Adobe Acrobat has long been the industry standard for PDFs, offering robust features like redaction, archiving, and integrations that make it a mainstay in legal, financial, and government workflows. But for many users, including students, freelancers, educators, or teams that just need fast markup and simple edits, Acrobat’s pricing and complexity can be more than they need.
Fortunately, there’s now a wide field of alternatives. Whether you want a tool that works offline, supports stylus input, offers real-time collaboration, or skips the subscription model entirely, there are modern options designed around how people work today.
This guide highlights 10 of the best Acrobat alternatives in 2025, and helps you find the one that fits your workflow best.
Drawboard PDF is built for anyone who works better by marking things up directly, whether that’s engineers redlining site drawings, teachers annotating assignments, students organizing class notes, or designers sketching feedback. It’s especially powerful for stylus and tablet users who need a natural pen-to-paper feel and want real-time collaboration baked into their workflow. From architecture to academia, Drawboard PDF gives teams and individuals the tools to review, comment, and sync files seamlessly across Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, and the web.
While it’s best known in the AEC world for tools like calibrated measurement and pressure-sensitive inking, its flexibility makes it just as useful for education, legal, and business settings. Features like Store+Share (plus third-party integrations with SharePoint, Google Drive, OneDrive, and Dropbox) enable live multi-user annotations, while OCR, redaction, form handling, and audio comments make it a complete review platform, not just a markup layer. And because it’s built to fit on-the-go workflows, you don’t have to worry about versioning or lost edits across devices.
Compared to high-end Adobe Acrobat, which leans desktop-heavy and favors asynchronous reviews, Drawboard PDF offers a lighter, more tactile experience that keeps teams moving for less. It’s designed for fast, clear feedback, whether that’s on a construction site, in a classroom, or across a design sprint.
G2: ★★★★☆ (4.3/5) – Based on 38 reviews
Capterra: ★★★★⯨ (4.8/5) – Based on 8 reviews
Foxit PDF Editor is a popular Acrobat alternative for teams that rely on secure, feature-rich PDF workflows, without the enterprise-level cost. It’s especially popular with legal, finance, and HR teams who need precise editing, redaction, and built-in compliance that scales. With desktop and web access by default, and mobile tools included in the Editor+ plan, it supports hybrid workforces that operate across devices and document systems.
For high-volume editing, Foxit includes OCR, Smart Redact for batch redactions, PDF comparison, and automation tools like Action Wizard. Editor+ adds eSignature envelopes and cloud storage, while the optional AI Assistant can summarize or rewrite content to speed up reviews. Admins get SSO, usage controls, and integrations with platforms like SharePoint and Salesforce, making it more convenient for IT-led deployments.
Compared to Acrobat, Foxit’s interface is lighter but less modern, especially on macOS, where performance lags behind Adobe’s native app. AI and full eSign access also require add-ons, while Adobe bundles those more tightly. It’s also built for asynchronous collaboration and offers limited markup, so it’s not an in-the-field contender.
Still, for teams who need efficient, workflow-based editing tools, predictable pricing, and versatile deployment, Foxit PDF Editor is a capable, cost-efficient choice.
G2: ★★★★☆ (4.6/5) – Based on 3160 reviews
Capterra: ★★★★☆ (4.5/5) – Based on 944 reviews
Gartner: ★★★★☆ (4.6/5) – Based on 35 reviews
Nitro PDF Pro is designed for professionals who already work in Microsoft Office and want a PDF solution that feels familiar. Its ribbon-style layout suits legal, finance, and administrative teams who rely on structured workflows like contract review, invoice processing, and redaction. With ABBYY-powered OCR and batch tools, it handles high-volume document work with speed and precision.
For teams focused on compliance and control, Nitro includes audit-grade redaction, Microsoft 365 integration, and optional access to Nitro Sign for template-driven eSignature workflows. The Standard and Plus tiers support macOS and iOS as well as Windows, but Nitro does not offer Android support or real-time collaboration. Touch support is also limited. On mobile, it behaves more like a mouse than a true pen-friendly app.
While Nitro does offer a $250 one-time license for Windows users, that version lacks future updates and cross-platform support. It also lacks Acrobat’s tighter eSignature integration and broader cross-device polish, and users have noted lag with large files and slow support response times.
Still, if you just need compliant, repeatable, and Office-style workflows, Nitro remains a steady but rigid Acrobat alternative.
G2: ★★★★☆ (4.3/5) – Based on 332 reviews
Capterra: ★★★★☆ (4.3/5) – Based on 561 reviews
Gartner: ★★★★☆ (4.6/5) – Based on 7 reviews
Wondershare PDFelement is built for users who need a smart, time-saving PDF editor without the complexity of Adobe Acrobat. Its Word-style layout makes editing, converting, and organizing documents easy to learn, while the AI Sidebar helps speed through tasks like summarizing contracts, translating text, or rewriting dense content, making it ideal for consultants, educators, and small teams.
PDFelement includes OCR, batch tools, form creation, and 20 GB of cloud storage. Flexible plans let you choose between annual, multi-year, or one-time licenses, though perpetual options only cover the current version, so you may need to buy a new version in 2-3 years. Business plans also add admin controls and SSO for managed deployments, but lack the depth of features Adobe offers.
The trade-offs are in collaboration and mobility. Real-time editing isn’t supported, mobile features (especially markup) are limited unless you buy the multi-platform plan, and AI usage is capped unless you pay for more tokens.
Compared to Acrobat, PDFelement is simpler and more affordable, but lacks its polish, signature workflows, and cloud-first design.
G2: ★★★★☆ (4.5/5) – Based on 823 reviews
Capterra: ★★★★☆ (4.4/5) – Based on 438 reviews
Gartner: ★★★★☆ (4.6/5) – Based on 7 reviews
PDF-XChange Editor is a Windows desktop-only PDF editor built for users who value a wide range of tools, fast editing, and a low barrier of entry. It’s built for power users thanks to its deep editing tools, fast OCR, JavaScript automation, and reliable form creation. The free version unlocks about 70% of the toolkit, with watermark restrictions on premium features, while the paid Editor and Editor Plus plans offer full access.
With support for document comparison, redaction, dynamic stamps, and even Bates numbering, PDF-XChange offers reasonable power at a fraction of Adobe’s price. Its lightweight footprint makes it fast even on older machines, and there’s no need to commit to a subscription. But like many perpetual tools, licenses only cover the current version. Major upgrades require repurchasing or “annual maintenance plans,” which extend your updates for an additional 1-2 years.
That trade-off, combined with its Windows-only access and dated interface, makes PDF-XChange a less practical option for teams working across multiple device types, including Mac, mobile, or the web. It also lacks real-time collaboration, and its dense UI can be overwhelming for casual users.
For solo power users on Windows, it’s a cost-effective Acrobat alternative, but limited for modern team workflows.
G2: ★★★★☆ (4.6/5) – Based on 142 reviews
Capterra: ★★★★☆ (4.5/5) – Based on 256 reviews
Smallpdf is a cloud-based PDF editor designed to simplify common tasks like converting files, filling forms, or reducing file sizes. Its web-first approach appeals to students, freelancers, and office users who need quick tools without installing heavy software. With 30+ functions, ranging from PDF conversion and compression to redaction and page organization, it covers most basic document needs through an accessible interface.
The Pro plan adds OCR, batch processing, strong compression, and access to all AI-powered tools like PDF summarization, translation, and document chat. A Windows-only desktop app allows for offline editing, while mobile apps support scanning and basic markup. Smallpdf also integrates built-in eSignature tools for simple workflows, though users handling complex agreements or bulk signing may find the options limited.
There is no real-time collaboration, no support for stylus-based editing, and deeper content editing (like rewriting paragraphs or layout control) is minimal compared to advanced editors.
In summary, Smallpdf focuses on accessibility and ease of use rather than depth. For users who mostly work in browsers and need reliable, task-specific tools, it offers a convenient alternative to full-featured suites like Adobe Acrobat.
G2: ★★★★☆ (4.6/5) – Based on 294 reviews
Capterra: ★★★★☆ (4.6/5) – Based on 902 reviews
Xodo Pro is a lightweight, cloud-accessible PDF editor built for users who want standard editing and markup tools without the bulk or pricing of an enterprise suite. With apps available across Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, and web, it offers one of the broadest platform footprints on the market, making it a practical option for individuals and small teams working across devices.
There are three primary plans: the Web plan enables browser-based editing and annotation; PDF Studio adds full desktop functionality, including OCR, redaction, and form creation; and the Document Suite combines all versions into one subscription with mobile access and sync support. Basic eSign workflows are available through Xodo Sign (powered by EverSign), though full signing automation requires a separate subscription.
Compared to Drawboard PDF or Adobe Acrobat, Xodo prioritizes simplicity over precision or collaboration; users looking for real-time editing or stylus-optimized workflows will need to look elsewhere.
While it isn’t designed for complex team reviews or markup-heavy workflows, Xodo Pro covers the essentials well at a lower cost, making it a good fit for casual editing and personal document handling.
G2: ★★★★☆ (4.4/5) – Based on 36 reviews
Capterra: ★★★★☆ (4.4/5) – Based on 58 reviews
Sejda PDF is a browser-based and offline-accessible editor built for users who want to handle everyday PDF tasks without overpaying for unused features. With tools for editing, compressing, splitting, merging, OCR, and form creation, it suits students, freelancers, and professionals working across Windows, macOS, and Linux. Its task-focused layout is easy to navigate, and paid plans unlock higher file sizes, batch processing, and longer task times.
The platform supports over 40 tools, including unique options like splitting by text or bookmarks, adding Bates numbering, and flattening forms. It’s accessible through mobile and tablet web browsers, but doesn’t have a native app for anything except desktop. Sejda also lacks real-time collaboration, stylus support, and AI features, and its editing is limited to basic layout and text adjustments, without full document reflow or paragraph-level control.
Sejda PDF stands out for accessibility, affordability, and simplicity at the cost of limited advanced functions and on-the-go support. For users who value a clear interface and offline flexibility over AI or team features, it’s a solid Acrobat alternative.
G2: ★★★★☆ (4.4/5) – Based on 37 reviews
Capterra: ★★★★⯨ (4.7/5) – Based on 48 reviews
Tungsten Power PDF is built for organizations that prioritize data security and internal control over cloud convenience. With support for on-premises deployment, SCIM provisioning, and SSO integration, it’s a strong fit for legal, government, and financial institutions that need to keep sensitive files within closed networks. Its perpetual license model appeals to teams that prefer one-time purchases and long-term installations, though updates and support are not included without added cost.
The Advanced and Business editions include compliance features like redaction, Bates numbering, PDF/A archiving, and side-by-side comparison. A LAN-based “Collaborate” mode enables multiple users to review files from a shared drive, though it lacks the real-time sync or remote access of cloud-first tools. Power PDF also includes an AI Copilot in its Business tier, but only for customers who provide their own OpenAI or Azure API key.
Compared to Adobe Acrobat, Power PDF trades convenience for control. It’s less mobile-friendly, limited on macOS, and stylus support is minimal, making it a tougher fit for teams that depend on markup precision or cross-device workflows like those supported by Drawboard PDF.
G2: ★★★★☆ (4.3/5) – Based on 59 reviews
Capterra: ★★★★☆ (4.5/5) – Based on 242 reviews
PDF Expert is an Apple-native PDF editor built for individuals who work across Mac, iPad, and iPhone. With a clean design and fast performance, it’s especially popular among students, consultants, and educators who want an intuitive, offline-capable PDF tool that syncs across Apple devices. The interface is optimized for Apple Pencil and trackpad gestures, with iCloud and third-party storage support built in, but it doesn’t offer Drawboard PDF’s best-in-class inking.
The premium version unlocks full text and image editing, file conversion, OCR in over 20 languages, and a beta AI Copilot that offers summarization, translation, and Q&A. It also supports form filling, redaction, and simple eSignatures. Collaboration is limited to file sharing—real-time markup and multi-user workflows are not available.
PDF Expert’s single subscription covers all Apple platforms, but there’s no support for Windows, Android, or web-based access. Compared to Acrobat, it feels lighter and faster, but lacks the enterprise feature set, compliance tools, and platform versatility.
The $139.99 lifetime license covers Mac only and excludes major updates or mobile access. For most users, the $79.99/year subscription is required for the full experience, and the price often increases after that first year.
Overall, PDF Expert is a strong fit for solo users in the Apple ecosystem, but less viable for cross-device teams or formal business workflows.
G2: ★★★★⯨ (4.7/5) – Based on 29 reviews
Capterra: ★★★★☆ (4.5/5) – Based on 59 reviews
Each of these Acrobat alternatives brings something different to the table, whether it’s affordability, better mobility, or offline access. But Drawboard PDF stands out for its modern, tactile approach to working with documents. With real-time collaboration, stylus-friendly markup, and seamless syncing across all platforms, it’s built for professionals who think visually and need their feedback to move just as fast.
If Acrobat feels like more than you need, or just not quite the right fit, Drawboard PDF offers a smarter, more flexible way to work with your documents.
Get started with the free Basic plan and experience a faster, more affordable way to edit, review, and collaborate on PDFs.
Adobe Acrobat has long been the industry standard for PDFs, offering robust features like redaction, archiving, and integrations that make it a mainstay in legal, financial, and government workflows. But for many users, including students, freelancers, educators, or teams that just need fast markup and simple edits, Acrobat’s pricing and complexity can be more than they need.
Fortunately, there’s now a wide field of alternatives. Whether you want a tool that works offline, supports stylus input, offers real-time collaboration, or skips the subscription model entirely, there are modern options designed around how people work today.
This guide highlights 10 of the best Acrobat alternatives in 2025, and helps you find the one that fits your workflow best.
Drawboard PDF is built for anyone who works better by marking things up directly, whether that’s engineers redlining site drawings, teachers annotating assignments, students organizing class notes, or designers sketching feedback. It’s especially powerful for stylus and tablet users who need a natural pen-to-paper feel and want real-time collaboration baked into their workflow. From architecture to academia, Drawboard PDF gives teams and individuals the tools to review, comment, and sync files seamlessly across Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, and the web.
While it’s best known in the AEC world for tools like calibrated measurement and pressure-sensitive inking, its flexibility makes it just as useful for education, legal, and business settings. Features like Store+Share (plus third-party integrations with SharePoint, Google Drive, OneDrive, and Dropbox) enable live multi-user annotations, while OCR, redaction, form handling, and audio comments make it a complete review platform, not just a markup layer. And because it’s built to fit on-the-go workflows, you don’t have to worry about versioning or lost edits across devices.
Compared to high-end Adobe Acrobat, which leans desktop-heavy and favors asynchronous reviews, Drawboard PDF offers a lighter, more tactile experience that keeps teams moving for less. It’s designed for fast, clear feedback, whether that’s on a construction site, in a classroom, or across a design sprint.
G2: ★★★★☆ (4.3/5) – Based on 38 reviews
Capterra: ★★★★⯨ (4.8/5) – Based on 8 reviews
Foxit PDF Editor is a popular Acrobat alternative for teams that rely on secure, feature-rich PDF workflows, without the enterprise-level cost. It’s especially popular with legal, finance, and HR teams who need precise editing, redaction, and built-in compliance that scales. With desktop and web access by default, and mobile tools included in the Editor+ plan, it supports hybrid workforces that operate across devices and document systems.
For high-volume editing, Foxit includes OCR, Smart Redact for batch redactions, PDF comparison, and automation tools like Action Wizard. Editor+ adds eSignature envelopes and cloud storage, while the optional AI Assistant can summarize or rewrite content to speed up reviews. Admins get SSO, usage controls, and integrations with platforms like SharePoint and Salesforce, making it more convenient for IT-led deployments.
Compared to Acrobat, Foxit’s interface is lighter but less modern, especially on macOS, where performance lags behind Adobe’s native app. AI and full eSign access also require add-ons, while Adobe bundles those more tightly. It’s also built for asynchronous collaboration and offers limited markup, so it’s not an in-the-field contender.
Still, for teams who need efficient, workflow-based editing tools, predictable pricing, and versatile deployment, Foxit PDF Editor is a capable, cost-efficient choice.
G2: ★★★★☆ (4.6/5) – Based on 3160 reviews
Capterra: ★★★★☆ (4.5/5) – Based on 944 reviews
Gartner: ★★★★☆ (4.6/5) – Based on 35 reviews
Nitro PDF Pro is designed for professionals who already work in Microsoft Office and want a PDF solution that feels familiar. Its ribbon-style layout suits legal, finance, and administrative teams who rely on structured workflows like contract review, invoice processing, and redaction. With ABBYY-powered OCR and batch tools, it handles high-volume document work with speed and precision.
For teams focused on compliance and control, Nitro includes audit-grade redaction, Microsoft 365 integration, and optional access to Nitro Sign for template-driven eSignature workflows. The Standard and Plus tiers support macOS and iOS as well as Windows, but Nitro does not offer Android support or real-time collaboration. Touch support is also limited. On mobile, it behaves more like a mouse than a true pen-friendly app.
While Nitro does offer a $250 one-time license for Windows users, that version lacks future updates and cross-platform support. It also lacks Acrobat’s tighter eSignature integration and broader cross-device polish, and users have noted lag with large files and slow support response times.
Still, if you just need compliant, repeatable, and Office-style workflows, Nitro remains a steady but rigid Acrobat alternative.
G2: ★★★★☆ (4.3/5) – Based on 332 reviews
Capterra: ★★★★☆ (4.3/5) – Based on 561 reviews
Gartner: ★★★★☆ (4.6/5) – Based on 7 reviews
Wondershare PDFelement is built for users who need a smart, time-saving PDF editor without the complexity of Adobe Acrobat. Its Word-style layout makes editing, converting, and organizing documents easy to learn, while the AI Sidebar helps speed through tasks like summarizing contracts, translating text, or rewriting dense content, making it ideal for consultants, educators, and small teams.
PDFelement includes OCR, batch tools, form creation, and 20 GB of cloud storage. Flexible plans let you choose between annual, multi-year, or one-time licenses, though perpetual options only cover the current version, so you may need to buy a new version in 2-3 years. Business plans also add admin controls and SSO for managed deployments, but lack the depth of features Adobe offers.
The trade-offs are in collaboration and mobility. Real-time editing isn’t supported, mobile features (especially markup) are limited unless you buy the multi-platform plan, and AI usage is capped unless you pay for more tokens.
Compared to Acrobat, PDFelement is simpler and more affordable, but lacks its polish, signature workflows, and cloud-first design.
G2: ★★★★☆ (4.5/5) – Based on 823 reviews
Capterra: ★★★★☆ (4.4/5) – Based on 438 reviews
Gartner: ★★★★☆ (4.6/5) – Based on 7 reviews
PDF-XChange Editor is a Windows desktop-only PDF editor built for users who value a wide range of tools, fast editing, and a low barrier of entry. It’s built for power users thanks to its deep editing tools, fast OCR, JavaScript automation, and reliable form creation. The free version unlocks about 70% of the toolkit, with watermark restrictions on premium features, while the paid Editor and Editor Plus plans offer full access.
With support for document comparison, redaction, dynamic stamps, and even Bates numbering, PDF-XChange offers reasonable power at a fraction of Adobe’s price. Its lightweight footprint makes it fast even on older machines, and there’s no need to commit to a subscription. But like many perpetual tools, licenses only cover the current version. Major upgrades require repurchasing or “annual maintenance plans,” which extend your updates for an additional 1-2 years.
That trade-off, combined with its Windows-only access and dated interface, makes PDF-XChange a less practical option for teams working across multiple device types, including Mac, mobile, or the web. It also lacks real-time collaboration, and its dense UI can be overwhelming for casual users.
For solo power users on Windows, it’s a cost-effective Acrobat alternative, but limited for modern team workflows.
G2: ★★★★☆ (4.6/5) – Based on 142 reviews
Capterra: ★★★★☆ (4.5/5) – Based on 256 reviews
Smallpdf is a cloud-based PDF editor designed to simplify common tasks like converting files, filling forms, or reducing file sizes. Its web-first approach appeals to students, freelancers, and office users who need quick tools without installing heavy software. With 30+ functions, ranging from PDF conversion and compression to redaction and page organization, it covers most basic document needs through an accessible interface.
The Pro plan adds OCR, batch processing, strong compression, and access to all AI-powered tools like PDF summarization, translation, and document chat. A Windows-only desktop app allows for offline editing, while mobile apps support scanning and basic markup. Smallpdf also integrates built-in eSignature tools for simple workflows, though users handling complex agreements or bulk signing may find the options limited.
There is no real-time collaboration, no support for stylus-based editing, and deeper content editing (like rewriting paragraphs or layout control) is minimal compared to advanced editors.
In summary, Smallpdf focuses on accessibility and ease of use rather than depth. For users who mostly work in browsers and need reliable, task-specific tools, it offers a convenient alternative to full-featured suites like Adobe Acrobat.
G2: ★★★★☆ (4.6/5) – Based on 294 reviews
Capterra: ★★★★☆ (4.6/5) – Based on 902 reviews
Xodo Pro is a lightweight, cloud-accessible PDF editor built for users who want standard editing and markup tools without the bulk or pricing of an enterprise suite. With apps available across Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, and web, it offers one of the broadest platform footprints on the market, making it a practical option for individuals and small teams working across devices.
There are three primary plans: the Web plan enables browser-based editing and annotation; PDF Studio adds full desktop functionality, including OCR, redaction, and form creation; and the Document Suite combines all versions into one subscription with mobile access and sync support. Basic eSign workflows are available through Xodo Sign (powered by EverSign), though full signing automation requires a separate subscription.
Compared to Drawboard PDF or Adobe Acrobat, Xodo prioritizes simplicity over precision or collaboration; users looking for real-time editing or stylus-optimized workflows will need to look elsewhere.
While it isn’t designed for complex team reviews or markup-heavy workflows, Xodo Pro covers the essentials well at a lower cost, making it a good fit for casual editing and personal document handling.
G2: ★★★★☆ (4.4/5) – Based on 36 reviews
Capterra: ★★★★☆ (4.4/5) – Based on 58 reviews
Sejda PDF is a browser-based and offline-accessible editor built for users who want to handle everyday PDF tasks without overpaying for unused features. With tools for editing, compressing, splitting, merging, OCR, and form creation, it suits students, freelancers, and professionals working across Windows, macOS, and Linux. Its task-focused layout is easy to navigate, and paid plans unlock higher file sizes, batch processing, and longer task times.
The platform supports over 40 tools, including unique options like splitting by text or bookmarks, adding Bates numbering, and flattening forms. It’s accessible through mobile and tablet web browsers, but doesn’t have a native app for anything except desktop. Sejda also lacks real-time collaboration, stylus support, and AI features, and its editing is limited to basic layout and text adjustments, without full document reflow or paragraph-level control.
Sejda PDF stands out for accessibility, affordability, and simplicity at the cost of limited advanced functions and on-the-go support. For users who value a clear interface and offline flexibility over AI or team features, it’s a solid Acrobat alternative.
G2: ★★★★☆ (4.4/5) – Based on 37 reviews
Capterra: ★★★★⯨ (4.7/5) – Based on 48 reviews
Tungsten Power PDF is built for organizations that prioritize data security and internal control over cloud convenience. With support for on-premises deployment, SCIM provisioning, and SSO integration, it’s a strong fit for legal, government, and financial institutions that need to keep sensitive files within closed networks. Its perpetual license model appeals to teams that prefer one-time purchases and long-term installations, though updates and support are not included without added cost.
The Advanced and Business editions include compliance features like redaction, Bates numbering, PDF/A archiving, and side-by-side comparison. A LAN-based “Collaborate” mode enables multiple users to review files from a shared drive, though it lacks the real-time sync or remote access of cloud-first tools. Power PDF also includes an AI Copilot in its Business tier, but only for customers who provide their own OpenAI or Azure API key.
Compared to Adobe Acrobat, Power PDF trades convenience for control. It’s less mobile-friendly, limited on macOS, and stylus support is minimal, making it a tougher fit for teams that depend on markup precision or cross-device workflows like those supported by Drawboard PDF.
G2: ★★★★☆ (4.3/5) – Based on 59 reviews
Capterra: ★★★★☆ (4.5/5) – Based on 242 reviews
PDF Expert is an Apple-native PDF editor built for individuals who work across Mac, iPad, and iPhone. With a clean design and fast performance, it’s especially popular among students, consultants, and educators who want an intuitive, offline-capable PDF tool that syncs across Apple devices. The interface is optimized for Apple Pencil and trackpad gestures, with iCloud and third-party storage support built in, but it doesn’t offer Drawboard PDF’s best-in-class inking.
The premium version unlocks full text and image editing, file conversion, OCR in over 20 languages, and a beta AI Copilot that offers summarization, translation, and Q&A. It also supports form filling, redaction, and simple eSignatures. Collaboration is limited to file sharing—real-time markup and multi-user workflows are not available.
PDF Expert’s single subscription covers all Apple platforms, but there’s no support for Windows, Android, or web-based access. Compared to Acrobat, it feels lighter and faster, but lacks the enterprise feature set, compliance tools, and platform versatility.
The $139.99 lifetime license covers Mac only and excludes major updates or mobile access. For most users, the $79.99/year subscription is required for the full experience, and the price often increases after that first year.
Overall, PDF Expert is a strong fit for solo users in the Apple ecosystem, but less viable for cross-device teams or formal business workflows.
G2: ★★★★⯨ (4.7/5) – Based on 29 reviews
Capterra: ★★★★☆ (4.5/5) – Based on 59 reviews
Each of these Acrobat alternatives brings something different to the table, whether it’s affordability, better mobility, or offline access. But Drawboard PDF stands out for its modern, tactile approach to working with documents. With real-time collaboration, stylus-friendly markup, and seamless syncing across all platforms, it’s built for professionals who think visually and need their feedback to move just as fast.
If Acrobat feels like more than you need, or just not quite the right fit, Drawboard PDF offers a smarter, more flexible way to work with your documents.
Get started with the free Basic plan and experience a faster, more affordable way to edit, review, and collaborate on PDFs.
We are a PDF and collaboration company. We believe that creating more effective connections between people reduces waste.
Our best work has been overtaken by busywork. That’s why we’ve created ways to help people get back to working wonders without any paper in sight.
Drawboard PDF lets you mark up and share with ease, and Drawboard Projects brings collaborative design review to architecture and engineering teams.
At Drawboard, we work our magic so our customers can get back to working theirs.
We are a PDF and collaboration company. We believe that creating more effective connections between people reduces waste.
Our best work has been overtaken by busywork. That’s why we’ve created ways to help people get back to working wonders without any paper in sight.
Drawboard PDF lets you mark up and share with ease, and Drawboard Projects brings collaborative design review to architecture and engineering teams.
At Drawboard, we work our magic so our customers can get back to working theirs.
