The 5 C# PDF Libraries Every Developer Mostly Use

C# is a powerful programming language, widely used for software development across various domains....

C# is a powerful programming language, widely used for software development across various domains. One crucial aspect of application development is dealing with PDFs, whether it's generating PDFs, extracting information from existing PDF documents, or manipulating PDF files.

In this article, we'll explore five C# PDF generating libraries that every developer mostly use and familiar with, with a special focus on IronPDF, a comprehensive PDF solution.

Introduction to C# PDF Libraries

C# developers often encounter the need to work with PDFs (Portable Document Format) due to their widespread use in document management. PDF libraries play a vital role in simplifying tasks related to PDF generation, manipulation, extraction and to even convert PDF documents to different format.

1. PdfSharp

PdfSharp is an open-source PDF library for C# that has gained popularity for its simplicity and ease of use. It provides developers with the tools to create and manipulate PDF documents effortlessly. PdfSharp is an excellent choice for projects where a straightforward and lightweight PDF solution is needed.

Features

• Simplicity:PdfSharp is known for its simple and easy-to-use API, making it accessible for developers of all levels.
• Ease of Use:Developers can quickly generate and manipulate PDFs with PdfSharp's intuitive interface.
• Cross-Platform Support:Limited cross-platform support; primarily designed for Windows.
• Performance:Generally lightweight and suitable for basic tasks; may have performance limitations for complex operations.

Usage Scenarios

• Simple Document Generation:PdfSharp is ideal for scenarios where basic PDF creation is required without complex features.
• Educational Projects:Developers working on educational or learning applications can benefit from PdfSharp's simplicity.

When to Choose PdfSharp?

Choose PdfSharp if:

• You prioritize simplicity and ease of use.
• Your project requires basic PDF generation and manipulation.

2. iTextSharp

iTextSharp now known as iText Core, is a widely-used PDF library for C# that offers both open-source and commercial versions. It provides a comprehensive set of features for creating, manipulating, and extracting data from PDF documents. iTextSharp is suitable for projects that demand advanced PDF functionalities.

Features

• PDF Manipulation:iTextSharp excels in advanced PDF manipulation, allowing developers to create complex documents.
• Versatility:It supports a wide range of PDF-related tasks, from document creation to text extraction.
• Cross-Platform Support:Supports various platforms, including Windows, Linux, and macOS.
• Performance:Known for good performance, especially in handling complex PDF operations.

Usage Scenarios

• Complex Document Generation:iTextSharp is the go-to choice for projects requiring intricate PDF layouts and structures.
• Data Extraction:Developers dealing with data extraction from PDFs can benefit from iTextSharp's capabilities.

When to Choose iTextSharp?

Choose iTextSharp if:

• Your project requires advanced PDF features and manipulation.
• You are comfortable with both open-source and commercial licensing options.

3. Pdfium

Pdfium is not a traditional PDF library but rather a PDF rendering engine with C# bindings. It allows developers to render PDFs and extract text or images from them. While Pdfium is more focused on rendering, it serves as a valuable tool for projects with specific rendering needs.

Features

• PDF Rendering:Pdfium excels in rendering PDFs accurately, making it suitable for applications where visual fidelity is crucial.
• Text and Image Extraction:Developers can extract text and images from PDF documents using Pdfium.
• Cross-Platform Support:Offers cross-platform support; can be used in Windows, Linux, and macOS applications.
• Performance:Primarily focused on rendering, providing good performance for visual-intensive applications.

Usage Scenarios

• Visual Intensive Applications:Pdfium is ideal for applications where the accurate rendering of PDFs is a priority.
• Text or Image Extraction Projects:Developers focusing on extracting specific content from PDFs can leverage Pdfium.

When to Choose Pdfium?

Choose Pdfium if:

• Your project requires precise PDF rendering.
• You need to extract text or images from PDF documents.

4. Syncfusion PDF

Syncfusion provides a robust PDF library for C# that stands out for its extensive feature set and flexibility. Syncfusion's PDF library enables developers to create, modify, and extract content from PDF documents seamlessly.

Features

• Rich Feature Set:Syncfusion PDF offers a comprehensive set of features, including PDF creation, manipulation, and text extraction.
• Flexibility:Developers can customize PDF documents with ease, thanks to Syncfusion's flexible API.
• Cross-Platform Support:Provides cross-platform support, allowing developers to target Windows, Linux, and macOS.
• Performance:Known for good performance, especially for extensive PDF operations and customization.

Usage Scenarios

• Extensive PDF Operations:Syncfusion is suitable for projects requiring a broad range of PDF-related tasks.
• Customization:Developers who need to create highly customized PDF documents will find Syncfusion's flexibility valuable.

When to Choose Syncfusion PDF?

Choose Syncfusion PDF if:

• You need an extensive feature set for PDF operations.
• Your project requires a high level of customization in PDF document creation.
• Cross-platform support is essential for your application

5. IronPDF - Your Comprehensive PDF Solution

IronPDF stands out as a comprehensive and versatile C# .NET PDF library designed to elevate your PDF file management experience. With a user-friendly API, IronPDF prioritizes accuracy, ease of use, and cross-platform support. It is available for all .NET Framework versions, making it a first choice when it comes to C# application development with PDF generation capabilities. You can download the software directly from here .

IronPDF stands out as a comprehensive and versatile C# PDF library, offering a seamless experience for developers. With a well-documented example code page , IronPDF eliminates the learning curve, enabling developers to kickstart their PDF-related tasks effortlessly. The given code examples are usually just a few lines to perform PDF operations, making it simple and easy to integrate without knowing its complexities. Whether you are a seasoned developer or a newcomer, the intuitive API and detailed documentation streamline the integration process, ensuring that you can quickly grasp the library's functionality.

Here's a quick example code on how to generate pdf documents from HTML string, files and URL in C# using IronPDF:

using IronPdf;

// Instantiate Renderer
var renderer = new ChromePdfRenderer();

// Create a PDF from an existing HTML file using C#
var htmlFile_to_pdf = renderer.RenderHtmlFileAsPdf("example.html");

// Create a PDF from a HTML string using C#
var htmlString_to_pdf = renderer.RenderHtmlAsPdf("

<h1>Hello World</h1>

");

// Create a PDF from a URL or local file path
var url_to_pdf = renderer.RenderUrlAsPdf("https://ironpdf.com/");

// Export to a file or Stream
htmlFile_to_pdf.SaveAs("htmlFile.pdf");
url_to_pdf.SaveAs("url.pdf");
htmlString_to_pdf.SaveAs("htmlString.pdf");

Let's take a dig at the complexities of IronPDF and explore its standout features that position it as a vital C# .NET library for developers working on a wide array of PDF operations like modify PDF files or generate PDF documents from HTML .

IronPDF Features

• Ease of Use:IronPDF provides a simple and intuitive API for common PDF operations, streamlining the workflow for developers.
• Powerful Features:IronPDF supports a comprehensive set of PDF features. Whether its to create PDF documents, manipulate PDF files and PDF forms, encrypt/decrypt or apply digital signatures, IronPDF covers all. It also helps to convert HTML to PDF documents with page customizing options.
• Performance:IronPDF is highly optimized, delivering efficient PDF generation and manipulation speeds, ensuring optimal user experiences.
• Cross-Platform Compatibility:IronPDF is compatible with various operating systems and environments, including Windows, Linux, Mac, iOS, Android, Docker, Azure, and AWS.
• Integration:IronPDF seamlessly integrates with popular IDEs like Microsoft Visual Studio and other .NET libraries, enhancing its appeal for developers working within established ecosystems.

Usage Scenarios

• Versatile PDF Operations:IronPDF is suitable for a wide array of PDF operations, from basic document creation to advanced features like encryption and digital signatures.
• Cross-Platform Development:Developers working on diverse platforms, including web, mobile, desktop, or console applications, can seamlessly integrate IronPDF into their projects.
• Performance-Critical Applications:IronPDF's optimized performance makes it suitable for applications where speed is crucial.

When to Choose IronPDF?

Choose IronPDF if:

• You require a comprehensive and powerful PDF solution with advanced features.
• You value ease of use with an intuitive API.
• You need cross-platform compatibility for diverse environments.
• You want performance, with efficient PDF generation and manipulation speeds.
• You work with complex projects demanding features like encryption, digital signatures, and versatile PDF operations.
• You prefer seamless integration with popular IDEs and .NET libraries.

Comparison of Key Features Between C# PDF Libraries

Each C# PDF library discussed in this article brings unique strengths to the table. However, for developers seeking a comprehensive and powerful solution, IronPDF emerges as a compelling choice. Consider your project's specific needs, and choose the PDF library that aligns with your development goals. You download the IronPDF package from here and start using it with a free-trial to explore its full potential in commercial mode.