PDFgear has carved out a niche as a free, lightweight PDF editor with enough tools to handle the basics. It lets users highlight, edit text, manage pages, run simple OCR, and convert documents without needing an account. For quick fixes and casual use, it’s a convenient option, especially for occasional users and anyone on a strict budget.
But many users, particularly businesses and on-the-go professionals, hit PDFgear’s ceiling quickly. It lacks features like real-time collaboration, pressure-sensitive markup, admin tools, and deeper capabilities like redaction. It’s also controversial, with a number of users expressing concerns over the true cost of a “free” program that uses ChatGPT’s costly API to let users interact with their PDFs using AI.
If you’ve found yourself needing more control, better annotation tools, or peace of mind about where your data goes, there are strong alternatives worth considering.
The tools below offer a range of options—from pen-accurate editing to AI-powered summaries to enterprise-grade security—so you can choose the right fit based on how you actually work with PDFs.
If you’ve hit the limits of PDFgear’s basic editing tools, Drawboard PDF is a natural next step, especially if you rely on markup, handwriting, or reviewing files across devices. Designed for fluid annotation, Drawboard PDF offers best-in-class inking, shape recognition, and a pen-on-paper feel that works seamlessly with a stylus but remains intuitive for mouse and touch users.
Unlike PDFgear’s static, single-user workflow, Drawboard PDF supports real-time collaboration through Store + Share (Drawboard’s own cloud), plus third-party syncing with SharePoint, OneDrive, Google Drive, and Dropbox. You can open the same file on different devices, sync changes instantly, and work alongside others in the same document. Pro plans include OCR for scanned documents, full-document redaction, hyperlinking, and calibrated measurement tools. These features are especially valuable for professionals working with complex or sensitive content.
Additional tools like multi-window comparison, annotation history, and reusable templates give power users more control without complicating the experience. Everything is available across Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and modern web browsers with a consistent and responsive interface.
Drawboard PDF combines strong markup capabilities with clean design, flexible pricing, and enterprise features you won’t find in most lightweight editors. It’s a compelling upgrade for users who need more hands-on features and advanced workflows, or who want more control over privacy and future costs than PDFgear’s model allows for.
G2: ★★★★☆ (4.3/5) – Based on 38 reviews
Capterra: ★★★★⯨ (4.8/5) – Based on 8 reviews
“Super useful for uni work and research… It has become one of my most used applications.”
— Drawboard PDF user testimonial
“One of the best writing/drawing programs for writing and saving PDFs. Loaded with a ton of features in a quick access menu and bigger menu if needed.” — Sarah H., SourceForge review
“Drawboard PDF offers a smooth and professional experience in annotating and editing PDF documents; it's very versatile and easy to take notes, draw free-form shapes, underline and even write directly and accurately on my PDFs with the stylus on my tablet's touch screen.” — Education user, G2
“Drawboard allows us various editing options including writing notes, adding comments, annotating with multiple colors and highlighting text. Most of the essential features are available in the free version of the software. The UI is great and it also supports dark mode. The feature of adding blank pages to an existing PDF is very useful.” — Simran S., G2 user
Adobe Acrobat remains the benchmark for secure and standards-compliant PDF workflows, especially in industries where regulatory requirements are non-negotiable. Legal teams, government agencies, and financial institutions rely on Acrobat Pro for its certified e-signatures, redaction logs, Bates numbering, and support for long-term archival formats like PDF/A. Its deep integration with Microsoft 365, SharePoint, and enterprise identity systems makes it a trusted option for large-scale deployment.
While PDFgear covers the basics of editing, OCR, and conversion, Acrobat goes several layers deeper. Its Pro plan includes advanced OCR with text recognition across multiple languages, automatic form field detection, and in-depth PDF comparison. Adobe Sign, available as a separate subscription, adds secure e-signatures with full audit trails and cloud-based routing. Acrobat also provides superior optimization tools for compressing files without sacrificing fidelity, which PDFgear’s desktop version lacks.
That said, Acrobat’s power comes with a learning curve and a steeper cost. The interface remains menu-heavy and best suited to desktop environments, which may feel dated or dense for users looking for simplicity. Features like redaction and form creation require the Pro plan, and Adobe Sign or AI tools must be purchased separately. For basic editing or casual review, Acrobat may be more than you need. But for enterprise, non-markup use, it remains unmatched.
G2: ★★★★⯨ (4.7/5) – Based on 4,015 reviews
Capterra: ★★★★⯨ (4.7/5) – Based on 3,997 reviews
Gartner: ★★★★☆ (4.5/5) – Based on 2,505 reviews
Foxit PDF Editor is a step up for teams that need more than PDFgear’s basic tools but aren’t ready to take on Adobe’s pricing. It’s especially well-suited for mid-sized businesses in industries where security features like redaction, document automation, and admin controls matter just as much as affordability. With apps for desktop, web, and mobile (Editor+), Foxit gives users flexible access and IT teams the oversight they need.
Foxit provides some higher-level features like Smart Redact for batch redaction, advanced OCR, PDF comparison, Action Wizard automations, and built-in eSign support. The Editor+ plan also includes 150 GB of cloud storage and mobile access, plus an optional AI Assistant that can summarize or rewrite documents using natural language commands. These features put Foxit ahead of PDFgear’s limited toolkit and closer to enterprise territory, but at a higher price (for now).
That said, collaboration is still file-based and comment-driven, making it more like PDFgear than Drawboard PDF. If you need real-time markup and collaboration or in-the-field review with a stylus, Drawboard PDF has the edge with live editing and precision inking. Also, Foxit’s desktop-style interface can also feel a little dated, and full AI or eSign functionality requires extra spending.
Still, for teams who want stronger PDF tools, strong security, and predictable licensing, Foxit strikes a solid balance between functionality and cost.
G2: ★★★★☆ (4.6/5) – Based on 3160 reviews
Capterra: ★★★★☆ (4.5/5) – Based on 944 reviews
Gartner: ★★★★☆ (4.6/5) – Based on 35 reviews
Wondershare PDFelement is built for users who need to review and edit PDFs efficiently. Its standout AI Sidebar can summarise, rewrite, translate, and detect AI-generated content, making it great for dense documents like contracts or reports. Compared to PDFgear, it adds OCR, batch conversion, form creation, and a more capable desktop interface.
The app runs on Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and the web (with the multi-platform plan), with a ribbon-style layout that feels familiar to Office users. Alternatively, you can also choose just one desktop platform at a discount at the cost of mobile support. The AI Sidebar speeds up solo work, but usage is limited unless you purchase additional credits. You also get 20 GB of cloud storage for syncing across devices.
It does not support real-time collaboration or stylus-optimized markup, and mobile features are limited unless you choose the multi-platform plan. The perpetual license only covers the current version and excludes major updates.
For individuals and small teams who want AI-assisted editing with a strong desktop toolkit, PDFelement offers more than basic free editors, but it stops short of live collaboration and precision markup tools.
G2: ★★★★☆ (4.5/5) – Based on 823 reviews
Capterra: ★★★★☆ (4.4/5) – Based on 438 reviews
Gartner: ★★★★☆ (4.6/5) – Based on 7 reviews
Nitro PDF is a good fit for users who want advanced editing and security features in a desktop-first environment, especially if they prefer a Microsoft-style ribbon interface. It offers deeper functionality than PDFgear, with tools like batch OCR, PDF comparison, Bates numbering, and secure redaction all available in its subscription plans. The interface is familiar and predictable, making it easy to adopt for teams already working in Microsoft Office.
Nitro offers both subscription and perpetual licensing, but the one-time Pro plan is Windows-only and does not include updates to future versions. That means core features like batch OCR, eSign, and admin controls are locked out unless you commit to an ongoing subscription. Nitro Sign, which adds template-driven signatures and audit trails, is also a separate cost.
Collaboration is limited to comments and file exchange, putting it closer to PDFgear than Drawboard PDF. It lacks real-time co-editing and has no Android app or web editor. Nitro also receives occasional critiques for slow support response times and performance on larger files.
For desktop-heavy teams that need compliance workflows but can work without cloud-first collaboration or mobile flexibility, Nitro delivers power and structure, as long as you avoid relying on the limited Pro license.
Reviews and ratings
G2: ★★★★☆ (4.3/5) – Based on 332 reviews
Capterra: ★★★★☆ (4.3/5) – Based on 561 reviews
Gartner: ★★★★☆ (4.6/5) – Based on 7 reviews
PDF Expert is a clean, Apple-native PDF editor designed for users working exclusively on macOS, iPadOS, and iOS. Its interface is fast and minimal, with reliable iCloud sync and Apple Pencil support on iPad. It’s a popular choice for those who want a lightweight editor for reading, reviewing, or marking up files locally. Compared to PDFgear, it provides a more refined experience on Apple devices, though it remains limited in scope.
Upgrading to the Premium plan unlocks full text and image editing, OCR in over 20 languages, file conversion, redaction, and an AI Copilot that can summarize or translate documents. These features cover the essentials for personal or professional use, but collaboration is limited to file sharing. There are no tools for real-time markup or shared editing sessions, which may limit its usefulness in team settings.
The app is strictly Apple-only, with no support for Windows, Android, or browser access. The $139.99 lifetime license covers only the Mac version and excludes future major updates and mobile apps. The $79.99 subscription covers all Apple devices but applies only to the first year, with higher renewal costs likely. According to some users, the support options are limited, and refund requests may take time to process.
For individual users in the Apple ecosystem who prioritize offline editing and a familiar interface, PDF Expert handles core tasks well. Just be aware of its platform limits, lack of collaboration tools, and long-term pricing.
G2: ★★★★⯨ (4.7/5) – Based on 29 reviews
Capterra: ★★★★☆ (4.5/5) – Based on 59 reviews
If you need real collaboration, pen-accurate markup, or a smoother review experience, Drawboard PDF offers the most complete alternative. It combines real-time file sharing, pressure-sensitive inking, and precision tools in a clean, cross-platform interface. Users consistently highlight its natural writing feel, fast syncing, and ability to speed up feedback across teams and devices.
Unlike tools that are easy to start with but quick to hit limits, Drawboard PDF is built to scale with your workflow. Whether you're reviewing plans, grading papers, or annotating documents by hand, it stays fast, fluid, familiar, and, most importantly, secure.
Try Drawboard PDF for free and see how much better your PDF workflows and review process can be.
PDFgear has carved out a niche as a free, lightweight PDF editor with enough tools to handle the basics. It lets users highlight, edit text, manage pages, run simple OCR, and convert documents without needing an account. For quick fixes and casual use, it’s a convenient option, especially for occasional users and anyone on a strict budget.
But many users, particularly businesses and on-the-go professionals, hit PDFgear’s ceiling quickly. It lacks features like real-time collaboration, pressure-sensitive markup, admin tools, and deeper capabilities like redaction. It’s also controversial, with a number of users expressing concerns over the true cost of a “free” program that uses ChatGPT’s costly API to let users interact with their PDFs using AI.
If you’ve found yourself needing more control, better annotation tools, or peace of mind about where your data goes, there are strong alternatives worth considering.
The tools below offer a range of options—from pen-accurate editing to AI-powered summaries to enterprise-grade security—so you can choose the right fit based on how you actually work with PDFs.
If you’ve hit the limits of PDFgear’s basic editing tools, Drawboard PDF is a natural next step, especially if you rely on markup, handwriting, or reviewing files across devices. Designed for fluid annotation, Drawboard PDF offers best-in-class inking, shape recognition, and a pen-on-paper feel that works seamlessly with a stylus but remains intuitive for mouse and touch users.
Unlike PDFgear’s static, single-user workflow, Drawboard PDF supports real-time collaboration through Store + Share (Drawboard’s own cloud), plus third-party syncing with SharePoint, OneDrive, Google Drive, and Dropbox. You can open the same file on different devices, sync changes instantly, and work alongside others in the same document. Pro plans include OCR for scanned documents, full-document redaction, hyperlinking, and calibrated measurement tools. These features are especially valuable for professionals working with complex or sensitive content.
Additional tools like multi-window comparison, annotation history, and reusable templates give power users more control without complicating the experience. Everything is available across Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and modern web browsers with a consistent and responsive interface.
Drawboard PDF combines strong markup capabilities with clean design, flexible pricing, and enterprise features you won’t find in most lightweight editors. It’s a compelling upgrade for users who need more hands-on features and advanced workflows, or who want more control over privacy and future costs than PDFgear’s model allows for.
G2: ★★★★☆ (4.3/5) – Based on 38 reviews
Capterra: ★★★★⯨ (4.8/5) – Based on 8 reviews
“Super useful for uni work and research… It has become one of my most used applications.”
— Drawboard PDF user testimonial
“One of the best writing/drawing programs for writing and saving PDFs. Loaded with a ton of features in a quick access menu and bigger menu if needed.” — Sarah H., SourceForge review
“Drawboard PDF offers a smooth and professional experience in annotating and editing PDF documents; it's very versatile and easy to take notes, draw free-form shapes, underline and even write directly and accurately on my PDFs with the stylus on my tablet's touch screen.” — Education user, G2
“Drawboard allows us various editing options including writing notes, adding comments, annotating with multiple colors and highlighting text. Most of the essential features are available in the free version of the software. The UI is great and it also supports dark mode. The feature of adding blank pages to an existing PDF is very useful.” — Simran S., G2 user
Adobe Acrobat remains the benchmark for secure and standards-compliant PDF workflows, especially in industries where regulatory requirements are non-negotiable. Legal teams, government agencies, and financial institutions rely on Acrobat Pro for its certified e-signatures, redaction logs, Bates numbering, and support for long-term archival formats like PDF/A. Its deep integration with Microsoft 365, SharePoint, and enterprise identity systems makes it a trusted option for large-scale deployment.
While PDFgear covers the basics of editing, OCR, and conversion, Acrobat goes several layers deeper. Its Pro plan includes advanced OCR with text recognition across multiple languages, automatic form field detection, and in-depth PDF comparison. Adobe Sign, available as a separate subscription, adds secure e-signatures with full audit trails and cloud-based routing. Acrobat also provides superior optimization tools for compressing files without sacrificing fidelity, which PDFgear’s desktop version lacks.
That said, Acrobat’s power comes with a learning curve and a steeper cost. The interface remains menu-heavy and best suited to desktop environments, which may feel dated or dense for users looking for simplicity. Features like redaction and form creation require the Pro plan, and Adobe Sign or AI tools must be purchased separately. For basic editing or casual review, Acrobat may be more than you need. But for enterprise, non-markup use, it remains unmatched.
G2: ★★★★⯨ (4.7/5) – Based on 4,015 reviews
Capterra: ★★★★⯨ (4.7/5) – Based on 3,997 reviews
Gartner: ★★★★☆ (4.5/5) – Based on 2,505 reviews
Foxit PDF Editor is a step up for teams that need more than PDFgear’s basic tools but aren’t ready to take on Adobe’s pricing. It’s especially well-suited for mid-sized businesses in industries where security features like redaction, document automation, and admin controls matter just as much as affordability. With apps for desktop, web, and mobile (Editor+), Foxit gives users flexible access and IT teams the oversight they need.
Foxit provides some higher-level features like Smart Redact for batch redaction, advanced OCR, PDF comparison, Action Wizard automations, and built-in eSign support. The Editor+ plan also includes 150 GB of cloud storage and mobile access, plus an optional AI Assistant that can summarize or rewrite documents using natural language commands. These features put Foxit ahead of PDFgear’s limited toolkit and closer to enterprise territory, but at a higher price (for now).
That said, collaboration is still file-based and comment-driven, making it more like PDFgear than Drawboard PDF. If you need real-time markup and collaboration or in-the-field review with a stylus, Drawboard PDF has the edge with live editing and precision inking. Also, Foxit’s desktop-style interface can also feel a little dated, and full AI or eSign functionality requires extra spending.
Still, for teams who want stronger PDF tools, strong security, and predictable licensing, Foxit strikes a solid balance between functionality and cost.
G2: ★★★★☆ (4.6/5) – Based on 3160 reviews
Capterra: ★★★★☆ (4.5/5) – Based on 944 reviews
Gartner: ★★★★☆ (4.6/5) – Based on 35 reviews
Wondershare PDFelement is built for users who need to review and edit PDFs efficiently. Its standout AI Sidebar can summarise, rewrite, translate, and detect AI-generated content, making it great for dense documents like contracts or reports. Compared to PDFgear, it adds OCR, batch conversion, form creation, and a more capable desktop interface.
The app runs on Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and the web (with the multi-platform plan), with a ribbon-style layout that feels familiar to Office users. Alternatively, you can also choose just one desktop platform at a discount at the cost of mobile support. The AI Sidebar speeds up solo work, but usage is limited unless you purchase additional credits. You also get 20 GB of cloud storage for syncing across devices.
It does not support real-time collaboration or stylus-optimized markup, and mobile features are limited unless you choose the multi-platform plan. The perpetual license only covers the current version and excludes major updates.
For individuals and small teams who want AI-assisted editing with a strong desktop toolkit, PDFelement offers more than basic free editors, but it stops short of live collaboration and precision markup tools.
G2: ★★★★☆ (4.5/5) – Based on 823 reviews
Capterra: ★★★★☆ (4.4/5) – Based on 438 reviews
Gartner: ★★★★☆ (4.6/5) – Based on 7 reviews
Nitro PDF is a good fit for users who want advanced editing and security features in a desktop-first environment, especially if they prefer a Microsoft-style ribbon interface. It offers deeper functionality than PDFgear, with tools like batch OCR, PDF comparison, Bates numbering, and secure redaction all available in its subscription plans. The interface is familiar and predictable, making it easy to adopt for teams already working in Microsoft Office.
Nitro offers both subscription and perpetual licensing, but the one-time Pro plan is Windows-only and does not include updates to future versions. That means core features like batch OCR, eSign, and admin controls are locked out unless you commit to an ongoing subscription. Nitro Sign, which adds template-driven signatures and audit trails, is also a separate cost.
Collaboration is limited to comments and file exchange, putting it closer to PDFgear than Drawboard PDF. It lacks real-time co-editing and has no Android app or web editor. Nitro also receives occasional critiques for slow support response times and performance on larger files.
For desktop-heavy teams that need compliance workflows but can work without cloud-first collaboration or mobile flexibility, Nitro delivers power and structure, as long as you avoid relying on the limited Pro license.
Reviews and ratings
G2: ★★★★☆ (4.3/5) – Based on 332 reviews
Capterra: ★★★★☆ (4.3/5) – Based on 561 reviews
Gartner: ★★★★☆ (4.6/5) – Based on 7 reviews
PDF Expert is a clean, Apple-native PDF editor designed for users working exclusively on macOS, iPadOS, and iOS. Its interface is fast and minimal, with reliable iCloud sync and Apple Pencil support on iPad. It’s a popular choice for those who want a lightweight editor for reading, reviewing, or marking up files locally. Compared to PDFgear, it provides a more refined experience on Apple devices, though it remains limited in scope.
Upgrading to the Premium plan unlocks full text and image editing, OCR in over 20 languages, file conversion, redaction, and an AI Copilot that can summarize or translate documents. These features cover the essentials for personal or professional use, but collaboration is limited to file sharing. There are no tools for real-time markup or shared editing sessions, which may limit its usefulness in team settings.
The app is strictly Apple-only, with no support for Windows, Android, or browser access. The $139.99 lifetime license covers only the Mac version and excludes future major updates and mobile apps. The $79.99 subscription covers all Apple devices but applies only to the first year, with higher renewal costs likely. According to some users, the support options are limited, and refund requests may take time to process.
For individual users in the Apple ecosystem who prioritize offline editing and a familiar interface, PDF Expert handles core tasks well. Just be aware of its platform limits, lack of collaboration tools, and long-term pricing.
G2: ★★★★⯨ (4.7/5) – Based on 29 reviews
Capterra: ★★★★☆ (4.5/5) – Based on 59 reviews
If you need real collaboration, pen-accurate markup, or a smoother review experience, Drawboard PDF offers the most complete alternative. It combines real-time file sharing, pressure-sensitive inking, and precision tools in a clean, cross-platform interface. Users consistently highlight its natural writing feel, fast syncing, and ability to speed up feedback across teams and devices.
Unlike tools that are easy to start with but quick to hit limits, Drawboard PDF is built to scale with your workflow. Whether you're reviewing plans, grading papers, or annotating documents by hand, it stays fast, fluid, familiar, and, most importantly, secure.
Try Drawboard PDF for free and see how much better your PDF workflows and review process can be.
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.
