Convert vs Zamzar
Zamzar has converted files since 2006 and still works well for many people. This page sets out, plainly, where we do things differently. Details about Zamzar come from their own website as of October 2026.
| Convert | Zamzar | |
|---|---|---|
| Free file size | 200 MB on our server, unlimited for on-device conversions | "50 MB", but 1–5 MB on most document conversions |
| Free conversions a day | Unlimited on device, 25 on our server | 2 conversions and 2 compressions |
| When you find out about limits | Before you upload | Often after uploading, when you try to download |
| Files leave your device | Not for images, PDF to images and most audio | Always, even in their desktop app |
| Scanned PDF to editable Word | Yes, with OCR | No (OCR to TXT only) |
| Bank statement PDF to Excel | Yes | Yes |
| Transcription | Free, up to 30 min per file | Yes |
| API for AI agents (MCP) | Yes | No |
| Files kept | 60 minutes | 24 hours |
Where Zamzar is stronger today: email-to-convert, CAD and 3D formats, a desktop app, and paid plans with large online storage.