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PDF/A-1b prioritizes visual reproducibility
PDF/A-1b is based on an older PDF model and focuses on preserving the visual appearance of pages. It is widely recognized in established records workflows.
Its restrictions make it a conservative choice, but it does not guarantee logical reading order or accessibility.
PDF/A-2b supports a newer PDF foundation
PDF/A-2 permits capabilities unavailable to PDF/A-1, including newer compression and transparency behavior within the standard rules.
A policy that names PDF/A-1b should not be silently changed to PDF/A-2b simply because the latter is newer.
PDF/A-3b can carry embedded files
PDF/A-3 allows arbitrary embedded files, which can be useful for invoices or source-data packages. That flexibility creates additional preservation and security decisions.
Embedded attachments must be governed, retained, and scanned according to the archive policy.
Let policy and verified support decide
Use the exact profile required by the receiving archive. Confirm that both conversion and formal validation support it, then retain the validator report with the archival package.
| Profile | Typical emphasis | Important boundary |
|---|---|---|
| PDF/A-1b | Visual preservation | Older PDF feature set |
| PDF/A-2b | Modern visual preservation | Must be accepted by policy |
| PDF/A-3b | Archive plus embedded files | Attachments require governance |
Put the workflow into practice
Arrange source documents, select the pages you need, and create one PDF locally in your browser. Review the result before choosing any optional next step.
Try Merge PDFFrequently asked questions
Clear answers before you merge
Is PDF/A-3 always better?
No. It allows embedded files, which may be unnecessary or prohibited by the receiving archive.
Does the “b” level mean accessible?
No. Level B focuses on visual reproduction, not complete semantic accessibility.
Can I choose a profile the converter does not list?
No. A profile should be selectable only when the active engine can generate it.
Which profile does Nexynto currently expose?
The current service exposes PDF/A-1b when its archival export engine is available.
