Wednesday, January 8, 2025

8 Greatest PDF Editors I Discovered After Testing 20 Instruments

I’ve had my justifiable share of battles with PDFs. 

This one time, I wanted to edit a single typo in a PDF for a last-minute presentation. I believed, “how exhausting can it’s?” Nicely, two hours, three downloads, and far frustration later, I nonetheless wrestled with clunky software program and premium characteristic paywalls. Sound acquainted?

That’s after I determined sufficient was sufficient. I’ve tried dozens of finest PDF editors, testing the whole lot from important instruments to feature-packed apps. I’ve realized which of them do the job with out making you wish to throw your laptop out the window. And truthfully? A few of them are absolute lifesavers.

In the event you’ve ever struggled with PDFs, whether or not modifying, merging, changing, or simply making an attempt so as to add a signature, this listing is for you. I’ve rounded up one of the best PDF editors based mostly on my private experiences, so you’ll be able to spend much less time looking out and extra time doing issues.

8 finest PDF editors I attempted: My sincere opinion

PDF editors are my go-to instruments after I must work with PDFs past simply viewing them. They let me edit textual content and pictures so as to add feedback and annotations. One of the best PDF editors assist me rearrange, delete, or merge pages with ease. Some even let me convert PDFs into different file codecs, like Microsoft Phrase or Excel, which is a lifesaver after I must tweak a doc with out ranging from scratch.

How did we discover and consider one of the best PDF editors?

I spent weeks exploring numerous PDF editors, testing them for the whole lot from primary edits to complicated doc administration duties. I consulted with professionals and on a regular basis customers to see how these instruments carry out in real-world situations. I assessed whether or not they’re price your money and time by digging into their standout options and figuring out their largest flaws. Utilizing AI to research a whole lot of G2 opinions, I uncovered the commonest person wants and frustrations. Pairing that perception with G2’s Grid Reviews, I in contrast every instrument’s usability, options, and total worth. In any case this testing and analysis, I’ve compiled this listing of one of the best PDF editors.

For extra superior duties, I depend on PDF editors that supply options like optical character recognition (OCR) to make scanned paperwork editable and searchable. When safety’s a precedence, I flip to PDF editors with password safety and encryption choices. PDF editors make all of it doable, from filling out types and including e-signatures to collaborating on paperwork. If I must do one thing with a PDF, these instruments have me coated.

How I narrowed down one of the best PDF editors: My guidelines

Beneath are the components I thought of whereas testing and evaluating the PDF editor instruments.

  • Ease of use: I desire a PDF editor that doesn’t require a guide. The interface needs to be intuitive, with all of the important instruments accessible. I search for clear menus, easy navigation, and minimal pointless litter. A instrument with a steep studying curve is a purple flag for me. There are too many choices on the market to waste time on one thing sophisticated.
  • Modifying capabilities: For me, the first job of a PDF editor is to let me edit textual content, photographs, and different parts inside a PDF seamlessly. The editor ought to enable me to repair typos, change fonts, and rearrange layouts with out breaking the doc’s formatting. If it could possibly’t deal with these primary duties, it’s not price my time.
  • File conversion choices: Changing PDFs to different codecs like Phrase, Excel, or PowerPoint is a lifesaver when making main edits. I additionally search for instruments that convert completely different file sorts into PDFs with out shedding high quality. The conversion course of needs to be clean, and the output file needs to be clear and correct.
  • Optical character recognition: OCR is a game-changer for working with scanned paperwork. I typically cope with PDFs which are basically simply photographs of textual content, and a very good editor ought to be capable of acknowledge that textual content and make it editable or searchable. I additionally rigorously take a look at the accuracy of the OCR characteristic.
  • Annotation and collaboration: Annotation instruments are important when working with a group or reviewing paperwork. A PDF editor should let me spotlight textual content, add feedback, and draw shapes simply. Bonus factors if the editor helps real-time collaboration or permits me to share paperwork with others for seamless suggestions.
  • Safety: When working with delicate paperwork, I all the time search for instruments that supply password safety, redaction choices, and encryption. Some editors additionally let me signal paperwork electronically, which is a big plus for contracts and types. Realizing my recordsdata are safe offers me peace of thoughts.
  • Efficiency and velocity: A PDF editor needs to be fast and responsive, even when working with giant recordsdata or complicated paperwork. I get annoyed if the software program crashes or slows down throughout primary duties like modifying or saving. Efficiency is a deal-breaker for me.
  • Platform compatibility: I typically change between gadgets, so I search for editors that work throughout a number of platforms, resembling Home windows, macOS, iOS, and Android. Cloud-based options are nice as a result of they let me entry my recordsdata from wherever. Consistency throughout platforms is essential.
  • Superior options: I search for PDF modifying instruments that allow me deal with a number of recordsdata with batch processing and design interactive paperwork. Integration with cloud storage and productiveness instruments ensures seamless collaboration, whereas superior safety choices like redaction and digital certificates are must-haves for delicate recordsdata. Options like scripting, automation, and multimedia embedding add further performance, making these editors excellent for complicated duties.
  • Worth for cash: Worth issues, however so does worth. Free instruments are wonderful for fundamentals, however paid editors typically excel at superior duties like OCR and encryption. I weigh the price of one-time purchases towards subscriptions, checking for hidden charges and profiting from trials. A superb PDF editor ought to save effort and time, making it well worth the funding. One of the best choices steadiness affordability with performance, delivering long-term worth.

I spent weeks testing over 20 PDF editors based mostly on the standards that matter most to me. From ease of use and modifying capabilities to superior options like OCR, batch processing, and safety instruments, I evaluated how nicely every editor carried out in real-world situations. I transformed recordsdata, edited textual content, created types, added annotations, and examined integrations with cloud platforms. 

I additionally thought of worth for cash by evaluating free instruments, one-time purchases, and subscription fashions, searching for those who delivered constant high quality with out hidden charges. Any editor that crashed or lagged throughout primary duties didn’t make the reduce. In any case this hands-on testing, I narrowed the listing to the 8 finest PDF editors that excel in usability, performance, and total worth. These are the instruments I belief and advocate for anybody needing dependable PDF modifying options.

To be included within the PDF editor class, a product should:

  • Help modifying of textual content, photographs, and pages instantly inside PDFs
  • Present instruments to create new PDFs seamlessly throughout the platform
  • Embody options for annotating and signing PDFs effortlessly
  • Supply file conversion choices to and from numerous codecs
  • Allow password safety to safe PDF recordsdata

*This knowledge was pulled from G2 in 2025. Some opinions might have been edited for readability.  

1. Adobe Acrobat

I’ve spent loads of time with Adobe Acrobat, and if I needed to sum it up, I’d say it’s a powerhouse with a little bit of a persona downside. It’s full of options that may deal with absolutely anything you’d ever must do with a PDF, however it doesn’t all the time make it straightforward.

First, the modifying instruments are phenomenal. I can edit textual content, add or resize photographs, and even rearrange pages instantly within the PDF—no exporting or juggling a number of applications. And on the subject of conversions, it’s a lifesaver. Turning PDFs into Phrase, Excel, or PowerPoint recordsdata is so seamless that I barely even give it some thought anymore.

I can also’t dwell with out the OCR characteristic. I’ve taken scanned paperwork I believed have been misplaced causes and turned them into editable textual content in seconds. It’s saved me a lot time, particularly when coping with previous contracts and printed types.

The fillable types characteristic is one other standout. I’ve turned boring, static types into interactive ones that folks can fill out instantly on their gadgets. It’s made amassing suggestions or signatures ridiculously straightforward. And talking of signatures, the e-signature instrument is a gem. I can signal paperwork digitally with out printing a single web page.

adobe acrobat
The password safety and redaction instruments hold my delicate paperwork protected. I really like having the ability to lock down recordsdata or prohibit permissions so individuals can’t edit or copy them with out my permission. Relating to skilled touches, instruments for including watermarks, logos, and headers make my paperwork look polished each time.

Now, right here’s the place issues get a bit irritating for me. You’d assume that the interface for such a strong instrument could be intuitive. However no, even primary duties like merging PDFs or extracting pages take far more steps than they need to. After I first began utilizing it, I spent a lot time watching tutorials and digging via boards to determine get issues executed. It’s undoubtedly not essentially the most user-friendly expertise.

Efficiency is one other factor that bugs me. Adobe Acrobat generally is a severe useful resource hog, particularly when working with bigger recordsdata. There have been occasions when it slowed right down to a crawl or crashed in the midst of one thing necessary. And don’t even get me began on the updates. They’re not all the time automated, which has left me scrambling after I understand I’m out of sync whereas collaborating with others. It’s simply not as seamless as I’d prefer it to be.

Then there’s the subscription price. I imply, there’s a free model, however it’s so restricted that it barely scratches the floor. If you need modifying, signing, and safety, you’ve bought to pay up. 

Compatibility will also be hit and miss. I’ve had moments the place PDFs I created in Acrobat didn’t play properly with different software program, or recordsdata from different applications didn’t work as anticipated.

What I like about Adobe Acrobat:

  • I really like modifying textual content, rearranging pages, and even tweaking photographs instantly within the PDF with out changing recordsdata. The power to repair typos or replace a doc shortly has been a lifesaver for me.
  • Turning PDFs into Phrase, Excel, or PowerPoint recordsdata is ridiculously straightforward. It’s wonderful how correct the formatting stays, saving me from the effort of redoing the whole lot from scratch.

What G2 customers like about Adobe Acrobat:

“Adobe Acrobat is a tremendous instrument that enables me to create paperwork from scratch, edit current recordsdata, and convert any doc right into a PDF format. Moreover, the power to securely ship paperwork for distant signing is among the options I worth most. It’s a complete and dependable answer for managing all my paperwork effectively and safely.”

Adobe Acrobat Assessment, Trueway Title C.

What I dislike about Adobe Acrobat:
  • For such a strong instrument, it’s surprisingly not intuitive. Duties like merging or extracting pages really feel far more sophisticated than they need to, and I’ve needed to watch tutorials simply to determine issues out.
  • Adobe Acrobat can decelerate and even crash after I work with bigger recordsdata. This may be extremely irritating, particularly after I’m in the midst of an necessary undertaking with a good deadline.
What G2 customers dislike about Adobe Acrobat:

“Full entry to options necessitates a month-to-month or yearly subscription. The interface could also be too troublesome for individuals unfamiliar with altering PDFs. Perhaps prohibitive for small enterprises or lone customers.”

Adobe Acrobat Assessment, Abhishek U.

2. Foxit PDF Editor

In the event you work with PDFs every day, Foxit PDF Editor is likely to be your secret weapon.

The very first thing I seen was the extremely user-friendly interface. Whether or not you’re a newbie or a seasoned professional, the interface feels intuitive, with clear menus and simple workflows. Modifying textual content, rearranging pages, or inserting photographs is as straightforward because it will get. 

I really like this PDF editor’s feature-rich setting, which caters to just about each PDF want you’ll be able to think about. One standout characteristic is its file conversion capabilities. Whether or not it is advisable to convert Phrase, Excel, PowerPoint, or picture recordsdata to PDFs or go within the reverse course, Foxit PDF Editor handles it shortly and with spectacular accuracy. In contrast to some editors, it manages to protect most formatting, though extremely complicated layouts or tables can generally pose a problem. 

I respect this PDF modifying instrument’s OCR capabilities. It could possibly simply flip scanned or image-based paperwork into totally searchable and editable textual content. 

foxit pdf editor
I used to be impressed by the wide selection of superior modifying instruments Foxit PDF Editor gives. I may seamlessly modify textual content, substitute photographs, and manipulate web page layouts. 

Annotating PDFs is one other energy. I can spotlight textual content, add feedback, draw freehand, and even apply stamps to paperwork. These instruments make collaboration a breeze, particularly when paired with Foxit’s ConnectedPDF know-how, which permits a number of customers to work on the identical file and observe real-time modifications. This integration makes it superb for groups working remotely or in shared environments.

I really like how Foxit PDF Editor opens giant recordsdata like 500-page paperwork or high-resolution graphics and not using a sweat. I’ve come to depend on this degree of velocity and responsiveness, particularly when working with detailed reviews or visually complicated recordsdata. It’s optimized for multitasking, permitting a number of recordsdata to open with none noticeable slowdown.

I additionally like Foxit PDF Editor’s security measures, together with password safety, encryption, and redaction instruments that guarantee delicate info stays non-public. The digital signature characteristic totally complies with e-signature requirements, letting you securely signal and validate paperwork with out extra software program. That is significantly helpful for professionals in finance, authorized, or different fields that require rigorous doc authentication.

I didn’t just like the interface shade scheme. It’s unapologetically purple. Whereas it doesn’t have an effect on performance, I’d love an choice to customise it to higher go well with private preferences. Then there’s the licensing mannequin, which restricts you to a single machine per license. For customers like me, who steadily change between a desktop and a laptop computer, this may be irritating except you’re keen to buy extra licenses.

One other space the place Foxit PDF Editor may enhance is in file conversion accuracy. Whereas it does an admirable job more often than not, changing PDFs with intricate layouts, tables, or graphics into Phrase or Excel can often produce blended outcomes. Lastly, whereas uncommon, there are occasional minor bugs, like edits not saving correctly or surprising app crashes. These points don’t occur typically, however they will disrupt your workflow once they do.

What I like about Foxit PDF Editor:

  • I really like how intuitive and simple the interface is. Every little thing is precisely the place I count on it to be, so I don’t waste time trying to find instruments or options. It simply makes modifying and managing PDFs a lot simpler.
  • Foxit PDF Editor doesn’t lag, even with giant, graphics-heavy recordsdata. It feels clean and responsive after I juggle a number of recordsdata and tight deadlines.

What G2 customers like about Foxit PDF Editor:

“Foxit PDF Editor may be very strong and offers ample options for any measurement enterprise or particular person wants. The modifying and formatting instruments are straightforward to search out and really intuitive. I like how related that is to Adobe Professional. Our firm may be very pleased with Foxit PDF Editor after reviewing and testing. After I bumped into a difficulty, customer support was useful after I referred to as to repair the difficulty. There are such a lot of facets to nonetheless study and use and searching ahead to exploring extra. Foxit PDF Editor was very straightforward to put in and use immediately.”

Foxit PDF Editor Assessment, Kim R.

What I dislike about Foxit PDF Editor:
  • I discover it irritating that the license solely works on one machine. Switching between my desktop and laptop computer means I would like to purchase one other license, which feels unnecessarily restrictive.
  • Whereas file conversion is mostly good, it struggles with complicated layouts. After I convert PDFs with tables or intricate designs into Phrase or Excel, the formatting doesn’t all the time come out proper.
What G2 customers dislike about Foxit PDF Editor:

“Extra options have to be added to the app to make it extra full. If it had a cell app, I might give it full marks. I believe you want the power to extract textual content from photographs.”

Foxit PDF Editor Assessment, Billy S.

3. Adobe PDF Pack

You realize that second if you discover a instrument that simply will get the fundamentals proper? For me, that is Adobe PDF Pack.

One of many first issues I seen was how seamlessly I may convert numerous file sorts into PDFs and vice versa. Adobe PDF Pack handles the conversion whereas preserving the unique formatting, whether or not it is Phrase, Excel, PowerPoint, and even picture recordsdata. 

Modifying PDFs was once a trouble, however I can simply make modifications instantly throughout the doc with Adobe PDF Pack. It gives a complete set of instruments that cater to my wants, from modifying textual content to rearranging pages.

adobe pdf pack-1
The cloud storage characteristic ensures that every one my paperwork are accessible throughout gadgets, which is ideal for somebody consistently on the transfer. Sharing paperwork for evaluation or signature is easy, and the e-signature performance provides a layer of professionalism to my transactions.

I didn’t like how Adobe PDF Pack doesn’t help direct modifying of photographs or layouts inside current PDFs. Customers requiring such functionalities must improve to Acrobat Professional. I couldn’t flip paper paperwork into editable PDFs or fillable PDF types. The platform requires you to subscribe to Acrobat Professional for these functionalities. 

What I like about Adobe PDF Pack:

  • I really like how easy it’s to transform recordsdata with Adobe PDF Pack. Whether or not turning a Phrase doc right into a PDF or extracting a PDF again into an editable format, it’s quick and dependable, and the formatting stays excellent each time.
  • I can modify textual content and reorganize pages inside a doc with Adobe PDF Pack.

What G2 customers like about Adobe PDF Pack:

“Adobe PDF Pack has been my go-to answer for dealing with PDF recordsdata effectively. Its user-friendly interface makes duties like conversion, merging, and modifying a breeze. I significantly respect its seamless integration throughout gadgets, making certain I can entry my paperwork wherever I’m going. Whereas the subscription mannequin might not go well with everybody, it is a precious instrument for frequent PDF customers like myself that streamlines my workflow and saves me time.”

Adobe PDF Pack Assessment, Muskan N.

What I dislike about Adobe PDF Pack:
  • I discover it irritating that Adobe PDF Pack does not enable me to instantly edit photographs in a PDF. If I wish to make even minor changes, I’ve to improve to a dearer plan.
  • The dearth of options like OCR for scanned paperwork or the power to create fillable types makes it really feel incomplete. For something past the fundamentals, I’ve to depend on different instruments or software program.
What G2 customers dislike about Adobe PDF Pack:

“Adobe PDF Pack’s subscription price is on the upper facet, and its efficiency will be sluggish with giant paperwork. Regardless of these drawbacks, I’m happy with its different options, which contribute to environment friendly doc administration in my workflow.”

Adobe PDF Pack Assessment, Civic V.

Want software program to view paperwork, photographs, movies, audio recordsdata, and extra? Discover one of the best file reader software program.

4. Wondershare PDFelement

Let me stroll you thru my expertise with Wondershare PDFelement.

I really feel that the interface is a bit button-heavy, however it’s designed for energy customers. You’ve bought fast entry to the whole lot: textual content modifying, annotations, kind creation, and even batch processing.

The OCR characteristic blew me away. Wondershare PDFelement helps over 20 languages, together with English, Spanish, Chinese language, and Japanese. What’s spectacular is how precisely it converts scanned paperwork into totally editable PDFs whereas preserving the unique format. I’ve used it to digitize handwritten assembly notes and even previous printed types.

I additionally respect the AI-powered summarization instrument. Think about having a 50-page PDF and needing to shortly pull the important thing factors out. This characteristic generates concise summaries, saving me hours of studying and filtering via content material. It’s excellent for research-heavy duties.

wondershare pdf element

Wondershare PDFelement’s batch processing capabilities are one other lifesaver. I typically must convert a number of recordsdata from PDF to Phrase or Excel, and with PDFelement, I can queue up a batch of recordsdata and let it do the heavy lifting. It additionally works for making use of OCR to a number of paperwork, which is a big time-saver when digitizing archives.

I additionally love Wondershare PDFelement’s kind creation capabilities. You may design interactive types with checkboxes, radio buttons, and textual content fields. Plus, it could possibly acknowledge current kind fields in a scanned doc, making modifying and enhancing types a breeze.

The person interface, whereas feature-rich, can really feel overwhelming for first-timers. With so many choices accessible, it takes a little bit of exploration to determine the place the whole lot is.

I additionally felt that the software program will be gradual when dealing with very giant recordsdata or complicated paperwork with a number of photographs and layers. I’ve had a few cases the place it crashed whereas processing a very giant file.

The OCR characteristic, whereas typically glorious, can often misread poorly scanned or low-resolution paperwork. You may need to scrub up some formatting or manually appropriate misinterpret textual content.

What I like about Wondershare PDFelement:

  • It helps over 20 languages and might precisely convert scanned paperwork into editable PDFs whereas preserving the unique format. I take advantage of it to digitize previous notes and printed supplies, and it really works like magic more often than not.
  • AI-powered summarization is a lifesaver for lengthy paperwork. The instrument shortly extracts key factors, saving me hours of sifting via pages.

What G2 customers like about Wondershare PDFelement:

“My favourite a part of Wondershare PDFelement is the way it permits you to edit PDFs. Modifying PDFs, altering textual content, and inserting a picture are all straightforward. An excellent attribute is the OCR instrument which might convert the scanned doc into an editable file with zero errors. I additionally just like the batch processing of exporting many PDFs to Phrase or Excel without delay. It performs good with cloud platforms resembling Google Drive for straightforward collaboration and on-the-go entry to recordsdata.”

Wondershare PDFelement Assessment, Antalda C.

What I dislike about Wondershare PDFelement:
  • Whereas the software program is feature-rich, the variety of buttons can really feel overwhelming. It takes some effort to get aware of the place the whole lot is, and I want it had a extra streamlined design.
  • The software program generally slows down or crashes completely when working with very giant or complicated PDFs. It’s irritating, particularly after I’m in the midst of an necessary process.
What G2 customers dislike about Wondershare PDFelement:

“The issue I’ve with Wondershare PDFelement is that the Professional model solely has the superior options, which embrace OCR and batch processing. That may be limiting for groups that don’t wish to improve. Nevertheless the modifying instruments are glorious, however there are generally formatting issues if you work with extra complicated paperwork. Additionally, giant recordsdata are dealt with slowly by the software program, and that causes effectivity hit on us throughout busy occasions.”

Wondershare PDFelement Assessment, Piotr D.

5. UPDF

Let me share my expertise with UPDF, a flexible PDF editor that has considerably streamlined my doc administration duties.

One in every of UPDF’s standout qualities is its seamless performance throughout numerous platforms. Whether or not on Home windows, macOS, iOS, or Android, UPDF offers a constant and environment friendly expertise, permitting me to work on my PDFs anytime, wherever. 

I can effortlessly add, delete, or modify textual content inside my PDFs. The power to regulate font model, measurement, and shade ensures that my paperwork keep an expert look.

Managing photographs is intuitive with UPDF. I can insert new photographs, resize, crop, rotate, or substitute current ones, all via a user-friendly drag-and-drop interface. Including or modifying hyperlinks inside paperwork is easy, enhancing the interactivity of my PDFs.

I additionally discovered UPDF’s annotation instruments to be invaluable. I can spotlight textual content, underline, or strike via content material to emphasise key factors. Including feedback or suggestions is easy, facilitating efficient collaboration with colleagues. With entry to over 100 stamps and stickers, I can add visible cues that make the evaluation course of extra partaking.

updf
UPDF gives superior PDF modifying capabilities. I additionally love how the OCR characteristic transforms scanned paperwork into editable and searchable PDFs, supporting over 15 languages, which is especially helpful for working with various content material. 

UPDF gives a number of options to make sure doc safety. I can set passwords to limit entry to my PDFs, making certain solely approved people can view or edit the content material. Delicate info will be completely faraway from paperwork, safeguarding confidential knowledge. Including digital signatures to paperwork is easy, streamlining the approval course of.

I want UPDF performed nicer with different apps. As an example, it doesn’t combine nicely with instruments like Pacer, which makes it a little bit of a headache if you happen to depend on third-party software program for doc workflows. There’s no text-to-speech characteristic, which appears like a missed alternative. It will be tremendous useful, particularly for these lengthy PDFs the place I’d slightly pay attention than learn.

I’ve seen that sure actions lead to flattened recordsdata, which implies you lose layers or interactivity within the doc.

I additionally actually want UPDF had direct integration with common cloud storage platforms like Google Drive or Dropbox. I’ve to manually add or obtain recordsdata proper now, which appears like an additional step.

What I like about UPDF:

  • I really like that UPDF works seamlessly throughout Home windows, macOS, iOS, and Android. It means I can decide up the place I left off it doesn’t matter what machine I’m utilizing.
  • I just like the clear and user-friendly interface. Every little thing is precisely the place it needs to be, making modifying or managing PDFs straightforward.

What G2 customers like about UPDF:

“I respect the UI of the appliance. The performance/usability is nice. Most PDF editors have a reasonably commonplace characteristic set, and I discover UPDF not missing. The appliance runs easily and doesn’t bathroom down my system’s assets. I discover it an ideal substitute for Adobe, and I do not plan on returning.”

UPDF Assessment, Ok. Ok.

What I dislike about UPDF:
  • I miss having a text-to-speech characteristic. Listening to PDFs when multitasking or on the go could be wonderful.
  • The updates are a bit too frequent for my liking. Whereas it’s nice that they’re bettering issues, it could possibly interrupt my workflow after I’m in the midst of one thing.
What G2 customers dislike about UPDF:

“I wish to place digital bookmarks, as is finished on the Kindle. Perhaps it is necessary to have buyer help in Portuguese or Spanish.”

UPDF Assessment, Alexsandro B.

6. Smallpdf

Smallpdf is like having a digital multitool in your again pocket, whether or not compressing, changing, modifying, or signing paperwork.

Smallpdf does the fundamentals exceptionally nicely. Must convert a PDF to Phrase or a JPG to PDF? It’s tremendous easy, and the outcomes are normally spot-on. I’ve additionally used it to compress cumbersome PDFs with out compromising high quality, which is a big win when sharing recordsdata over electronic mail. And let’s speak about merging and splitting PDFs. Duties that used to really feel tedious now take just some seconds.

I really like how the interface is clear, easy, and extremely user-friendly. Even if you happen to’re not tech-savvy, you’ll discover it intuitive. I can shortly add a file, choose the instrument I would like, and do the whole lot in minutes. Plus, it’s all web-based, so I don’t should obtain one other app. That’s an enormous deal as a result of I hate cluttering my gadgets with software program I may not use every day.

smallpdf

One other characteristic I’ve grown to like is the e-signature instrument. It’s fast and legally binding, which implies I can deal with contracts with out printing a single sheet of paper. It additionally integrates cloud storage choices like Google Drive and Dropbox, so managing and sharing recordsdata is a breeze.

Whereas most of its file conversions are nice, I’ve seen that changing PDFs to Phrase paperwork doesn’t all the time protect the formatting completely. 

The free model is unbelievable for infrequent use, however if you happen to’re like me and want it repeatedly, the subscription is a must have. The pricing is affordable, however it’s one thing to contemplate if you happen to’re on a good finances.

Additionally, whereas the interface is generally flawless, I’d tweak some minor issues. As an example, when merging PDFs, the file names aren’t all the time totally seen, which makes organizing the order a bit cumbersome. On uncommon events, the instrument has struggled with very giant or complicated recordsdata, although it’s not a typical subject.

What I like about Smallpdf:

  • I really like that it’s a one-stop store for PDF duties: changing, merging, splitting, compressing, and even including e-signatures. Discovering a instrument that mixes so many options in a single place and does all of them nicely is uncommon.
  • I don’t must obtain or set up something, which is a big win. I can entry it from my desktop or telephone, and it integrates with cloud storage choices like Google Drive and Dropbox, making file administration seamless.

What G2 customers like about Smallpdf:

“This is a superb utility that simply reduces the file measurement of PDFs and converts them to Phrase paperwork. I additionally discovered the client help very empathetic and fast to resolve any usability points or suggestions. Total, I extremely advocate Smallpdf to all my family and friends. You need to use it wherever from cell and desktop.”

Smallpdf Assessment, Nidhi Y.

What I dislike about Smallpdf:
  • I didn’t just like the free model because it’s fairly restricted. You’ll want a subscription for normal or superior use.
  • When changing PDFs to Phrase, the formatting doesn’t all the time come out completely, particularly with complicated layouts. It’s annoying when I’ve to spend further time fixing it.
What G2 customers dislike about Smallpdf:

“Though this instrument helps changing a PDF file into numerous different file codecs, I’ve seen that the formatting generally turns into improper when changing right into a Phrase file. Moreover, whereas it could possibly convert PDF recordsdata to many different file sorts, it lacks the aptitude to transform different file codecs again to PDF, which I discover limiting when utilizing this software program.”

Smallpdf Assessment, Bikash P.

Want instruments for taking down notes in textual content format? Find out how word taking instruments may also help. 

7. FineReader PDF for Home windows and Mac

In the event you’re utilizing FineReader PDF for Home windows and Mac, you’ve bought many PDF modifying instruments at your fingertips. 

I’ve been capable of edit textual content, add annotations, merge recordsdata, and even lock my PDFs with passwords, all from one platform. It’s intuitive and user-friendly, so I didn’t really feel misplaced when tackling complicated duties like redacting delicate info or including digital signatures.

On the Mac, although, it’s a unique story. FineReader for macOS leans closely into OCR and file conversion, which it does phenomenally nicely. However if you happen to’re searching for these superior PDF modifying instruments—like modifying textual content instantly or working with types—you is likely to be dissatisfied. Personally, I discovered myself needing one other instrument to deal with these duties on my Mac.

finereader pdf

I respect FineReader’s OCR accuracy. It’s unbelievable at dealing with complicated layouts, like paperwork with tables or twin columns. For Home windows customers, the modifying options are an enormous bonus. I’ve used commenting and highlighting options to evaluation paperwork, they usually’ve saved me tons of time.

That mentioned, I’ve seen a recurring gripe amongst Mac customers. They need higher modifying instruments. I utterly perceive the frustration; the Mac model feels stripped down if you happen to’re used to Home windows-level options.

What I like about FineReader PDF for Home windows and Mac:

  • I really like that FineReader’s OCR know-how precisely captures even essentially the most complicated layouts, like twin columns and tables. It appears like magic when scanned paperwork flip into completely editable textual content and not using a hitch.
  • The flexibleness to transform PDFs into codecs like Phrase, Excel, and PowerPoint is a lifesaver for my workflow. It’s particularly useful when repurposing content material or extracting knowledge shortly.

What G2 customers like about FineReader PDF for Home windows and Mac:

“FineReader PDF’s OCR know-how is unparalleled. It could possibly precisely acknowledge textual content from scanned paperwork and pictures, supporting numerous languages.The software program offers a full suite of PDF instruments, together with modifying, commenting, evaluating paperwork, and changing recordsdata to numerous codecs (Phrase, Excel, and so on.).”

FineReader PDF for Home windows and Mac Assessment, Bakul J.

What I dislike about FineReader PDF for Home windows and Mac:
  • The Mac model feels barebones on the subject of modifying instruments. I can’t edit textual content instantly or work with types, which is irritating in comparison with the strong Home windows model.
  • When working with tabular knowledge, the popularity accuracy can falter. I typically discover myself manually fixing tables, which takes time and disrupts my workflow.
What G2 customers dislike about FineReader PDF for Home windows and Mac:

“Modifying desk constructions is non-intuitive. Coping with wrapped textual content in desk columns has been too troublesome for me once more this yr (second yr).”

FineReader PDF for Home windows and Mac Assessment, Mike M.

8. Nitro Professional

Nitro Professional has been my go-to software program for dealing with PDFs, and I need to say, it’s full of options that make it a powerful competitor to Adobe Acrobat.

I really like the user-friendly interface. In the event you’ve ever used Microsoft Workplace, the ribbon-style navigation will really feel like house. It’s intuitive and simple to navigate, with a minimal studying curve for primary duties. 

Nitro Professional excels in PDF creation and modifying. Whether or not I’m combining a number of recordsdata into one, including textual content, or annotating paperwork, it’s all extremely easy. The software program even lets me convert PDFs to Phrase, Excel, or PowerPoint codecs and vice versa with outstanding accuracy. The formatting normally stays intact, which is a big time-saver.

nitro pro

The QuickSign characteristic is a gem. I can add a digital signature and signal paperwork effortlessly. It is a lifesaver for somebody who steadily offers with contracts and agreements.

Nitro’s integration with Nitro Cloud is one other win. I can share recordsdata seamlessly and collaborate with others. It even gives some neat security measures, like password safety and the power to redact delicate info.

There’s a noticeable studying curve for superior options. The software program generally feels sluggish, particularly with giant recordsdata or when dealing with PDFs with a number of photographs. I’ve additionally encountered a couple of compatibility points with recordsdata created in different PDF instruments, which will be irritating.

Whereas the OCR characteristic is useful for scanned paperwork, it’s imperfect. It often struggles with complicated layouts or uncommon fonts, requiring guide tweaking.

Let’s additionally focus on updates. They’re rare and don’t all the time tackle lingering bugs. I’ve additionally skilled crashes when working with giant or complicated paperwork.

What I like about Nitro Professional:

  • The ribbon-style format is tremendous intuitive and feels identical to Microsoft Workplace. I didn’t should spend hours determining the place issues have been—it’s all proper the place you’d count on it to be.
  • I really like merging a number of PDFs, including or deleting pages, and changing recordsdata to and from codecs like Phrase and Excel. Plus, QuickSign makes signing paperwork a breeze.

What G2 customers like about Nitro Professional:

“I like combining a number of paperwork into one; that is simply achievable and assists with sending assembly info and publishing our parish journal. I’ve additionally been capable of edit the PDFs considerably, erasing what must be hidden, hiding black marks when books have been scanned, and deskewing paperwork to offer a professional-looking finish end result. I take advantage of the software program practically each day in my work as an administrator. It’s straightforward to make use of.”

Nitro Professional Assessment, Sandie F.

What I dislike about Nitro Professional:
  • Nitro Professional tends to decelerate and even crash when working with bigger PDFs or recordsdata with heavy graphics. It’s irritating after I’m in a rush.
  • Whereas primary duties are straightforward, determining superior instruments like OCR or automation workflows took trial and error. I want there have been higher tutorials or guides constructed into the software program.
What G2 customers dislike about Nitro Professional:

“The requirement to steadily check in is irritating, although I’ve just lately realized utilizing a license key can mitigate this subject.”

Nitro Professional Assessment, Efe W.

Click to chat with G2s Monty-AI

PDF editors: Often requested questions (FAQs)

1. Which PDF editor is one of the best?

From my hands-on testing and expertise, one of the best PDF editors are Adobe Acrobat, Foxit PDF Editor, and Adobe PDF Pack.

2. How will you edit a PDF totally free?

You may edit a PDF totally free utilizing on-line instruments like Adobe Acrobat, Smallpdf, or through the use of Google Docs to transform the PDF into an editable format. Some desktop apps additionally supply primary PDF modifying options.

3. What’s the finest free PDF editor?

One of the best free PDF editors are Foxit PDF Editor, pdfFiller by airSlate, and Wondershare PDFelement.

4. How do you edit in a PDF editor?

To edit in a PDF editor, open the PDF, choose the textual content or object you wish to modify, and use the modifying instruments to make modifications, resembling including, deleting, or formatting textual content, photographs, or annotations.

5. How a lot does a PDF editor price?

PDF editors vary from free to premium choices like Adobe Acrobat Professional, which prices as much as $30/month, or $100–$160 for one-time purchases like Nitro Professional.

Decide one of the best PDF editor that works for you

After making an attempt out a wide range of PDF editors, I’ve realized that one of the best instrument is determined by your wants. In the event you’re searching for superior options like OCR, detailed modifying, or collaboration instruments, premium choices are price contemplating, particularly if you happen to work with PDFs repeatedly. They’re highly effective and environment friendly however can include the next price ticket.

For primary duties like merging, splitting, or annotating PDFs, free or budget-friendly instruments get the job executed surprisingly nicely. In the event you solely want occasional edits or don’t wish to spend a lot, there are many easy and intuitive choices accessible.

In the end, it’s about discovering the suitable steadiness between options and value. Whether or not you’re dealing with complicated initiatives or simply tweaking the occasional doc, there’s a PDF editor on the market that’s excellent on your workflow and finances.

Must convert a doc to a unique file kind? Discover one of the best file converter software program choices.


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