HTML2PDFAPI vs Prince XML: Complete Comparison [2026]
Prince XML is a desktop PDF generator known for excellent CSS print support. This guide compares it with HTML2PDFAPI's cloud API approach.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | HTML2PDFAPI | Prince XML |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Per conversion | Per server license |
| Starting Price | $17/month | $3,800 one-time |
| JavaScript Support | Full Chromium | No |
| Setup | API call | Server installation |
| Video Recording | Yes | No |
| Screenshot API | Yes | No |
| PDF/A Compliance | No | Yes |
| CSS Print Support | Chromium | Excellent |
| Maintenance | Managed | Self-managed |
Key Differences
Pricing Model
Prince XML requires a $3,800 one-time license per server, plus annual maintenance fees. HTML2PDFAPI charges per conversion starting at $17/month with a free tier for testing.
JavaScript Support
Prince XML does not execute JavaScript. If your content includes React, Vue, or any dynamic JS, Prince won't render it. HTML2PDFAPI uses full Chromium for complete JS support.
CSS Print Features
Prince XML excels at CSS print specifications like @page rules, running headers/footers, and PDF/A compliance. It's the industry standard for publishing workflows.
When to Choose HTML2PDFAPI
- You have JavaScript-rendered content (SPAs, React, Vue)
- You want a managed cloud API with no infrastructure
- You need video recording or screenshot capabilities
- You prefer pay-per-use pricing
- You need quick integration without server setup
When to Choose Prince XML
- You need PDF/A compliance for archival
- You have static HTML with advanced CSS print requirements
- You're in publishing/print production workflows
- You need precise control over page layout and typography
Other Comparisons
See Use Cases
Full Chromium rendering, pay-per-use pricing
No upfront license fees. JavaScript support included.
Try It Free