ActivePDF vs IronPDF: HTML to PDF Tutorial and Comprehensive Comparison

How do IronPDF and ActivePDF compare for PDF generation in .NET?

When developers need robust PDF generation capabilities in their .NET applications, two prominent solutions often emerge: IronPDF and ActivePDF. Both libraries offer powerful features for creating, converting, and manipulating PDF documents, but they differ significantly in their approach, pricing, and implementation complexity.

IronPDF stands out with its intuitive API design and comprehensive HTML-to-PDF conversion using a Chrome rendering engine, while ActivePDF provides enterprise-focused solutions through multiple specialized components like WebGrabber for HTML conversion and DocConverter for document transformation. This article provides an in-depth comparison to help you make an informed decision for your PDF processing needs.

Compare IronPDF to ActivePDF Components

• Get the IronPDF C# PDF Library
• Compare IronPDF and ActivePDF Features
• Compare code for URL to PDF
• Compare code for HTML string to PDF
• Compare licensing, free software options, and more

Overview

About the IronPDF C# Library

Iron Software is a market-leading component provider offering IronPDF for comprehensive PDF manipulation. IronPDF provides an all-inclusive solution for generating PDF files from various formats while offering complete programmatic control over document properties. Developers favor IronPDF for its consistent, reliable output and intuitive API that requires minimal code.

IronPDF supports C#, VB.NET, ASP.NET, MVC, .NET Core, .NET 9, and .NET 10. It runs seamlessly on Windows, Linux, macOS, Docker, Azure, AWS, and other cloud platforms.

About ActivePDF Components

ActivePDF (now part of Apryse) provides enterprise-focused PDF solutions through multiple specialized components. Unlike IronPDF's unified approach, ActivePDF offers separate products for different PDF tasks:

ActivePDF WebGrabber for HTML to PDF Conversion

ActivePDF WebGrabber is specifically designed to convert HTML sources (URLs, HTML files, or HTML strings) to PDF format. It provides configuration options for page properties including headers, footers, margins, watermarks, and bookmarks. WebGrabber supports both Native and Internet Explorer rendering engines.

ActivePDF DocConverter for Document Transformation

ActivePDF DocConverter handles conversion of over 300 file formats to PDF, including Microsoft Office documents, images, CAD files, and more. It features watched folder automation, batch processing capabilities, and enterprise-grade document management features.

Why do developers choose IronPDF over ActivePDF?

IronPDF's rendering speed completes HTML-to-PDF conversion in 835 milliseconds for static sites, offering consistent performance across different content types. The library's memory usage has been optimized to use less than 10MB typically, with 75% reduction in memory usage when rendering headers and footers.

Developers appreciate IronPDF's straightforward API design that enables PDF generation with just three lines of code, compared to ActivePDF's more complex multi-step process. The comprehensive documentation includes over 100 code examples and detailed tutorials, making it easier for teams to get started quickly.

When might ActivePDF be the better choice?

ActivePDF excels in enterprise environments requiring:

• Automated batch processing with watched folders
• Support for 300+ file format conversions (via DocConverter)
• Legacy system integration on Windows Server
• Advanced form field manipulation and XFA form support
• Multiple PDF/A compliance levels for archival requirements

Organizations with existing ActivePDF infrastructure or specific enterprise workflow requirements may find ActivePDF's modular approach beneficial, despite the higher cost and complexity.

Comparison

1. ActivePDF vs IronPDF Feature Comparison

Which library offers better HTML to PDF conversion capabilities?

IronPDF uses a full Chrome V8 rendering engine, providing 98%+ browser fidelity with complete support for HTML5, CSS3, JavaScript, and web fonts. ActivePDF WebGrabber offers both Native and Internet Explorer engines, but with limited JavaScript execution and CSS3 support.

How do the libraries compare for document format support?

While IronPDF focuses on common formats (HTML, DOCX, Images, RTF, Markdown), ActivePDF DocConverter supports over 300 file formats including CAD files, legacy document formats, and specialized enterprise formats. This makes ActivePDF more suitable for organizations dealing with diverse document types.

What about PDF manipulation features?

Both libraries offer comprehensive PDF manipulation capabilities:

IronPDF provides:

• Built-in watermarking with HTML/CSS styling
• Simple API for headers/footers with predefined merge fields
• One-line methods for common tasks
• Integrated form creation and filling
• Digital signatures with visual representation

ActivePDF offers:

• Advanced form field manipulation (through Toolkit)
• More granular control over PDF internals
• Enterprise-grade redaction capabilities
• Multiple PDF/A compliance levels
• Specialized components for specific tasks

Step 1: Installation

2. How to Install IronPDF

Which installation method should I use for IronPDF?

You can install IronPDF through multiple methods, with NuGet Package Manager being the most convenient:

NuGet Package Manager

Open the NuGet Package Manager in Visual Studio and search for IronPDF:

:InstallCmd

:InstallCmd

Download IronPDF.dll manually

Alternatively, download IronPDF.dll and add its reference to your project.

Once installed, verify access by adding:

using IronPdf;

using IronPdf;

Imports IronPdf

IronPDF supports .NET 9 and 10, along with all modern .NET versions including Core, Standard, and Framework 4.6.2+.

How to Install ActivePDF Components

How do I install ActivePDF WebGrabber?

ActivePDF WebGrabber requires a more complex installation process:

1. Download the installer from the ActivePDF website
2. Request a license key from ActivePDF sales (evaluation keys available)
3. Run the installer with administrator privileges
4. Configure the WebGrabber service during installation
5. For Windows Server 2012+, create a dedicated user account for the service

After installation, add the WebGrabber reference from: C:\Program Files\ActivePDF\WebGrabber\bin\APWebGrabber.Net45.dll

How do I install ActivePDF DocConverter?

DocConverter follows a similar installation pattern:

1. Download the DocConverter installer
2. Install with administrator rights
3. Configure watched folders if using drag-and-drop conversion
4. Set up the Configuration Manager for batch processing

Note: ActivePDF components require Windows Server and don't support cross-platform deployment like IronPDF.

How to Tutorials

3. Convert HTML String to PDF File

Let's compare how both libraries handle a common task: converting an HTML string to a PDF file.

3.1. HTML String with IronPDF

/**
 * HTML String to PDF
 * anchor-html-string-with-ironpdf
 **/
using IronPdf;

static void Main(string[] args)
{
    // Create rendering converter
    var renderer = new ChromePdfRenderer();

    // HTML Source
    string html = "<h1>Hello World!</h1> <h2>Welcome to IronPDF</h2> ";

    // Convert HTML string to PDF file
    var pdf = renderer.RenderHtmlAsPdf(html);

    // Save the file
    pdf.SaveAs("E:/sample.pdf");
}

/**
 * HTML String to PDF
 * anchor-html-string-with-ironpdf
 **/
using IronPdf;

static void Main(string[] args)
{
    // Create rendering converter
    var renderer = new ChromePdfRenderer();

    // HTML Source
    string html = "<h1>Hello World!</h1> <h2>Welcome to IronPDF</h2> ";

    // Convert HTML string to PDF file
    var pdf = renderer.RenderHtmlAsPdf(html);

    // Save the file
    pdf.SaveAs("E:/sample.pdf");
}

'''
''' * HTML String to PDF
''' * anchor-html-string-with-ironpdf
''' *
Imports IronPdf

Shared Sub Main(ByVal args() As String)
	' Create rendering converter
	Dim renderer = New ChromePdfRenderer()

	' HTML Source
	Dim html As String = "<h1>Hello World!</h1> <h2>Welcome to IronPDF</h2> "

	' Convert HTML string to PDF file
	Dim pdf = renderer.RenderHtmlAsPdf(html)

	' Save the file
	pdf.SaveAs("E:/sample.pdf")
End Sub

Key advantages of IronPDF's approach:

• Only 3 lines of code for the conversion
• Automatic handling of encoding and rendering
• Built-in Chrome engine ensures accurate rendering
• No need for separate file path and name configuration

3.2. HTML String with ActivePDF WebGrabber

using APWebGrabber;

static void Main(string[] args)
{
    // Instantiate Object
    WebGrabber wg = new WebGrabber();

    // HTML Source
    string html = "<h1>Hello World!</h1> <h2>Welcome to ActivePDF WebGrabber</h2>";

    // Assign source HTML to WebGrabber
    wg.CreateFromHTMLText = html;

    // Specify file directory
    wg.OutputDirectory = "E:/";

    // File name
    wg.NewDocumentName = "sample.pdf";

    // Convert source HTML to PDF file
    wg.ConvertToPDF();
}

using APWebGrabber;

static void Main(string[] args)
{
    // Instantiate Object
    WebGrabber wg = new WebGrabber();

    // HTML Source
    string html = "<h1>Hello World!</h1> <h2>Welcome to ActivePDF WebGrabber</h2>";

    // Assign source HTML to WebGrabber
    wg.CreateFromHTMLText = html;

    // Specify file directory
    wg.OutputDirectory = "E:/";

    // File name
    wg.NewDocumentName = "sample.pdf";

    // Convert source HTML to PDF file
    wg.ConvertToPDF();
}

Imports APWebGrabber

Shared Sub Main(ByVal args() As String)
	' Instantiate Object
	Dim wg As New WebGrabber()

	' HTML Source
	Dim html As String = "<h1>Hello World!</h1> <h2>Welcome to ActivePDF WebGrabber</h2>"

	' Assign source HTML to WebGrabber
	wg.CreateFromHTMLText = html

	' Specify file directory
	wg.OutputDirectory = "E:/"

	' File name
	wg.NewDocumentName = "sample.pdf"

	' Convert source HTML to PDF file
	wg.ConvertToPDF()
End Sub

3.3. Advanced HTML String Example with Both Libraries

Let's see how both libraries handle more complex HTML with CSS styling:

IronPDF Advanced Example:

using IronPdf;

var renderer = new ChromePdfRenderer();

// Configure rendering options
renderer.RenderingOptions.CssMediaType = PdfCssMediaType.Print;
renderer.RenderingOptions.PrintHtmlBackgrounds = true;
renderer.RenderingOptions.CreatePdfFormsFromHtml = true;

string advancedHtml = @"
    <html>
    <head>
        <style>
            body { font-family: Arial, sans-serif; }
            .invoice { border: 1px solid #ccc; padding: 20px; }
            .header { background-color: #f0f0f0; padding: 10px; }
        </style>
    </head>
    <body>
        <div class='invoice'>
            <div class='header'>
                <h1>Invoice #12345</h1>
            </div>
            <form>
                <input type='text' name='customer' placeholder='Customer Name'>
            </form>
        </div>
    </body>
    </html>";

var pdf = renderer.RenderHtmlAsPdf(advancedHtml);
pdf.SaveAs("advanced-invoice.pdf");

using IronPdf;

var renderer = new ChromePdfRenderer();

// Configure rendering options
renderer.RenderingOptions.CssMediaType = PdfCssMediaType.Print;
renderer.RenderingOptions.PrintHtmlBackgrounds = true;
renderer.RenderingOptions.CreatePdfFormsFromHtml = true;

string advancedHtml = @"
    <html>
    <head>
        <style>
            body { font-family: Arial, sans-serif; }
            .invoice { border: 1px solid #ccc; padding: 20px; }
            .header { background-color: #f0f0f0; padding: 10px; }
        </style>
    </head>
    <body>
        <div class='invoice'>
            <div class='header'>
                <h1>Invoice #12345</h1>
            </div>
            <form>
                <input type='text' name='customer' placeholder='Customer Name'>
            </form>
        </div>
    </body>
    </html>";

var pdf = renderer.RenderHtmlAsPdf(advancedHtml);
pdf.SaveAs("advanced-invoice.pdf");

Imports IronPdf

Private renderer = New ChromePdfRenderer()

' Configure rendering options
renderer.RenderingOptions.CssMediaType = PdfCssMediaType.Print
renderer.RenderingOptions.PrintHtmlBackgrounds = True
renderer.RenderingOptions.CreatePdfFormsFromHtml = True

Dim advancedHtml As String = "
    <html>
    <head>
        <style>
            body { font-family: Arial, sans-serif; }
            .invoice { border: 1px solid #ccc; padding: 20px; }
            .header { background-color: #f0f0f0; padding: 10px; }
        </style>
    </head>
    <body>
        <div class='invoice'>
            <div class='header'>
                <h1>Invoice #12345</h1>
            </div>
            <form>
                <input type='text' name='customer' placeholder='Customer Name'>
            </form>
        </div>
    </body>
    </html>"

Dim pdf = renderer.RenderHtmlAsPdf(advancedHtml)
pdf.SaveAs("advanced-invoice.pdf")

The ChromePdfRenderer class provides extensive control over the rendering process, including CSS media type selection, background rendering, and automatic form field creation from HTML input elements.

4. Convert HTML File to PDF File

4.1. HTML File with IronPDF

/**
 * HTML File to PDF
 * anchor-html-file-with-ironpdf
 **/
using IronPdf;

static void Main(string[] args)
{
    // Create rendering converter
    var renderer = new ChromePdfRenderer();

    // Render HTML file to PDF
    var pdf = renderer.RenderHtmlFileAsPdf("E:/myHtmlFile.html");

    // Save to target location
    pdf.SaveAs("E:/Sample.pdf");
}

/**
 * HTML File to PDF
 * anchor-html-file-with-ironpdf
 **/
using IronPdf;

static void Main(string[] args)
{
    // Create rendering converter
    var renderer = new ChromePdfRenderer();

    // Render HTML file to PDF
    var pdf = renderer.RenderHtmlFileAsPdf("E:/myHtmlFile.html");

    // Save to target location
    pdf.SaveAs("E:/Sample.pdf");
}

'''
''' * HTML File to PDF
''' * anchor-html-file-with-ironpdf
''' *
Imports IronPdf

Shared Sub Main(ByVal args() As String)
	' Create rendering converter
	Dim renderer = New ChromePdfRenderer()

	' Render HTML file to PDF
	Dim pdf = renderer.RenderHtmlFileAsPdf("E:/myHtmlFile.html")

	' Save to target location
	pdf.SaveAs("E:/Sample.pdf")
End Sub

IronPDF automatically handles:

• External CSS and JavaScript files
• Image references
• Font loading
• Relative path resolution

4.2. HTML File with ActivePDF WebGrabber

using APWebGrabber;

static void Main(string[] args)
{
    // Instantiate Object
    WebGrabber wg = new WebGrabber();

    // Specify file path to be converted
    wg.URL = "E:/myHtmlFile.html";

    // Specify the directory for newly generated file
    wg.OutputDirectory = "E:/";

    // Newly generated file name
    wg.NewDocumentName = "Sample.pdf";

    // Convert HTML file to PDF
    wg.ConvertToPDF();
}

using APWebGrabber;

static void Main(string[] args)
{
    // Instantiate Object
    WebGrabber wg = new WebGrabber();

    // Specify file path to be converted
    wg.URL = "E:/myHtmlFile.html";

    // Specify the directory for newly generated file
    wg.OutputDirectory = "E:/";

    // Newly generated file name
    wg.NewDocumentName = "Sample.pdf";

    // Convert HTML file to PDF
    wg.ConvertToPDF();
}

Imports APWebGrabber

Shared Sub Main(ByVal args() As String)
	' Instantiate Object
	Dim wg As New WebGrabber()

	' Specify file path to be converted
	wg.URL = "E:/myHtmlFile.html"

	' Specify the directory for newly generated file
	wg.OutputDirectory = "E:/"

	' Newly generated file name
	wg.NewDocumentName = "Sample.pdf"

	' Convert HTML file to PDF
	wg.ConvertToPDF()
End Sub

Note that ActivePDF WebGrabber uses the URL property for local files, which can be confusing for developers expecting a file-specific method.

5. Convert URL to PDF File

5.1. URL with IronPDF

/**
 * URL to PDF
 * anchor-url-with-ironpdf
 **/
using IronPdf;

static void Main(string[] args)
{
    // Create rendering converter
    var renderer = new ChromePdfRenderer();

    // Specify URL
    var pdf = renderer.RenderUrlAsPdf("https://ironpdf.com");

    // Save the file
    pdf.SaveAs("E:/Sample.pdf");
}

/**
 * URL to PDF
 * anchor-url-with-ironpdf
 **/
using IronPdf;

static void Main(string[] args)
{
    // Create rendering converter
    var renderer = new ChromePdfRenderer();

    // Specify URL
    var pdf = renderer.RenderUrlAsPdf("https://ironpdf.com");

    // Save the file
    pdf.SaveAs("E:/Sample.pdf");
}

'''
''' * URL to PDF
''' * anchor-url-with-ironpdf
''' *
Imports IronPdf

Shared Sub Main(ByVal args() As String)
	' Create rendering converter
	Dim renderer = New ChromePdfRenderer()

	' Specify URL
	Dim pdf = renderer.RenderUrlAsPdf("https://ironpdf.com")

	' Save the file
	pdf.SaveAs("E:/Sample.pdf")
End Sub

5.2. Async URL Conversion with IronPDF

IronPDF provides excellent async support for better performance:

using IronPdf;
using System.Threading.Tasks;

static async Task Main(string[] args)
{
    var renderer = new ChromePdfRenderer();

    // Configure for complex pages
    renderer.RenderingOptions.WaitFor.RenderDelay(2000); // Wait 2 seconds
    renderer.RenderingOptions.WaitFor.JavaScript(1500); // Wait for JS

    // Async conversion
    var pdf = await renderer.RenderUrlAsPdfAsync("https://complex-spa.com");
    await pdf.SaveAsAsync("E:/async-sample.pdf");
}

using IronPdf;
using System.Threading.Tasks;

static async Task Main(string[] args)
{
    var renderer = new ChromePdfRenderer();

    // Configure for complex pages
    renderer.RenderingOptions.WaitFor.RenderDelay(2000); // Wait 2 seconds
    renderer.RenderingOptions.WaitFor.JavaScript(1500); // Wait for JS

    // Async conversion
    var pdf = await renderer.RenderUrlAsPdfAsync("https://complex-spa.com");
    await pdf.SaveAsAsync("E:/async-sample.pdf");
}

Imports IronPdf
Imports System.Threading.Tasks

Shared Async Function Main(ByVal args() As String) As Task
	Dim renderer = New ChromePdfRenderer()

	' Configure for complex pages
	renderer.RenderingOptions.WaitFor.RenderDelay(2000) ' Wait 2 seconds
	renderer.RenderingOptions.WaitFor.JavaScript(1500) ' Wait for JS

	' Async conversion
	Dim pdf = Await renderer.RenderUrlAsPdfAsync("https://complex-spa.com")
	Await pdf.SaveAsAsync("E:/async-sample.pdf")
End Function

The WaitFor class provides precise control over rendering timing, essential for JavaScript-heavy applications. You can wait for specific elements, network idle states, or custom JavaScript events.

5.3. URL with ActivePDF WebGrabber

using APWebGrabber;

static void Main(string[] args)
{
    // Instantiate Object
    WebGrabber wg = new WebGrabber();

    // Specify URL 
    wg.URL = "https://www.example.com/";

    // Specify the directory for newly generated file
    wg.OutputDirectory = "E:/";

    // Specify file name
    wg.NewDocumentName = "Sample.pdf";

    // Set timeout for conversion
    wg.TimeoutSpan = new TimeSpan(0, 0, 30);

    // Convert specified URL webpage to PDF
    wg.ConvertToPDF();
}

using APWebGrabber;

static void Main(string[] args)
{
    // Instantiate Object
    WebGrabber wg = new WebGrabber();

    // Specify URL 
    wg.URL = "https://www.example.com/";

    // Specify the directory for newly generated file
    wg.OutputDirectory = "E:/";

    // Specify file name
    wg.NewDocumentName = "Sample.pdf";

    // Set timeout for conversion
    wg.TimeoutSpan = new TimeSpan(0, 0, 30);

    // Convert specified URL webpage to PDF
    wg.ConvertToPDF();
}

Imports APWebGrabber

Shared Sub Main(ByVal args() As String)
	' Instantiate Object
	Dim wg As New WebGrabber()

	' Specify URL 
	wg.URL = "https://www.example.com/"

	' Specify the directory for newly generated file
	wg.OutputDirectory = "E:/"

	' Specify file name
	wg.NewDocumentName = "Sample.pdf"

	' Set timeout for conversion
	wg.TimeoutSpan = New TimeSpan(0, 0, 30)

	' Convert specified URL webpage to PDF
	wg.ConvertToPDF()
End Sub

6. Create a Watermark on PDF

6.1. Watermark with IronPDF

IronPDF provides flexible watermarking through HTML/CSS:

/**
 * Watermark PDF
 * anchor-watermark-with-ironpdf
 **/
using IronPdf;

static void Main(string[] args)
{
    var renderer = new ChromePdfRenderer();

    // Source HTML string
    string html = "<h1 style='text-align:center'>WaterMark Example</h1>";

    // Create PDF
    var pdf = renderer.RenderHtmlAsPdf(html);

    // Apply watermark with HTML/CSS
    pdf.ApplyWatermark("<h2 style='color:red; opacity:0.5'>CONFIDENTIAL</h2>", 
        rotation: 30, 
        opacity: 50);

    // Save the document
    pdf.SaveAs("E:/Sample.pdf");
}

/**
 * Watermark PDF
 * anchor-watermark-with-ironpdf
 **/
using IronPdf;

static void Main(string[] args)
{
    var renderer = new ChromePdfRenderer();

    // Source HTML string
    string html = "<h1 style='text-align:center'>WaterMark Example</h1>";

    // Create PDF
    var pdf = renderer.RenderHtmlAsPdf(html);

    // Apply watermark with HTML/CSS
    pdf.ApplyWatermark("<h2 style='color:red; opacity:0.5'>CONFIDENTIAL</h2>", 
        rotation: 30, 
        opacity: 50);

    // Save the document
    pdf.SaveAs("E:/Sample.pdf");
}

'''
''' * Watermark PDF
''' * anchor-watermark-with-ironpdf
''' *
Imports IronPdf

Shared Sub Main(ByVal args() As String)
	Dim renderer = New ChromePdfRenderer()

	' Source HTML string
	Dim html As String = "<h1 style='text-align:center'>WaterMark Example</h1>"

	' Create PDF
	Dim pdf = renderer.RenderHtmlAsPdf(html)

	' Apply watermark with HTML/CSS
	pdf.ApplyWatermark("<h2 style='color:red; opacity:0.5'>CONFIDENTIAL</h2>", rotation:= 30, opacity:= 50)

	' Save the document
	pdf.SaveAs("E:/Sample.pdf")
End Sub

Advanced watermarking with IronPDF:

// Image watermark
pdf.ApplyWatermark($@"<img src='logo.png' style='width:200px'>", 
    rotation: 0, 
    opacity: 30, 
    verticalAlignment: VerticalAlignment.Middle);

// Complex HTML watermark with positioning
string complexWatermark = @"
    <div style='text-align:center; font-family:Arial'>
        <h1 style='color:#ff0000'>DRAFT</h1>
        <p>Generated: " + DateTime.Now.ToString() + @"</p>
    </div>";

pdf.ApplyWatermark(complexWatermark, rotation: 45, opacity: 25);

// Image watermark
pdf.ApplyWatermark($@"<img src='logo.png' style='width:200px'>", 
    rotation: 0, 
    opacity: 30, 
    verticalAlignment: VerticalAlignment.Middle);

// Complex HTML watermark with positioning
string complexWatermark = @"
    <div style='text-align:center; font-family:Arial'>
        <h1 style='color:#ff0000'>DRAFT</h1>
        <p>Generated: " + DateTime.Now.ToString() + @"</p>
    </div>";

pdf.ApplyWatermark(complexWatermark, rotation: 45, opacity: 25);

' Image watermark
pdf.ApplyWatermark($"<img src='logo.png' style='width:200px'>", rotation:= 0, opacity:= 30, verticalAlignment:= VerticalAlignment.Middle)

' Complex HTML watermark with positioning
Dim complexWatermark As String = "
    <div style='text-align:center; font-family:Arial'>
        <h1 style='color:#ff0000'>DRAFT</h1>
        <p>Generated: " & DateTime.Now.ToString() & "</p>
    </div>"

pdf.ApplyWatermark(complexWatermark, rotation:= 45, opacity:= 25)

6.2. Watermark with ActivePDF WebGrabber

ActivePDF requires using text stamps as a workaround:

using APWebGrabber;

static void Main(string[] args)
{
    WebGrabber wg = new WebGrabber();

    string html = "<h1 style='text-align:center'>WaterMark Example</h1>";
    wg.CreateFromHTMLText = html;

    // Add text stamp as watermark
    wg.AddStampText(270.0f, 350.0f, "WaterMark");

    // Configure stamp appearance
    wg.StampFontSize = 20;
    wg.StampFont = "Times New Roman";
    wg.StampFontTransparency = 1f;
    wg.StampRotation = 45.0f;
    wg.StampColorNET = new ADK.PDF.Color() 
    { 
        Red = 255, 
        Green = 0, 
        Blue = 0, 
        Gray = 0 
    };

    wg.OutputDirectory = "E:/";
    wg.NewDocumentName = "Sample.pdf";
    wg.ConvertToPDF();
}

using APWebGrabber;

static void Main(string[] args)
{
    WebGrabber wg = new WebGrabber();

    string html = "<h1 style='text-align:center'>WaterMark Example</h1>";
    wg.CreateFromHTMLText = html;

    // Add text stamp as watermark
    wg.AddStampText(270.0f, 350.0f, "WaterMark");

    // Configure stamp appearance
    wg.StampFontSize = 20;
    wg.StampFont = "Times New Roman";
    wg.StampFontTransparency = 1f;
    wg.StampRotation = 45.0f;
    wg.StampColorNET = new ADK.PDF.Color() 
    { 
        Red = 255, 
        Green = 0, 
        Blue = 0, 
        Gray = 0 
    };

    wg.OutputDirectory = "E:/";
    wg.NewDocumentName = "Sample.pdf";
    wg.ConvertToPDF();
}

Imports APWebGrabber

Shared Sub Main(ByVal args() As String)
	Dim wg As New WebGrabber()

	Dim html As String = "<h1 style='text-align:center'>WaterMark Example</h1>"
	wg.CreateFromHTMLText = html

	' Add text stamp as watermark
	wg.AddStampText(270.0F, 350.0F, "WaterMark")

	' Configure stamp appearance
	wg.StampFontSize = 20
	wg.StampFont = "Times New Roman"
	wg.StampFontTransparency = 1F
	wg.StampRotation = 45.0F
	wg.StampColorNET = New ADK.PDF.Color() With {
		.Red = 255,
		.Green = 0,
		.Blue = 0,
		.Gray = 0
	}

	wg.OutputDirectory = "E:/"
	wg.NewDocumentName = "Sample.pdf"
	wg.ConvertToPDF()
End Sub

The ActivePDF approach is limited to text-only watermarks and requires manual positioning calculations.

7. Set Headers and Footers for PDFs

7.1. Headers and Footers with IronPDF

IronPDF offers both simple text and complex HTML headers/footers:

/**
 * Set Header Footers
 * anchor-headers-and-footers-with-ironpdf
 **/
using IronPdf;

static void Main(string[] args)
{
    var renderer = new ChromePdfRenderer();

    // Configure text header/footer
    renderer.RenderingOptions.TextHeader = new TextHeaderFooter()
    {
        LeftText = "Company Name",
        CenterText = "{page} of {total-pages}",
        RightText = "{date} {time}",
        DrawDividerLine = true,
        FontSize = 12,
        FontFamily = "Arial"
    };

    renderer.RenderingOptions.TextFooter = new TextHeaderFooter()
    {
        CenterText = "Copyright © 2025",
        RightText = "Page {page}",
        FontSize = 10
    };

    // HTML content
    string html = "<h1>Document Content</h1><p>Lorem ipsum...</p>";
    var pdf = renderer.RenderHtmlAsPdf(html);
    pdf.SaveAs("E:/document.pdf");
}

/**
 * Set Header Footers
 * anchor-headers-and-footers-with-ironpdf
 **/
using IronPdf;

static void Main(string[] args)
{
    var renderer = new ChromePdfRenderer();

    // Configure text header/footer
    renderer.RenderingOptions.TextHeader = new TextHeaderFooter()
    {
        LeftText = "Company Name",
        CenterText = "{page} of {total-pages}",
        RightText = "{date} {time}",
        DrawDividerLine = true,
        FontSize = 12,
        FontFamily = "Arial"
    };

    renderer.RenderingOptions.TextFooter = new TextHeaderFooter()
    {
        CenterText = "Copyright © 2025",
        RightText = "Page {page}",
        FontSize = 10
    };

    // HTML content
    string html = "<h1>Document Content</h1><p>Lorem ipsum...</p>";
    var pdf = renderer.RenderHtmlAsPdf(html);
    pdf.SaveAs("E:/document.pdf");
}

'''
''' * Set Header Footers
''' * anchor-headers-and-footers-with-ironpdf
''' *
Imports IronPdf

Shared Sub Main(ByVal args() As String)
	Dim renderer = New ChromePdfRenderer()

	' Configure text header/footer
	renderer.RenderingOptions.TextHeader = New TextHeaderFooter() With {
		.LeftText = "Company Name",
		.CenterText = "{page} of {total-pages}",
		.RightText = "{date} {time}",
		.DrawDividerLine = True,
		.FontSize = 12,
		.FontFamily = "Arial"
	}

	renderer.RenderingOptions.TextFooter = New TextHeaderFooter() With {
		.CenterText = "Copyright © 2025",
		.RightText = "Page {page}",
		.FontSize = 10
	}

	' HTML content
	Dim html As String = "<h1>Document Content</h1><p>Lorem ipsum...</p>"
	Dim pdf = renderer.RenderHtmlAsPdf(html)
	pdf.SaveAs("E:/document.pdf")
End Sub

For more complex headers/footers using HTML:

// HTML headers with dynamic content
renderer.RenderingOptions.HtmlHeader = new HtmlHeaderFooter()
{
    HtmlFragment = @"
        <div style='display: flex; justify-content: space-between; padding: 10px;'>
            <img src='logo.png' style='height: 30px;'>
            <div>{page} / {total-pages}</div>
        </div>",
    Height = 50
};

// HTML headers with dynamic content
renderer.RenderingOptions.HtmlHeader = new HtmlHeaderFooter()
{
    HtmlFragment = @"
        <div style='display: flex; justify-content: space-between; padding: 10px;'>
            <img src='logo.png' style='height: 30px;'>
            <div>{page} / {total-pages}</div>
        </div>",
    Height = 50
};

' HTML headers with dynamic content
renderer.RenderingOptions.HtmlHeader = New HtmlHeaderFooter() With {
	.HtmlFragment = "
        <div style='display: flex; justify-content: space-between; padding: 10px;'>
            <img src='logo.png' style='height: 30px;'>
            <div>{page} / {total-pages}</div>
        </div>",
	.Height = 50
}

The predefined merge fields available in IronPDF include:

• {page} - Current page number
• {total-pages} - Total number of pages
• {url} - Source URL (if applicable)
• {date} - Current date
• {time} - Current time
• {html-title} - Title from HTML document
• {pdf-title} - PDF metadata title

7.2. Headers and Footers with ActivePDF WebGrabber

using APWebGrabber;

static void Main(string[] args)
{
    WebGrabber wg = new WebGrabber();

    string html = @"<h1 style='text-align:center;'>Page Content</h1>";
    wg.CreateFromHTMLText = html;

    // Configure header
    wg.HeaderHeight = 0.5f;
    wg.HeaderHTML = "<div style='float: left;'>Header Text</div>";
    wg.HeaderHTML += $"<div style='float: right;'>{DateTime.Now.ToShortDateString()}</div>";

    // Configure footer
    wg.FooterHeight = 0.5f;
    wg.FooterHTML = "<div style='text-align: right;'>%cp% of %tp%</div>";

    wg.OutputDirectory = "E:/";
    wg.NewDocumentName = "Sample.pdf";
    wg.ConvertToPDF();
}

using APWebGrabber;

static void Main(string[] args)
{
    WebGrabber wg = new WebGrabber();

    string html = @"<h1 style='text-align:center;'>Page Content</h1>";
    wg.CreateFromHTMLText = html;

    // Configure header
    wg.HeaderHeight = 0.5f;
    wg.HeaderHTML = "<div style='float: left;'>Header Text</div>";
    wg.HeaderHTML += $"<div style='float: right;'>{DateTime.Now.ToShortDateString()}</div>";

    // Configure footer
    wg.FooterHeight = 0.5f;
    wg.FooterHTML = "<div style='text-align: right;'>%cp% of %tp%</div>";

    wg.OutputDirectory = "E:/";
    wg.NewDocumentName = "Sample.pdf";
    wg.ConvertToPDF();
}

Imports APWebGrabber

Shared Sub Main(ByVal args() As String)
	Dim wg As New WebGrabber()

	Dim html As String = "<h1 style='text-align:center;'>Page Content</h1>"
	wg.CreateFromHTMLText = html

	' Configure header
	wg.HeaderHeight = 0.5F
	wg.HeaderHTML = "<div style='float: left;'>Header Text</div>"
	wg.HeaderHTML += $"<div style='float: right;'>{DateTime.Now.ToShortDateString()}</div>"

	' Configure footer
	wg.FooterHeight = 0.5F
	wg.FooterHTML = "<div style='text-align: right;'>%cp% of %tp%</div>"

	wg.OutputDirectory = "E:/"
	wg.NewDocumentName = "Sample.pdf"
	wg.ConvertToPDF()
End Sub

Note: ActivePDF uses proprietary placeholders (%cp% for current page, %tp% for total pages) and requires manual HTML construction.

8. Advanced PDF Features Comparison

8.1. PDF Form Creation and Manipulation

IronPDF Form Example

using IronPdf;

// Create a PDF with form fields
var renderer = new ChromePdfRenderer();
renderer.RenderingOptions.CreatePdfFormsFromHtml = true;

string formHtml = @"
    <form>
        <label>Name: <input type='text' name='fullname'></label><br>
        <label>Email: <input type='email' name='email'></label><br>
        <label>Subscribe: <input type='checkbox' name='subscribe'></label><br>
        <label>
            Plan:
            <select name='plan'>
                <option>Basic</option>
                <option>Premium</option>
            </select>
        </label>
    </form>";

var pdf = renderer.RenderHtmlAsPdf(formHtml);

// Fill form fields programmatically
pdf.Form.FindFormField("fullname").Value = "John Doe";
pdf.Form.FindFormField("email").Value = "john@example.com";
pdf.Form.FindFormField("subscribe").Value = "Yes";

pdf.SaveAs("filled-form.pdf");

using IronPdf;

// Create a PDF with form fields
var renderer = new ChromePdfRenderer();
renderer.RenderingOptions.CreatePdfFormsFromHtml = true;

string formHtml = @"
    <form>
        <label>Name: <input type='text' name='fullname'></label><br>
        <label>Email: <input type='email' name='email'></label><br>
        <label>Subscribe: <input type='checkbox' name='subscribe'></label><br>
        <label>
            Plan:
            <select name='plan'>
                <option>Basic</option>
                <option>Premium</option>
            </select>
        </label>
    </form>";

var pdf = renderer.RenderHtmlAsPdf(formHtml);

// Fill form fields programmatically
pdf.Form.FindFormField("fullname").Value = "John Doe";
pdf.Form.FindFormField("email").Value = "john@example.com";
pdf.Form.FindFormField("subscribe").Value = "Yes";

pdf.SaveAs("filled-form.pdf");

Imports IronPdf

' Create a PDF with form fields
Private renderer = New ChromePdfRenderer()
renderer.RenderingOptions.CreatePdfFormsFromHtml = True

Dim formHtml As String = "
    <form>
        <label>Name: <input type='text' name='fullname'></label><br>
        <label>Email: <input type='email' name='email'></label><br>
        <label>Subscribe: <input type='checkbox' name='subscribe'></label><br>
        <label>
            Plan:
            <select name='plan'>
                <option>Basic</option>
                <option>Premium</option>
            </select>
        </label>
    </form>"

Dim pdf = renderer.RenderHtmlAsPdf(formHtml)

' Fill form fields programmatically
pdf.Form.FindFormField("fullname").Value = "John Doe"
pdf.Form.FindFormField("email").Value = "john@example.com"
pdf.Form.FindFormField("subscribe").Value = "Yes"

pdf.SaveAs("filled-form.pdf")

ActivePDF Toolkit Form Example

// ActivePDF requires separate Toolkit component for forms
APToolkitNET.Toolkit toolkit = new APToolkitNET.Toolkit();

// Open existing PDF
toolkit.OpenInputFile("form-template.pdf");

// Set form field values
toolkit.SetFormFieldData("fullname", "John Doe", -997);
toolkit.SetFormFieldData("email", "john@example.com", -997);

// Save filled form
toolkit.CopyForm(0, 0);
toolkit.SaveAs("filled-form.pdf");

// ActivePDF requires separate Toolkit component for forms
APToolkitNET.Toolkit toolkit = new APToolkitNET.Toolkit();

// Open existing PDF
toolkit.OpenInputFile("form-template.pdf");

// Set form field values
toolkit.SetFormFieldData("fullname", "John Doe", -997);
toolkit.SetFormFieldData("email", "john@example.com", -997);

// Save filled form
toolkit.CopyForm(0, 0);
toolkit.SaveAs("filled-form.pdf");

' ActivePDF requires separate Toolkit component for forms
Dim toolkit As New APToolkitNET.Toolkit()

' Open existing PDF
toolkit.OpenInputFile("form-template.pdf")

' Set form field values
toolkit.SetFormFieldData("fullname", "John Doe", -997)
toolkit.SetFormFieldData("email", "john@example.com", -997)

' Save filled form
toolkit.CopyForm(0, 0)
toolkit.SaveAs("filled-form.pdf")

8.2. PDF/A Compliance

Both libraries support PDF/A, but with different approaches:

IronPDF PDF/A

using IronPdf;

var renderer = new ChromePdfRenderer();
var pdf = renderer.RenderHtmlAsPdf("<h1>Archival Document</h1>");

// Convert to PDF/A-3B
pdf.SaveAsPdfA("archive.pdf", PdfAVersions.PdfA3B);

using IronPdf;

var renderer = new ChromePdfRenderer();
var pdf = renderer.RenderHtmlAsPdf("<h1>Archival Document</h1>");

// Convert to PDF/A-3B
pdf.SaveAsPdfA("archive.pdf", PdfAVersions.PdfA3B);

Imports IronPdf

Private renderer = New ChromePdfRenderer()
Private pdf = renderer.RenderHtmlAsPdf("<h1>Archival Document</h1>")

' Convert to PDF/A-3B
pdf.SaveAsPdfA("archive.pdf", PdfAVersions.PdfA3B)

ActivePDF DocConverter PDF/A

// Requires DocConverter component
DocConverter dc = new DocConverter();
dc.SetPDFACompliance(PDFACompliance.PDFA2B);
dc.ConvertToPDF("input.html", "output.pdf");

// Requires DocConverter component
DocConverter dc = new DocConverter();
dc.SetPDFACompliance(PDFACompliance.PDFA2B);
dc.ConvertToPDF("input.html", "output.pdf");

' Requires DocConverter component
Dim dc As New DocConverter()
dc.SetPDFACompliance(PDFACompliance.PDFA2B)
dc.ConvertToPDF("input.html", "output.pdf")

8.3. Digital Signatures

IronPDF Digital Signature

using IronPdf;
using IronPdf.Signing;

// Load or create PDF
var pdf = PdfDocument.FromFile("document.pdf");

// Create signature with certificate
var signature = new PdfSignature("certificate.pfx", "password");

// Configure signature appearance
signature.SignatureImage = new PdfSignatureImage("signature.png");
signature.SigningContact = "john@company.com";
signature.SigningReason = "Document Approval";

// Apply signature
pdf.Sign(signature);
pdf.SaveAs("signed.pdf");

using IronPdf;
using IronPdf.Signing;

// Load or create PDF
var pdf = PdfDocument.FromFile("document.pdf");

// Create signature with certificate
var signature = new PdfSignature("certificate.pfx", "password");

// Configure signature appearance
signature.SignatureImage = new PdfSignatureImage("signature.png");
signature.SigningContact = "john@company.com";
signature.SigningReason = "Document Approval";

// Apply signature
pdf.Sign(signature);
pdf.SaveAs("signed.pdf");

Imports IronPdf
Imports IronPdf.Signing

' Load or create PDF
Private pdf = PdfDocument.FromFile("document.pdf")

' Create signature with certificate
Private signature = New PdfSignature("certificate.pfx", "password")

' Configure signature appearance
signature.SignatureImage = New PdfSignatureImage("signature.png")
signature.SigningContact = "john@company.com"
signature.SigningReason = "Document Approval"

' Apply signature
pdf.Sign(signature)
pdf.SaveAs("signed.pdf")

8.4. Batch Processing Comparison

IronPDF Batch Processing

using IronPdf;
using System.Threading.Tasks;
using System.IO;

static async Task BatchConvertAsync()
{
    var renderer = new ChromePdfRenderer();
    var tasks = new List<Task>();

    foreach (var file in Directory.GetFiles("input", "*.html"))
    {
        tasks.Add(Task.Run(async () =>
        {
            var pdf = await renderer.RenderHtmlFileAsPdfAsync(file);
            var outputPath = Path.Combine("output", 
                Path.GetFileNameWithoutExtension(file) + ".pdf");
            await pdf.SaveAsAsync(outputPath);
        }));
    }

    await Task.WhenAll(tasks);
}

using IronPdf;
using System.Threading.Tasks;
using System.IO;

static async Task BatchConvertAsync()
{
    var renderer = new ChromePdfRenderer();
    var tasks = new List<Task>();

    foreach (var file in Directory.GetFiles("input", "*.html"))
    {
        tasks.Add(Task.Run(async () =>
        {
            var pdf = await renderer.RenderHtmlFileAsPdfAsync(file);
            var outputPath = Path.Combine("output", 
                Path.GetFileNameWithoutExtension(file) + ".pdf");
            await pdf.SaveAsAsync(outputPath);
        }));
    }

    await Task.WhenAll(tasks);
}

Imports IronPdf
Imports System.Threading.Tasks
Imports System.IO

Shared Async Function BatchConvertAsync() As Task
	Dim renderer = New ChromePdfRenderer()
	Dim tasks = New List(Of Task)()

	For Each file In Directory.GetFiles("input", "*.html")
		tasks.Add(Task.Run(Async Function()
			Dim pdf = Await renderer.RenderHtmlFileAsPdfAsync(file)
			Dim outputPath = Path.Combine("output", Path.GetFileNameWithoutExtension(file) & ".pdf")
			Await pdf.SaveAsAsync(outputPath)
		End Function))
	Next file

	Await Task.WhenAll(tasks)
End Function

ActivePDF DocConverter Batch Processing

// DocConverter supports watched folders for automatic conversion
DocConverter dc = new DocConverter();

// Configure watched folder
dc.AddWatchedFolder(@"C:\Input", @"C:\Output", "*.html");
dc.StartWatching();

// Files dropped in the input folder are automatically converted

// DocConverter supports watched folders for automatic conversion
DocConverter dc = new DocConverter();

// Configure watched folder
dc.AddWatchedFolder(@"C:\Input", @"C:\Output", "*.html");
dc.StartWatching();

// Files dropped in the input folder are automatically converted

' DocConverter supports watched folders for automatic conversion
Dim dc As New DocConverter()

' Configure watched folder
dc.AddWatchedFolder("C:\Input", "C:\Output", "*.html")
dc.StartWatching()

' Files dropped in the input folder are automatically converted

9. Performance and Resource Comparison

How do the libraries compare in terms of performance?

Based on benchmark testing and real-world usage:

IronPDF Performance Metrics

• HTML rendering: ~125ms for simple content
• Complex sites: 835ms (tested on static websites)
• Memory usage: Under 10MB typical
• Initial startup: 2-3 seconds (Chrome engine initialization)
• 75% reduction in memory usage for headers/footers
• 80% reduction in loading time for large documents

ActivePDF Performance Characteristics

• Variable based on rendering engine selected
• Native engine: Faster for simple HTML
• IE engine: Slower but better compatibility with legacy content
• Service-based architecture adds overhead
• Better suited for batch processing scenarios

Memory Management Best Practices

IronPDF Memory Optimization

// Dispose of resources properly
using (var renderer = new ChromePdfRenderer())
{
    using (var pdf = renderer.RenderHtmlAsPdf(html))
    {
        pdf.SaveAs("output.pdf");
    }
}

// For large documents, use streaming
await pdf.Stream.CopyToAsync(fileStream);

// Dispose of resources properly
using (var renderer = new ChromePdfRenderer())
{
    using (var pdf = renderer.RenderHtmlAsPdf(html))
    {
        pdf.SaveAs("output.pdf");
    }
}

// For large documents, use streaming
await pdf.Stream.CopyToAsync(fileStream);

' Dispose of resources properly
Using renderer = New ChromePdfRenderer()
	Using pdf = renderer.RenderHtmlAsPdf(html)
		pdf.SaveAs("output.pdf")
	End Using
End Using

' For large documents, use streaming
Await pdf.Stream.CopyToAsync(fileStream)

ActivePDF Memory Considerations

• Service-based architecture isolates memory usage
• Automatic cleanup between conversions
• Configure service memory limits in Windows

10. ActivePDF Components Overview

What other ActivePDF components are available?

11. Licensing and Pricing Comparison

How do licensing costs compare between IronPDF and ActivePDF?

IronPDF Licensing (Transparent Pricing)

• Lite License: $749 (1 developer, 1 location, 1 project)
• Plus License: $1,499 (3 developers, 3 locations, 3 projects)
• Professional License: $2,999 (10 developers, 10 locations, 10 projects)
• Unlimited License: Custom pricing (unlimited developers/projects)
• Iron Suite: $1,498 (all 10 Iron Software products)

ActivePDF Licensing (Per Component)

• WebGrabber: Starting at $2,499 (one-time payment)
• DocConverter: Starting at $2,999 (one-time payment)
• Toolkit: Starting at $1,500+ (varies by features)
• Support: Additional cost for premium support
• Multiple Components: Costs add up quickly

Total Cost of Ownership Example

Scenario: Small Development Team (3 developers)

• IronPDF Plus License: $1,499 (all features included)
• ActivePDF WebGrabber + DocConverter: $5,498 minimum
• Savings with IronPDF: 73%

Scenario: Enterprise Team (10 developers)

• IronPDF Professional: $2,999 (all features)
• ActivePDF Suite (multiple components): $10,000+
• Savings with IronPDF: 70%+

12. Support and Documentation

Which library offers better developer support?

IronPDF Support

• 24/5 engineering support included with all licenses
• Direct access to development team
• Comprehensive documentation with 100+ examples
• Active community and forums
• Regular updates and improvements
• Response time: 24-48 hours typical

ActivePDF Support

• Support portal access
• Knowledge base articles
• Community forums
• Premium support available at additional cost
• Legacy documentation for older versions

Conclusion: Which PDF library should you choose?

When to Choose IronPDF:

• Modern .NET Development: Full support for .NET 9/10 and cross-platform deployment
• Rapid Development: Intuitive API requires minimal code
• Web Applications: Superior HTML/CSS/JavaScript rendering with Chrome engine
• Cloud Deployment: Optimized for Azure, AWS, and containerized environments
• Budget Conscious: Lower entry cost with all features included
• Learning Curve: Extensive documentation and examples for quick adoption

When to Choose ActivePDF:

• Legacy Systems: Existing ActivePDF infrastructure or Windows Server environments
• Diverse File Formats: Need to convert 300+ file types to PDF
• Enterprise Workflows: Watched folders and automated batch processing
• Advanced Forms: Complex XFA forms or specialized form requirements
• Compliance Requirements: Multiple PDF/A levels for specific industries

Final Recommendation

For most modern .NET development scenarios, IronPDF offers the best combination of features, performance, and value. Its intuitive API, comprehensive documentation, and transparent pricing make it ideal for teams looking to implement PDF functionality quickly and efficiently.

ActivePDF remains a viable choice for enterprises with specific requirements around file format support, legacy system integration, or existing ActivePDF infrastructure. However, the modular pricing model and complex installation process may present challenges for smaller teams or new projects.

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