# Add Page Numbers to PDF: Arthize vs Smallpdf

_Updated July 2026 · Arthize · https://arthize.com/vs/smallpdf/page-numbers-pdf_

To add page numbers to a PDF, Arthize offers a free, private add page numbers to pdf with no watermark — a focused alternative to Smallpdf. Adding page numbers stamps consistent numbering in the position and format you choose, so a combined or scanned document paginates correctly.

## Arthize's add page numbers to pdf vs Smallpdf

Smallpdf is a popular freemium web-based PDF toolkit. Smallpdf offers a clean set of web tools on a freemium model with usage limits on the free tier.

**Arthize's approach:** Adding page numbers stamps consistent numbering in the position and format you choose, so a combined or scanned document paginates correctly.

- Files are processed inside your private Arthize workspace and deleted after the job — never sold or used to train models.
- The free plan never adds a watermark to your output.
- Transparent pricing: free forever, Pro from $6/mo or $48/yr, and a one-time $149 lifetime option.
- A one-time lifetime option instead of only monthly billing.

## How to add page numbers to a PDF with Arthize

Page numbers can start from any value and sit in any corner.

Numbering is essential after merging documents that lost their pagination.

The numbering is written into the file, not just displayed.

## How to add page numbers to a PDF with Arthize

1. **Open the page-number tool** — Sign in and open the page-number tool.
2. **Add your PDF** — Upload the document to number.
3. **Choose format and position** — Pick the style, starting number and corner.
4. **Download** — Get a paginated PDF.

## FAQ

### Is Arthize a good Smallpdf alternative to add page numbers to a PDF?

Yes. Adding page numbers stamps consistent numbering in the position and format you choose, so a combined or scanned document paginates correctly. Arthize does it free with no watermark and deletes the file after the job. Smallpdf is a well-designed option, especially for occasional one-off conversions.

### How do I add page numbers to a PDF?

Adding page numbers stamps consistent numbering in the position and format you choose, so a combined or scanned document paginates correctly. On Arthize it's free with no watermark and processed privately.

### Can I start numbering from a specific page?

Adding page numbers stamps consistent numbering in the position and format you choose, so a combined or scanned document paginates correctly. On Arthize it's free with no watermark and processed privately.