Split PDF
Cut a PDF into separate files by page ranges, every N pages or one file per page, or extract chosen pages into a new PDF. Download one by one or as a ZIP.
The interactive tool loads here when JavaScript runs.
About this toolWhat is Split PDF?
Split PDF cuts one document into several smaller PDFs. Choose Every N pages for fixed-size parts, By ranges to name each part yourself, Each page for one file per page, or Extract pages to pull a selection into a single new PDF.
A page grid shows a thumbnail of every page with the number of the file it will go into, so you can check the plan before you split. Results download one at a time or together in a ZIP, with names such as report_2_p4-6.pdf (zero-padded when there are ten or more parts) that sort in order.
Pages are copied, not re-rendered, so text and images are identical to the original. The work happens in your browser and the PDF is never uploaded.
- Four modes: every N pages, custom ranges, each page, extract
- Thumbnail grid coloured by output file
- Open ranges such as 8- and page lists joined with +
- Sortable output names with the page range in them
- Download individually or as one ZIP
- Runs entirely in your browser: the PDF is read, edited and saved on your device and is never uploaded to a server.
How to use Split PDF
- Drop a PDF onto the page or try the sample document.
- Pick a mode: Every N pages, By ranges, Each page or Extract pages.
- Enter the number of pages per file, the list of ranges, or the pages to extract. The summary and the coloured page grid update as you type.
- Click Split and check the list of output files and their page ranges.
- Download each file, or Download all to get one ZIP.
Worked examples
Every 3 pages
Input
10-page PDF, Every N pages = 3
Output
4 files: 1-3, 4-6, 7-9, 10
The last part holds whatever is left over, here a single page.
Chapters by range
Input
By ranges: 1-12; 13-30; 31-
Output
Three files, the last running to the final page
Use semicolons or commas between parts; an open range like 31- saves counting pages.
Pull out signed pages
Input
Extract pages: 2, 7, 15-16
Output
One 4-page PDF
Extract keeps the selection together; By ranges with 2+7+15+16 does the same as one part.
Background and insight
Range syntax follows the print dialogs most people know. "1-3" is pages 1 to 3, "8-" runs to the last page, and commas or semicolons separate the parts when splitting by ranges. In this tool a plus sign joins pages into one part, so "1+5+9" makes a single file containing pages 1, 5 and 9 in that order. Ranges that run backwards or past the end are rejected with a message instead of being guessed at.
Each part is a complete, independent PDF, so each carries its own copy of every font and image its pages use. A 10-page report that embeds a 300 KB font split into ten single pages produces ten files that each contain that font, which is why the parts together can be larger than the original. Scanned documents, where each page is mostly its own image, split with almost no overhead.
Splitting cannot decrypt a file. Owner-restricted or password-protected PDFs need to be saved as an unrestricted copy first.
Common use cases
Batch scans
Separate a stack of two-page forms scanned in one go into one PDF per form with Every 2 pages.
Sending only what is needed
Share the two relevant pages of a 60-page contract or statement instead of the whole file.
Upload size limits
Break a long document into parts that fit a portal that caps each upload.
Chapters and handouts
Turn a book or course pack into one file per chapter or session.
Tips and limitations
- The output files can add up to more than the original because each one embeds the fonts and images it needs.
- Bookmarks and links between pages are not copied into the parts; page content and web links are.
- For a single page as an image rather than a PDF, use PDF to JPG instead.
- To reorder or delete pages and keep one file, use Organize PDF Pages.
- Duplicate pages inside one part are allowed with the + syntax, for example 1+1 for two copies of page 1.
Frequently asked questions
How do I split a PDF into single pages?
Choose Each page and click Split. You get one PDF per page, which you can download separately or all at once in a ZIP file.
How do I take just a few pages out of a PDF?
Choose Extract pages and type the pages, for example 2, 5-7. They are saved together as one new PDF and the original is left untouched.
Why are the split files bigger in total than the original?
Every part is a standalone PDF, so fonts and images shared by many pages are stored again in each part. Scans split with little overhead; text documents with embedded fonts show it most.
What does "8-" mean in a page range?
It means page 8 to the last page. Likewise "-3" means pages 1 to 3. Commas separate ranges, and in By ranges mode each range becomes its own file.
Does splitting change the quality of the pages?
No. The pages are copied as PDF objects, so text, vector graphics and images are exactly the same as in the original.
Can I split a PDF that has a password?
No, encrypted files cannot be copied page by page. Open the file with its password, save an unprotected copy and split that.
Is there an in-depth guide to Split PDF?
Yes. “How to Split a PDF by Page Ranges, Every N Pages or Per Page” covers the background, how it works, common pitfalls and worked examples. Read the full guide.
People also search for
- split a pdf into separate files every 2 pages
- extract specific pages from a pdf free
- split pdf into single pages and zip them
- save just one page of a pdf
- split a batch scan into separate documents
- split pdf by page range online
- why are split pdf files bigger than the original
- separate pdf pages without adobe acrobat
Related Tools You May Like
Free, in-browser tools that pair well with this one.