Included with iOS | 3 imports in total free; optional one-time Pro purchase |
Check the editing task, not just the feature name
JustPDF supports markup, on-device OCR for search, and Pro tools for PDF creation and content editing. Results depend on the source PDF and supported objects; OCR can misread text. It is not a camera-based scanner. Keep an original before making changes to important documents.
Use the offline reading checklist before traveling and read how optional iCloud sync handles selected documents.
Start free with 3 PDFs · iOS 18.6+
Get it on the App Store