Discover best PDF readers, including free and paid options, such as PDF.net, Adobe Acrobat Reader, Foxit PDF Reader, and more.

PDF readers let you open and view PDFs exactly as they were created. Unlike web browsers and word processors, they keep the fonts, images, and formatting intact across operating systems and devices.

In this guide, we will introduce you to the best PDF readers, both free and paid, and examine their key features, as well as pros and cons. By the end, you will be able to make an informed choice about the tool that suits you best.

PDF.net, which is fully browser-based and incredibly intuitive, is one of the best PDF readers for students, freelancers, professionals, and small businesses.

Adobe Acrobat, Foxit, Xodo, PDFX-Change, and SumatraPDF offer software for opening and editing PDF files.

When selecting a PDF reader, you should look for customization options, easy upload options, and the capacity to load long PDFs quickly.

Compared to web browsers and word processors, PDF readers are more accurate, include better built-in tools, and process files faster.

Best PDF Readers Compared: Overview of Top 10 Tools

Let’s examine the top ten PDF readers you should consider:

 is one of the best PDF tools for opening and viewing documents online, especially when you are in a hurry; you just need to have a reliable Internet connection. The platform 

doesn’t require a subscription to read PDFs online

. However, if you want to download your files, you will need to choose a plan.

That said, you can choose from the following pricing plans:

If you are reading PDFs with sensitive information, rest assured that they will stay safe; PDF.net uses 

HTTPS connections and deletes your data shortly after processing

. For peace of mind, the tool even allows you to 

Here are some of the key features that you can enjoy with on this PDF viewer:

Support for opening large files without lag

Option to search for specific words or phrases

Page thumbnails panel to look through long PDFs easily

Wide set of PDF editing tools and AI features, such as 

However, as every tool, PDF.net has its pros and cons. Here’s a quick overview:

 students, freelancers, contractors, professionals in small teams, 

 who want to read PDFs online without having to overcome a steep learning curve or spend a lot of money on subscription will love this browser-based platform.

This is a free PDF viewer developed by the creator of 

, unless you want to use other features like their AI assistant. Also, if you are a mobile user, there is an app that you can download to 

Adobe Acrobat Reader offers several features, including:

, sizes, and line spacing to improve readability

Continuous scrolling and single-page view options

Support for bookmarks and table of contents links inside PDFs

Of course, aside from advantages, this PDF reader comes with certain drawbacks. Here’s a quick summary:

If you regularly view or review PDFs and 

prefer using offline software over an online option

, then Adobe Acrobat Reader is a good option. It is also suitable if you often 

. The PDF reader itself is free, however, other options, like editing, signing, and secure file sharing might require a subscription.

Aside from the above mentioned features, Foxit offers:

Integrations with Microsoft Teams and Salesforce

Compatibility with Windows 10 and 11 and macOS 10.15 to 14

Option to deploy the software at scale using Foxit’s MSI installer

Now, let’s take a quick look at Foxit PDF Reader’s pros and cons:

, with features like integrations and deployment support. Nevertheless, it’s still one of the best free PDF software if you need basic PDF viewing.

cloud-based platform for viewing and editing PDFs

, with more than 100 million users worldwide.

With this tool, you can choose between four pricing plans, including 

It comes with several handy features, which depend on the plan, such as:

Safe sharing with options to authenticate recipients

However, it's important to weigh in all factors before you decide on the best PDF reader for yourself. Here’s a quick overview of DocuHub’s pros and cons:

If you are already using Gmail, Google Drive, Google Classroom, or other

DocHub is a convenient and cost-effective option for viewing and editing PDFs.

, including Windows, Mac, and Linux, since it's available online and offline. Also, it supports multiple languages, such as English, Chinese, German, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Portuguese, and Spanish.

Xodo PDF reader is free if you only use it to open PDF files. However, to use other tools, such as filling out 

 or applying e-signatures, you will need to choose a pricing plan:

Now, let’s take a look at Xodo’s pros and cons:

reading PDFs online in languages other than English

Also, if you are a business owner reviewing invoices, contracts, and proposals daily, you will like this platform for its security.

can be used online or as an app on tablets and phones

offers several subscription plans, including 

Some of Wondershare PDFelement’s key features include:

feature with options to set the reading range, voice, volume, and speed

Light mode, dark mode, and eye-protection mode for reading in various conditions

Option to customize the page layout (e.g., single page, two page, scrolling, split view)

Option to resize the page for a comfortable reading experience

However, as every tool, Wondershare PDFelement has its advantages and disadvantages. Here’s a short overview:

Overall, this PDF reader is an excellent choice if you want 

On the other hand, this is Wondershare’s 

. In addition to opening and viewing documents, it allows you to

Tools for highlighting, underlining, striking through, and 

 only available for Windows 11/10/8/7 (64-bit).

 That said, let’s take a quick look at its pros and cons:

If you are a student or professional who doesn't handle high volumes of documents but still wants a 

comfortable reading experience without the premium price tag, 

PDF-XChange was incorporated in 1997 and has established itself as one of the top names in the PDF industry. The 

 version starts at $62, but you can also upgrade to the 

10 Best PDF Readers: Full Guide With Free & Paid Options

Compare Adobe Sign vs. DocuSign in features, security, pricing, and integrations. Decide which e-signature platform is best for your needs.

Adobe Sign vs. DocuSign is a common comparison as e-signatures become essential for workflows. Organizations, businesses, and freelancers need secure platforms for signing documents electronically, especially with the rise of remote and global work.

When it comes to these two platforms, Adobe Sign is ideal for teams already using Adobe Acrobat or needing professional-grade features. On the other hand, DocuSign works well for SMBs and enterprises seeking a scalable solution.

In this article, we break down each platform’s features, security, pricing, ease of use, and integrations, so you can choose the one that suits your needs best.

Adobe Sign allows you to sign PDFs and share forms for others to sign via secure links; the platform comes with integrations and automations to streamline your workflow.

DocuSign’s e-signature platform offers the same capabilities as Adobe, plus more advanced routing and authentication options.

Both Adobe Sign and DocuSign can be used on mobile devices and ensure security and legality under the ESIGN Act, UETA, and eIDAS.

You should choose Adobe Sign if your team is already working in Adobe’s ecosystem or needs enterprise-level capabilities.

DocuSign is better if you are seeking an affordable, scalable e-signature setup with broader integration options.

Adobe Sign, now officially known as Acrobat Sign, is an 

e-signature solution that lets you send, sign, and share PDFs easily

The platform’s electronic signature tools can be used on Microsoft Word, Teams, Workday, Salesforce, etc., so you won’t have to switch back and forth between tabs. You can also store signed PDFs in Box, Dropbox, Google Drive, and OneDrive if you don’t want to use the built-in Adobe Document Cloud.

Acrobat Sign allows you to automate your workflows by using APIs or by routing your documents in the right order. There are options for assigning roles, like signer, approver, acceptor, form filler, and delegator, and setting up reminders and notifications to control the entire process.

Adobe Sign works on any device, including mobile phones and tablets, which means you can manage your e-signatures anywhere, even on the go. The platform’s ease of use remains the same, whether you are applying a signature, tracking 

, UETA, and eIDAS by authenticating users’ identities, certifying documents’ integrity, and logging users’ acceptance or acknowledgment of documents. It encrypts assets at rest with AES 256-bit and uses HTTPS TLS v1.2 to protect them during processing.

The platform focuses on small teams with up to ten members and comes in two plans:

Now, let’s look at Acrobat Sign’s pros and cons:

 with 1.7 million customers worldwide. It is also used by 

You can connect the platform’s signing workflow with countless systems and tools; Salesforce, Workday, SAP, Oracle, Microsoft, Google, and Zoom, to name a few. There are also open APIs that you can use to integrate with existing ecosystems.

 with DocuSign’s intuitive drag-and-drop interface. Moreover, options for setting serial, parallel, conditioning, mixed, or delayed routing, as well as assigning roles and managing reminders, notifications, and real-time updates, let you automate your workflow easily.

There is a DocuSign app that you can download on both iOS and Android devices for creating, signing, and sending documents. Aside from the app, you can also use DocuSign on your mobile browser without worrying about lags or crashes.

DocuSign uses AES 256-bit encryption and is 

, SSAE 16, SOC 1 Type 2, and SOC 2 Type 2 certified. Plus, it is PCI DSS compliant and authorized at the FedRAMP Moderate Impact Level. All documents are tamper-sealed with PKI and accompanied by both an audit trail and a certificate of completion.

There are four pricing plans for you to choose from:

Choosing the right plan depends on whether you prioritise affordability, collaboration tools, or enterprise-level automation. To help you weigh the trade-offs, here’s a quick comparison of DocuSign’s key advantages and potential drawbacks:

Adobe Sign vs. DocuSign: Head-to-Head Comparison

To decide which is the best e-signature software, let’s compare Adobe Sign vs. DocuSign 

in terms of features, security, pricing, ease of use, and integrations.

Adobe Sign lets you create reusable, fillable forms and share them with one or multiple signers at once via 

. When they are viewed or signed, you will receive notifications, and there will also be an audit trail for tracking every action taken. Plus, the platform has three authentication methods—the Adobe ID, Acrobat Sign ID, and SSO—ensuring the 

Furthermore, your forms can be branded with elements, like logos and taglines, and they can even be 

. If your forms were scanned or created in Microsoft Word or Excel, you can use Adobe Sign to convert them into the PDF format for sharing and collecting signatures.

DocuSign provides many of the same capabilities. You can create PDF forms and brand them by changing the colors and adding logos or slogans. After you share them, individually or in bulk, there will be real-time updates and an audit trail. You can also control what others are allowed to do within your e-signature workflow.

Unlike Adobe Sign, there is no direct option to post signable forms on websites. DocuSign does, however, offer more advanced routing options: serial, parallel, conditioning, mixed, or delayed. Additionally, it supports a wider range of authentication methods to 

: email-based, knowledge-based, access code, SMS code, phone code, federated identity verification, etc.

, which is an FIPS-approved cryptographic algorithm for protecting electronic data, and provide certifications. Adobe Sign uses PKI to 

, while DocuSign provides certificates of completion, including 

Moreover, you can configure Adobe Sign and DocuSign to meet local and regional regulations, such as Health Information Protection Act (HIPAA) and FDA CFR 21 Part 11 in the U.S., and the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) in the EU when used under the appropriate enterprise plans and agreements. As for 

, Adobe Sign is authorized at the Tailored Level, while DocuSign is authorized at the Moderate Impact Level.

Adobe Sign offers two plans at $23.99 and $29.99. DocuSign, by contrast, has three pricing tiers—$10, $25, and $40. With both platforms, you have the option to contact the sales teams for a custom package. The free trial for Adobe Sign lasts 14 days, whereas DocuSign’s extends to 30.

When it comes to value, DocuSign tends to be more cost-friendly for small businesses, while Adobe Sign appeals more to mid-size companies and enterprises.

, but the latter’s learning curve is not as steep

 On DocuSign’s e-signature page, there is a detailed walkthrough of how to use the platform. You can also look at resources from 

harder to navigate, especially if you are a first-time user or not too tech-savvy. However, since it has been around for a long time, it is easy to find YouTube tutorials from others. 

Having options for integrations is essential for streamlining workflows; that’s why 

Adobe Sign and DocuSign offer plenty of them

. Here are some platforms and tools that you can connect with on both platforms:

Adobe Sign or DocuSign’s e-signing functionality into your existing ecosystem. Beyond that, DocuSign lets you build extension apps for deeper customization.

Adobe Sign vs. DocuSign: A Short Overview

Now, let’s recap our e-signature software comparison to help you decide on the best way to sign documents online.

You should choose Adobe Sign if your team is 

It is more convenient and cost-effective because everything connects seamlessly, and the learning curve won’t get in your way.

Adobe Sign is also the better option if you are 

seeking enterprise-level e-signature capabilities and PDF management. 

Its tools are built to handle high volumes of documents and complex processes.

, cloud storage services, project management tools, and more. Therefore, it is easy to adopt across different departments and business sizes.

can rely on DocuSign. A few names featured in DocuSign’s 

are Vestwell, Sojern, Calendly, AstraZeneca, and Cox Automotive.

PDF.net - A Simple Alternative for E-Signing PDFs

If you just want a simple, streamlined solution for signing PDFs electronically, PDF.net is the perfect option. 

 is fully browser-based, so you don’t have to download anything. You can use it without registering for an account first, and all tools are available for you to try.

, and download the signed PDF. Everything works online and in just a couple of minutes. PDF.net is loved by small teams, businesses, and freelancers who need a fast, fuss-free way to 

When it comes to the choice between Adobe Sign vs. DocuSign, think about what matters most to your workflow. Adobe Sign is the better fit if you work heavily with PDFs or already use Adobe’s tools, while DocuSign is ideal if you want broader integrations and a setup that scales across different platforms. However, if you aren’t part of a team and just need to occasionally sign PDFs securely, you can use PDF.net.

as long as you meet the requirements of the ESIGN Act and UETA, or eIDAS in the EU. These regulations give electronic signatures the same legal standing as 

. You need to purchase an Acrobat Pro or Acrobat Studio plan, which is $23.99 and $29.99, respectively. However, you can

 if it is sent from an official DocuSign domain

 and relates to a document you are expecting. You might receive a DocuSign email for signing forms or for verifying your identity before signing with an authentication code.

#4. Can I integrate these tools with Google Drive or Office 365?

Adobe Sign and DocuSign with Google Drive and Office 365. This allows you to pull documents directly and send them for signing without switching between platforms.

Best Way to Sign Documents Online: 7 Top PDF Signing Tools

Differences Between Electronic & Digital Signature + Usage Tips

Adobe Sign vs. DocuSign: Which E-Signature Platform Is Better?

You can send something in PDF form as attachments or links via email, cloud storage, messaging apps, file transfer solutions, etc.

through email, cloud storage services, messaging apps, secure transfer solutions, video conferencing apps, and project management platforms

. Generally, they will be shared as attachments or links.

PDF is a widely used format, mainly because it preserves layouts and maintains compatibility across devices. It is excellent for both professional and personal use; however, sharing it incorrectly can expose you to cyberthreats.

Follow along as we explain the six methods to send PDFs in more detail. We will also provide tips to help you send fully polished, professional documents, regardless of the method you use.

There are six ways you can send something in PDF form: emailing, creating a shareable link from your cloud storage service, messaging it, using a secure file transfer solution, sharing it during a conferencing call, or attaching it to a project management platform.

You should send documents as PDFs because this format preserves your content’s layout and is secure, compatible with most devices, accessible, stable, and ATS-friendly.

To send professional PDFs, you should polish them, compress them, name them properly, remove unnecessary restrictions, and test them on another device beforehand.

How to Send Something in PDF Form: Step-by-Step Guide

, you can use email, cloud storage services, messaging apps, specific PDF sending options, video conferencing apps, and project management platforms. Let’s take a closer look at each option.

email PDF files using Gmail, Outlook, Yahoo Mail, etc.

The specific steps will vary a bit depending on the platform you are on, but in general, you will attach the PDF to an email message, wait a few seconds for it to load fully, and then press 

. The size limit for the three common email providers we just mentioned is up to 25MB.

This is a simple way to share PDF files, especially for corporate professionals 

who are wary about accidentally exposing important information, as email providers feature the tool for sending notifications when the recipient is outside the organization before sending.

; a study in 2020 found that there is an email breach roughly 

. To ensure secure PDF sharing, you should consider encrypting and password-protecting your documents.

. You can do so on Google Drive, Dropbox, and OneDrive.

You add your recipients’ email addresses to the documents and grant access.

You create a link that provides access and then send it to your recipients.

remember to control the PDF permissions carefully

; think about what you want your recipients to be able to do; can they 

Sending something in PDF form through cloud storage services is recommended if it is difficult for you to 

Moreover, your recipients don’t necessarily have to 

 or system crashes due to heavy resource usage. This is additionally convenient if they are on mobile devices, as downloading might not work or take a lot of time.

Using cloud storage services to send PDFs online is especially great for professionals who are in certain enterprise ecosystems

, such as Google Workspace, Dropbox Business, or OneDrive for Business. They can streamline their workflow by sending, receiving, and organizing PDFs all in one place.

Popular messaging apps that support PDF file transfers include Telegram, WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, and Viber. These typically include an 

 function, indicated by a plus or a paperclip icon that you can click and then upload your document.

This method is suitable if you are on a phone or a tablet

; however, it is not the best way to send something in PDF form, especially if the document is large. It can take longer to load, and these messaging apps usually have lower file size limits:

2GB to 4GB per file, depending on your plan

: If you are using the apps on a desktop device, you can also drag and drop your PDF file in the chat/conversation.

There are several PDF sending solutions that you can avail of, including Box, ShareFile, and FileCloud. To choose a suitable one, consider the level of access control that you need, the file size limits, the ease of use, and your budget.

can be worth it if you often have to send sensitive documents 

in PDF form. If you are a part of an organization, a protocol with platforms that prioritize security will help you minimize risks while also appearing more professional and reliable to clients.

Video conferencing apps that you can use to send something in PDF form include 

In their chat panels, it is possible to attach a document and send it to others on the call. Usually, there is an 

button; some interfaces will also allow you to drag and drop the PDF in.

This sharing method is useful if you want everyone to be on the same page

 when talking about a particular document. The size limits vary by platform and the plan you have. On Zoom, your PDF can be up to 1GB, and in Microsoft Teams, it is 100MB.

#6. Attaching to Project Management Platforms

send documents as PDFs is via project management platforms like Slack, Monday.com, ClickUp, and Trello.

With Slack, you can drag and drop files into the message field or click the 

 icon to select them from your storage. Ten files can be sent at once, with each file up to 10GB in size.

On Monday.com, you can add your PDF to an 

 card via the paper clip icon or upload it to the 

, which can be accessed by everyone in your team.

Similarly, files can be attached to ClickUp’s 

 file. It is also possible to share PDFs in the comments (

You should send documents as PDFs because this format:

 and can be opened on most devices without requiring specific software

for those who rely on assistive technologies

with embedded elements like hyperlinks, comments, and audio

If your document is not already in this format, it is easy to convert it to a PDF for sending; our PDF editor can help you do this in just a few clicks.

PDF Features

10 Best PDF Readers: Full Guide With Free & Paid Options

Adobe Sign vs. DocuSign: Which E-Signature Platform Is Better?

How to Send Something in PDF Form: Easy Methods

How to Draw on PDFs: Add Shapes, Notes & Sketches Online

How to Create a Link to a PDF: A Step-by-Step Guide

Is Adobe Acrobat Worth It in 2025? Pros, Cons & Alternatives

Top 5 Adobe Acrobat Alternatives for Small Businesses in 2025

Extract Images From PDFs: 3 Quick Ways to Save Visuals

How to Save ChatGPT Conversation as PDF: 3+ Simple Methods

What Are PDF Tags: A Beginner’s Guide to Accessible PDFs