Head-to-head · October 2026
PDF Embedder vs Search Modal Block
PDF Embedder comes out ahead, winning 6 of 7 head-to-head checks against Search Modal Block.
PDF Embedder
Upload PDF files and embed them directly into your site’s posts and pages, as simply as adding images. Each…
Search Modal Block
The Search Modal Block enhances your WordPress site with a modern, popup search interface that’s both…
| Metric | PDF Embedder | Search Modal Block |
|---|---|---|
| Active installs | 300K+ | 70+ |
| Downloads (30 days) | 41.3K | 108 |
| Download trend | -51.5% | +1.9% |
| Rating | 4.7/5 | 5/5 |
| Reviews | 526 | 3 |
| Health score | 77/100 | 60/100 |
| Last updated | 2 months ago | 4 months ago |
| Tested up to | WP 7.1.3 | WP 7.0.7 |
| Support resolved | 0% | — |
| Requires PHP | 7.4+ | 7.4+ |
| First released | Jan 2015 | Nov 2024 |
Daily downloads, last 90 days
PDF EmbedderSearch Modal Block
Choose PDF Embedder if…
You care most about active installs, downloads (30 days) and reviews.
- Proven at scale on 300K+ active sites
- Loved by users — 4.7/5 from 526 reviews
- Tested with the latest WordPress (7.1)
Choose Search Modal Block if…
You care most about download trend.
- Small user base (70+ active installs)
- Very few reviews so far
Both compete in: block
FAQ
PDF Embedder vs Search Modal Block: quick answers
Straight answers, pulled from live WordPress.org data.
Live data from WordPress.org · checked Oct 17, 2026
Which is better, PDF Embedder or Search Modal Block?
PDF Embedder comes out ahead, winning 6 of 7 head-to-head checks against Search Modal Block. Choose PDF Embedder if you care most about active installs, downloads (30 days) and reviews. Choose Search Modal Block if you care most about download trend.
Is PDF Embedder more popular than Search Modal Block?
PDF Embedder is the more popular of the two with 300K+ active installs, compared with 70+ for Search Modal Block.
Can I use PDF Embedder and Search Modal Block together?
Both plugins cover block, so most sites only need one. Running two plugins that do the same job can cause conflicts and slow your site down — pick the one that fits best and remove the other.
Are PDF Embedder and Search Modal Block free?
Yes. Both are free to download from the official WordPress.org plugin directory. Either may also offer paid upgrades from its developer.
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