1. Introduction
In our current digital age, the way we exchange and store information has evolved drastically. Gone are the days when signing a document required a pen and a physical paper. Digital signatures are the new norm – secure, convenient, and legally binding. At the heart of this process are PDF Signer tools.
1.1 Importance of PDF Signer tool
A PDF signer tool provides a secure and efficient method to affix signatures on important documents without the requirement of print-outs or physical presence. This is a significant game-changer in the corporate world, where contracts, agreements, etc., are signed frequently. The PDF signer tool not only helps to maintain an eco-friendly paperless office but also dramatically speeds up the process of document signing, reducing procedural delays. The enormity of its usability can be realized as it can be used by individuals, businesses, and public organizations alike.
1.2 Fix PDF Files
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1.3 Objectives of this Comparison
However, with a surge of PDF signer tools available in the market, it becomes an arduous task to identify which one to use. The purpose of this comparison is to assist users in making an informed decision by highlighting the advantages, disadvantages, and unique features of different popular PDF Signer tools. So whether you’re a freelancer, small business owner, or a large corporation, by the end of this guide, you’ll have a clear idea of what tool is best suited for your needs.
2. Adobe Acrobat Fill and sign a PDF
Adobe Acrobat Fill & Sign is part of the Adobe Acrobat suite, a product renowned for its robust PDF editing and management capabilities. The Fill & Sign tool makes it easier for users to fill out PDF forms and sign them using an intuitive, user-friendly interface. In addition, it is closely integrated with various Adobe services, providing a seamless workflow across all your PDF related tasks.
2.1 Pros
- Great usability: Adobe Acrobat Fill & Sign boasts a well-designed, intuitive interface that makes it easy to use, even for novices.
- Secure platform: With Adobe’s solid reputation in the market, users can trust the security measures implemented to protect their sensitive documents.
- Integration with Adobe services: It seamlessly integrates with other Adobe services like Adobe Document Cloud, adding to the convenience of managing PDFs.
- Mobile app: Adobe Acrobat Fill & Sign is available as a standalone mobile app, offering the flexibility to sign documents on the go.
2.2 Cons
- Pricey: Compared to other PDF signings tools, Adobe’s costs can be relatively high, particularly for small businesses or individuals.
- Signatures are not legally binding: Adobe Acrobat Fill and Sign does not meet the EIDAS requirement for Advanced Electronic Signatures, making the signatures less legally robust.
- High system requirements: Some users may find that Adobe software requires a lot of system memory, affecting the performance of their devices.
3. iLovePDF Sign PDF
iLovePDF Sign PDF is a free, web-based tool that allows users to add electronic signatures to their documents with just a few clicks. The iLovePDF suite also offers a variety of other tools to edit, convert, compress and manage PDF files, making it a multi-purpose solution for PDF needs.
3.1 Pros
- Web-based: As a web-based tool, iLovePDF offers the convenience of accessibility from any device without the need for downloads or installations.
- Free to Use: iLovePDF Sign PDF is free for usage, making it an excellent choice for users on a budget.
- Versatility: In addition to signing files, iLovePDF’s suite offers a wide array of PDF-related tools, providing a comprehensive solution for PDF management.
3.2 Cons
- Limitations on Free Version: While the service is free for usage, some advanced features are restricted to the premium version.
- Security and Privacy Concerns: Being a free, web-based tool, some users have concerns regarding the security and privacy of their documents, especially for sensitive files.
- Stability Issues: Some users have reported occasional crashes and stability issues during usage.
4. PDF Signer
PDF Signer from signfiles.com is a powerful desktop application designed for applying digital signatures on numerous documents swiftly. It provides a streamlined workflow that integrates with other services, particularly bulk signing for organizations requiring mass document signatures.
4.1 Pros
- Batch Processing: PDF Signer excels in batch processing, making it incredibly efficient for businesses that deal with volumes of documents requiring digital signatures.
- PFX and Certificates Support: The tool elegantly accommodates PFX files and digital certifications, offering an extra layer of security and authenticity to the signatures.
- High Level of Customization: With PDF Signer, users have a high degree of customization and control over how and where the signatures appear in the document.
4.2 Cons
- No Free Version: Unlike some of its competitors, PDF Signer doesn’t offer any free version, which could be a discouraging factor for users looking for cost-effective options.
- Complex Interface: Additonally, the interface of PDF Signer might be too complex for new users, especially those who are not accustomed to handling digital certificates and PFX files.
- Limited to PDF: Despite its strengths, it’s worth mentioning that PDF Signer is limited to PDF files only, and doesn’t support digital signing for other file formats.
5. Sejda PDF Desktop
Sejda PDF Desktop is a versatile PDF management suite that includes a powerful and user-friendly PDF signing tool. It provides a reliable platform for individuals and businesses to sign their PDF documents effortlessly on their desktop computers.
5.1 Pros
- Multiple Functionality: Apart from signing PDFs, Sejda PDF Desktop offers a broad scope of functionalities like editing, converting, merging, splitting, and compressing PDF files, making it a comprehensive PDF management solution.
- Both Desktop and Online Support: Sejda is accessible both as a desktop application and a web-based tool, enabling users to work flexibly from anywhere.
- Free Use Limits: Sejda allows a certain number of free uses per day, enabling people to utilize premium features without a full commitment.
5.2 Cons
- Usage Restrictions: The free version of Sejda PDF Desktop comes with restrictions on usage, size, and frequency that could limit its utility for constant heavy users.
- No Mobile App: Despite having both desktop and web versions, Sejda lacks a mobile app, which might not cater to users who need signature functionality on-the-go.
- Limited Advanced Editing Tools: Compared to some competitors, Sejda doesn’t offer advanced PDF editing and annotation tools, which might limit its appeal to some professional users.
6. Soda PDF
Soda PDF is a full-featured PDF tool, recognized as one of the most user-friendly and robust solutions in the market. Its advanced signing feature provides an efficient, secure and easy way to insert electronic signatures into documents, facilitating the streamlining of various digital processes.
6.1 Pros
- Versatility: Soda PDF offers a wide range of features beyond digital signing, including editing, converting, annotating, securing, and forms creation, proving to be a one-stop solution for many PDF-related tasks.
- Multi-platform Availability: It is available on Windows, as a web application and also as a mobile app, offering convenience and flexibility to users.
- User-friendly Interface: Soda PDF boasts a highly intuitive interface that makes it easy to navigate its comprehensive array of features, especially for beginner users.
6.2 Cons
- Cost: Soda PDF can be relatively expensive compared to other similar tools. The cost might be a barrier for individuals or small businesses with budget limitations.
- Occasional Lags: Some users have reported minor lags and stability issues, particularly with large files or intricate operations.
- Complex Installation Process: The installation process tends to be slightly lengthy and convoluted, which might deter some users.
7. KDK PDF Signer
KDK PDF Signer is a comprehensive tool specifically designed to add digital signatures to PDF files. This software focuses on providing a high level of encryption and security to its users. Users can digitally sign the PDF files, maintaining their integrity and demonstrating their authenticity.
7.1 Pros
- High Level of Security: KDK PDF Signer uses secure encryption to ensure that every signature is tamper-proof and documents remain confidential.
- Bulk Signatures: It allows users to sign multiple PDFs at the same time, promoting efficiency and productivity for high volume users.
- Support for Certified PDFs: The software can verify certified PDFs, making it easier for businesses and individuals working with authorized or sensitive documents.
7.2 Cons
- Lack of Other PDF Editing Features: KDK PDF Signer is a specific tool for PDF signing, but lacks the more extensive PDF management features like editing, annotating, or converting found in some other tools.
- No Mobile Application: Currently, KDK PDF Signer does not provide a mobile application, limiting its accessibility to desktop users only.
- Learning Curve: This software might have a slightly steeper learning curve, especially for users less familiar with encryption and digital certifications.
8. PDF24 Tools Sign PDF
PDF24 Tools Sign PDF is part of the PDF24 suite of tools, providing a quick and simple way to add signatures to your PDF documents. With a mission to make PDF manipulation as easy as possible, PDF24 has designed this user-friendly tool to deliver swift and secure signing processes.
8.1 Pros
- Web-based platform: Operating as a web-based tool, PDF24 can be accessed from any device, anywhere, without the need for downloading software.
- Free and Easy to Use: PDF24 offers its services free of cost. Its simple and intuitive layout reduces the learning curve for new users.
- Comprehensive Tools Suite: Your usage isn’t limited to signing PDFs; PDF24 provides a complete suite of tools for creating, editing, converting, and securing PDF files, making it a versatile choice.
8.2 Cons
- Internet Dependent: As a web-based application, PDF24 Tools Sign PDF requires an internet connection. This might give issues with speed and accessibility in low-internet environments.
- Lacks Advanced Features: Although user-friendly, the tool might fall short when it comes to advanced features found in some similar intricate software.
- Ad Supported: Being a free tool, PDF24 contains ads, which might be distracting for some users.
9. DigiSigner
DigiSigner is an online platform dedicated to providing easy, secure and legally binding electronic signatures. With DigiSigner, users can sign PDF documents digitally using a range of signature types, reducing the need for paper, pens and time-consuming meetings just to get a document signed.
9.1 Pros
- Legally Binding Signatures: DigiSigner employs advanced security measures to ensure signatures are legally binding, adding a layer of authenticity and reliability to your documents.
- User-Friendly Interface: With a clean and simple layout, DigiSigner makes the process of digital signing straightforward and intuitive, even for beginners.
- Multiple Signature Options: DigiSigner supports a variety of signature options including drawn signatures, typed signatures and uploaded signatures, bringing flexibility to the signing process.
9.2 Cons
- Limited Features in Free Version: The free version of DigiSigner comes with several limitations in terms of number of documents to sign per month, signature options and more.
- No Mobile App: The absence of a mobile application might limit its usage for users who prefer signing documents on-the-go.
- No Additional PDF Editing Tools: Unlike some competitors, DigiSigner is meant exclusively for PDF signing and lacks additional editing tools.
10. Xodo’s PDF Signature Tool
Xodo’s PDF Signature Tool is a part of Xodo’s comprehensive PDF software which accommodates all your PDF-related needs, from reading and editing to annotating and signing. The tool offers a simple and innovative way to sign documents digitally, bridging the gap between convenience and document security.
10.1 Pros
- Wide Range of Features: Xodo provides a comprehensive suite of features not only limited to signing. It includes PDF viewing, annotating, sharing, and collaboration tools.
- Cross-platform Availability: Xodo’s PDF Signature Tool is available on multiple platforms, including Android, iOS, Windows, and as a web app, offering flexibility of use.
- Free to Use: Despite its extensive set of features, Xodo’s PDF Signature Tool is available for free, making it an economical choice for many users.
10.2 Cons
- Lack of Guidance: Some users reported the lack of clear instructions or guidance within the app, which might make the learning curve steep for first-time users.
- Occasional Technical Glitches: As with many apps, users have reported occasional glitches and freezes, which might affect the user experience.
- Ads in Free Version: The free version of Xodo’s service incorporates ads that some users may find distracting.
11. PDFgear
PDFgear is a powerful, easy-to-use software that offers a suite of PDF editing tools, including an efficient PDF signer feature. It is designed to be intuitive and user-friendly, providing users with a convenient solution to manage their PDF needs.
11.1 Pros
- Multiple Functionality: PDFgear is not limited to just signing PDFs. It incorporates other PDF related utilities like editing, converting, merging, and more.
- Intuitive User Interface: The user interface of PDFgear is designed to be intuitive and user-friendly, making it easy for users to access and use the various tools and features.
- Efficient Performance: PDFgear claims to provide superior performance with minimal use of system resources, ensuring that documents are processed quickly and your device runs smoothly.
11.2 Cons
- No Mobile App: As of now, PDFgear lacks a mobile application version which restricts its usability for users who prefer working on mobile devices.
- Paid Software: Unlike some of its competitors, PDFgear doesn’t offer any free version of its software, which might hinder people looking for cost-effective PDF solutions.
- Limited Customer Support: Some users have reported that PDFgear’s customer support can be lacking, particularly for technical issues.
12. DocFly PDF Signer Tool
DocFly PDF Signer Tool is a component of the DocFly suite, a powerful online service that provides a complete set of tools to manipulate and manage PDF files. The signature tool facilitates easy and secure signing of PDF documents directly from your web browser, perfect for users who need a quick and accessible solution.
12.1 Pros
- Web-Based: As a web-based tool, DocFly PDF Signer Tool can be accessed from any device, wherever you are, without needing to install any software.
- Complete PDF Solution: It’s part of the DocFly suite which also offers other PDF features like converting, editing, and merging, making it an all-encompassing toolset for PDF needs.
- User Friendly: The software has an intuitive interface that makes the process straightforward even for non-tech-savvy users.
12.2 Cons
- Usage Restrictions: Although it has a free version, there are limits on the number and size of documents you can sign in the free tier, which could restrict heavy users.
- Internet Dependence: Being an online tool, it requires an internet connection to function, hence might not be ideal in situations where internet connectivity is unstable.
- Limited Advanced Security: While it does provide signature services, it might fall short in terms of advanced security options available in specialised signing tools.
13. Summary
13.1 Overall Comparison Table
| Tool | Features | Ease of Use | Price | Customer Support |
| Adobe Acrobat Fill and sign a PDF | Signature, Edit, Convert, Forms | High | High | Strong |
| iLovePDF Sign PDF | Signature, Convert | High | Free | Moderate |
| PDF Signer | Signature | Moderate | Moderate | Moderate |
| Sejda PDF Desktop | Signature, Edit, Convert | High | Moderate | Strong |
| Soda PDF | Signature, Edit, Convert, Forms | High | High | Strong |
| KDK PDF Signer | Signature | Moderate | Moderate | Moderate |
| PDF24 Tools Sign PDF | Signature, Convert | High | Free | Moderate |
| DigiSigner | Signature | High | Free and Paid versions | Moderate |
| Xodo’s PDF Signature Tool | Signature, Reading, Annotation | High | Free | Strong |
| PDFgear | Signature, Edit, Convert | High | High | Moderate |
| DocFly PDF Signer Tool | Signature, Edit, Convert | High | Free and Paid versions | Moderate |
13.2 Recommended Tool Based on Various Needs
After comparing multiple signatory tools, it’s evident that each product offers a unique blend of features, pricing structures and customer support levels. For users who prioritize a rich feature-set and strong customer support, Adobe Acrobat Fill & Sign PDF and Soda PDF are the standout choices. For budget-concerned users, iLovePDF Sign PDF, PDF24 Tools Sign PDF and Xodo’s PDF Signature Tool provide a robust range of services without a price tag. Users who need to sign large volumes of documents might find PDF Signer and KDK PDF Signer favourable for their batch processing capabilities.
14. Conclusion
14.1 Final Thoughts and Takeaways for Choosing a PDF Signer Tool
In the digital age, PDF Signer Tools have become an indispensable part of our day-to-day operations, providing us with a fast, secure, and efficient way to digitally sign documents. Therefore, the choice of a suitable tool depends mainly on the individual’s requirements and preferences. Be it affordability, user-interface, or advanced features, the selection will vary as per the demands.
It’s crucial to understand your specific needs before settling on a tool. If you’re an individual or small business primarily focused on convenience and cost, free tools like iLovePDF and PDF24 could suit your needs. For companies looking for professional-grade tools with a full set of PDF management features, Adobe Acrobat or Soda PDF might be ideal. For those who deal with large batches of documents, tools like PDF Signer and KDK PDF Signer can provide effective solutions.
In conclusion, the right PDF signer tool can accelerate workflow processes, secure digital transactions, and improve productivity. A careful consideration of the various options available will lead you to the right tool that’s tailored to your unique needs.
Author Introduction:
Vera Chen is a data recovery expert in DataNumen, which provides a wide range of products, including a great tool to repair Excel files.