Best SmashingDocs Alternatives to Try in 2026

SmashingDocs is great at creating simple, fill-in-the-blank documents quickly, especially when you need a fast PDF without signing up or saving files.

It also claims you can create certificates using its completely free tools. But how does it really compare to platforms built specifically for creating, managing and issuing certificates?

Let’s analyze SmashingDocs and compare it with other tools, like Certifier, that enable professional certificate creation.

SmashingDocs is completely free but limited to manual, one-off document creation.

Many users switch to tools with editable templates, Google Docs compatibility and better formatting control.

Certifier leads SmashingDocs alternatives for automated certificates.

SmashingDocs overview

SmashingDocs is a free platform focused on Google Docs–compatible templates and printables for everyday professional and personal use.

It offers a massive library of editable templates, including certificates, resumes, invoices, planners, newsletters, that you can open directly in Google Docs or Word, customize and download as print-ready PDF files.

In addition to templates, SmashingDocs provides free tools like a resume builder, invoice generator, certificate maker and QR code generator, making it a go-to resource for quick document creation without accounts, paid software or design skills.

Top SmashingDocs features

Massive library of free templates with professional designs

Google Docs compatible templates you can save to your own Google Drive

Editable templates for resumes, invoices, certificates and printables

One-click download as PDF files ready for print or sharing

Free tools for document creation without logging in or creating an account

Pros

Completely free for personal and commercial use

No account required and no data stored after download

Works seamlessly with Google Docs, Word and PDF formats

Ideal for fast document creation with clean layout and formatting

Helpful resource for resumes, invoices, planners and simple certificates

Cons

No automation for bulk document or certificate creation

No applicant tracking systems or ATS compatibility checks for resumes

Limited editing and structure control compared to dedicated builders

No credential verification, lifecycle management or update workflows

Not built for managing certifications, credentials or recurring issuance

Top SmashingDocs alternatives

SmashingDocs works for quick downloads, but many users need more than a single-page generator. Check out the best SmashingDocs alternatives you may want to try out.

01 Certifier — the best SmashingDocs alternative for certificate making

Certifier goes far beyond basic document creation. It’s a credential management platform that lets you create professional certificates and virtual badges online without manual editing.

You choose a template, add names and details in bulk and Certifier takes care of generating and sending digital certificates for you. You can also manage the documents after issuance.

Why users choose Certifier

Automates certificate and credential creation instead of manual editing

Uses customizable certificate templates that stay consistent across documents

Supports sending certificates in bulk through spreadsheets

Enable QR code certificate verification

Helps users showcase certifications and skills with confidence

Keeps certificates organized after issuing, making it easy to update details, manage credential expirations and resend them when needed

Benefits

Strong professional impression across certificates and documents

Secure credentials with verification and references

Scales from small teams to large programs

Reduces formatting errors and manual work

Recommended to read

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Drawbacks

Not intended for casual one-page graphics

Focused on credentials rather than resume-only documents

Pricing

Certifier offers a free plan and paid options for automation and advanced workflows. It suits users who want professional results and long-term document value.

02 Google Doc: best for editable templates

Google Docs is one of the most common SmashingDocs alternatives for users who want free, easy-to-edit templates and files saved directly to their own Google Drive.

Benefits

Free Google Docs access with no software installation

Large Google Docs template gallery for resumes, letters and documents

Files saved automatically to your own Google Drive

Easy sharing, links and collaboration

Drawbacks

Limited design flexibility compared to dedicated builders

No built-in ATS testing or credential verification

Google Docs templates often require manual formatting fixes

Recommended to read

How to Create Certificates in Google Docs

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03 Canva: best for professional designs

Canva works well for users who care about visual presentation. It offers a massive library of templates (certificates, resumes, infographics, social media graphics and more) and an intuitive editor suited for creative layouts.

Benefits

Massive library of templates with modern graphics and icons

Easy editing for non-designers

Good option for graphic designer–style layouts

Export files as PDF for download or sharing

Drawbacks

Not ATS friendly by default for resumes

No credential verification or automation

Advanced features require a paid plan

See how to create certificates in Canva in a few simple steps.

04 Fotor: best for quick customization

Fotor sits between Canva and SmashingDocs (see other Fotor alternatives if you’re interested in this tool). It offers more editing power than SmashingDocs but fewer structured tools than professional platforms.

Benefits

Customizable templates with flexible layout and formatting

Export documents as PDF, PNG or JPG

Works well for one-off creative documents

Drawbacks

Free version includes a watermark

No ATS compatibility

No credential management

Limited automation and document structure

05 CredSure: best for blockchain credentials

CredSure focuses on verifiable digital certificates stored on blockchain. It’s designed for organizations issuing official credentials rather than individual document creation.

Benefits

Blockchain-backed credentials with strong verification

QR code validation and analytics

Supports integrations and automated issuing

Drawbacks

Not suitable for resumes or general document editing

Pricing is sales-led and higher than basic tools

Overkill for simple document needs

No free trial

Teams comparing blockchain-based credential tools often look at CredSure alongside Credly. This CredSure vs Credly comparison outlines key differences in verification approach, pricing and use cases.

If you’re looking for similar tools, check out more Credsure alternatives.

When should you use SmashingDocs?

SmashingDocs is helpful for fast, private PDF creation. But when your documents support jobs, hiring, credentials or career growth, stronger tools make a real difference.

If you need:

Automation and credentials and easy management → Certifier

Free editable documents → Google Docs

Professional designs → Canva

Quick creative edits → Fotor

Verified certificates → Certifier, CredSure

Create and Send Digital Credentials

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Choose the best SmashingDocs alternative today

SmashingDocs proves that free tools have value. It’s a tool for fast, one-off document making. When certificates matter beyond a simple PDF—automation, management and verification—Certifier is the clear SmashingDocs alternative.

Sign up for Certifier for free and issue 250 certificates.