Looking for a PDF tool that can keep up with the way you work today? Whether you're collaborating across devices, reviewing documents in real time, or just want a smoother editing experience, it's worth rethinking what your current software can do.
Tungsten Power PDF delivers structure and control. It’s a go-to for teams that rely on offline workflows, network-based collaboration, and traditional desktop setups. Legal, finance, and government users often turn to it for redaction, stamping, and structured document handling.
But in 2025, those strengths come with trade-offs. Real-time collaboration is limited to shared networks, mobile functionality is basic, and features like AI and eSign are restricted to higher-tier plans. Additionally, its perpetual licensing model may seem straightforward, but without ongoing updates, it quickly falls behind.
If you're ready for a more flexible and connected workflow, this guide highlights six top alternatives that offer smarter tools, better mobility, and collaboration features that work wherever you do.
Drawboard PDF is a more modern and versatile alternative to Tungsten Power PDF, built for users who value markup, mobility, real-time collaboration, and a smoother document experience. Where Tungsten still relies heavily on desktop workflows and file-based sharing, generally in office or enterprise environments, Drawboard PDF allows for cross-network collaboration. It offers a cloud-first platform with real-time syncing across Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and the web, allowing teams and individuals to annotate the same file together without relying on email chains or shared network folders.
Drawboard PDF’s flexibility is paired with a robust toolkit that fits a wide range of users. Students can highlight, comment, and organize notes from anywhere. Architects and engineers can use calibrated measurement tools to review drawings accurately. Business users can redact sensitive text, insert audio feedback, or manage form-filling tasks on the fly. Everything is intuitive and designed for both stylus and touch, making it equally powerful on a tablet or desktop.
Unlike Tungsten’s perpetual license model, which requires manual updates and separate installations, Drawboard PDF keeps everything in one platform with flexible pricing, continuous improvements, and cross-device access. It’s a smart solution for anyone who wants a streamlined, connected approach to marking up and working with PDFs.
G2: ★★★★☆ (4.3/5) – Based on 38 reviews
Capterra: ★★★★⯨ (4.8/5) – Based on 8 reviews
“Drawboard PDF has allowed me to transition from working with pen and paper to going all digital. Total life-changer.” — Alan Pierson, Conductor
“I can measure every element in my architect’s blueprint, add neat annotations, and everything syncs instantly.” — Microsoft Store reviewer
“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 Pro DC is widely regarded as the gold standard for PDF workflows, especially in industries like law, government, and finance, where security, compliance, and detailed audit trails are essential. Compared to Tungsten Power PDF, Acrobat offers a deeper feature set and stronger cross-platform support, including dedicated apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, and the web. It’s built for organizations that demand precise control over documents, with features like certified redaction, form creation with JavaScript, and seamless integration with Adobe Sign for secure, trackable signatures.
Where Acrobat sets itself apart is in its handling of complex, high-volume workflows. It can convert scanned documents into searchable, editable files using class-leading OCR, compare versions with side-by-side markup, and automate form logic with advanced scripting. Enterprise-grade tools like SSO, license management, and SharePoint integration make it especially IT-friendly. For teams working on regulated or large-scale projects, it offers depth that Tungsten can’t match.
That said, Acrobat’s expansive feature set comes with complexity. The interface is packed with menus and options, which can be overwhelming for users looking to make quick markups or edits. Pricing also adds up fast, with AI features and Adobe Sign billed as add-ons. And unlike Drawboard PDF or other ink-focused tools, Acrobat doesn’t optimize for stylus or touch workflows, making it less fluid for hands-on annotation in mobile or field settings.
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 offers a compelling alternative to Tungsten Power PDF, combining advanced editing tools with broader platform support. Where Tungsten is locked to desktop environments and local file workflows, Foxit allows users to work across Windows, macOS, web, iOS, and Android (with Editor+). It’s a smart fit for teams that need flexibility without giving up key features like redaction, OCR, and form creation.
Foxit’s toolset includes Smart Redact, batch processing, document comparison, and built-in eSign capabilities in the Editor+ plan. Admin features like SSO, license management, and over 40 cloud integrations make it a solid choice for business environments. While it doesn’t support real-time collaboration, its asynchronous comment-based reviews still suit many workflows better than Tungsten’s LAN-based co-authoring.
There are a few trade-offs. The interface feels dated, the Mac app isn’t fully native, and mobile access or AI tools require the higher-tier plan or additional add-ons. But for users who want Tungsten-level depth with more device freedom and licensing options, Foxit strikes a well-balanced middle ground.
Foxit PDF Editor: $129.99/year – Core editing features for desktop
Foxit PDF Editor+: $159.99/year – Adds Smart Redact, mobile/web access, cloud integration, and eSign
Add-ons: Foxit eSign and AI Assistant available separately
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 is a great fit for teams that need a consistent, structured way to handle large volumes of documents. Its Microsoft Office-style ribbon interface makes it easy to edit, convert, organize, and secure PDFs without much of a learning curve. Whether you're managing contract reviews, processing scanned forms, building fillable templates, or redacting sensitive information, Nitro delivers the right tools for document-heavy workflows across industries.
The platform supports full PDF editing, batch OCR using ABBYY technology, file comparison, form creation, and secure redaction with audit logs. Teams using the Plus plan get access to enterprise features like SSO, analytics dashboards, and Microsoft 365 integration, while Nitro Sign (sold separately) supports secure e-signature workflows with templates, tracking, and ID verification. However, like Tungsten, adding eSign can easily double costs. Additionally, its Standard and Plus subscriptions cover Windows, macOS, and iOS, while the one-time-purchase Pro license is Windows-only and does not include future updates.
Nitro doesn’t support Android or web-based editing and doesn’t offer live collaboration. Mobile markup also lacks native touch gestures, treating touch like a cursor. But for users who prioritize reliability, compliance, and repeatable workflows across desktop and mobile, Nitro is a well-rounded solution.
Pro: $250 (perpetual, Windows only, no future updates)
Standard: $15/month – Subscription for core editing across platforms
Plus: Custom pricing – Adds enterprise features and admin tools
Nitro Sign: From $15/month (sold separately, accessible via web)
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 a capable, user-friendly PDF editor that combines advanced features with a streamlined interface. Built for individuals and small teams, it delivers editing, conversion, OCR, and form creation through a familiar Word-style ribbon. Compared to Tungsten Power PDF, which leans into enterprise deployment and desktop-first licensing, PDFelement offers more flexibility with annual, two-year, and one-time licenses (current version only; doesn’t include major updates), plus seamless cross-platform access on Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and web.
One of PDFelement’s most prominent features is its built-in AI Sidebar. Users can summarize dense reports, rewrite language, or translate content directly within the document using natural language prompts. While Tungsten offers AI via a separate enterprise-only Copilot, PDFelement makes it more accessible for individual workflows. The platform also includes batch processing, interactive form tools, annotation features, and basic eSignature sending, all backed by Wondershare Cloud syncing.
Wondershare PDFelement’s limitations include credit-based AI usage, no real-time collaboration, and advanced mobile tools locked behind additional licenses. Users report that large files may cause occasional lag, and AI power users may need to purchase add-ons. Still, for users who value quick editing, AI-driven document insight, and broad device support, PDFelement is a practical and affordable alternative to Tungsten’s more static, compliance-focused setup.
Single Platform:
Cross Platform:
Additional AI credits available starting at $3.99 per month.
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 feature-rich desktop PDF editor aimed at individual users who need powerful tools at a low upfront cost. Known for its depth, it's often favored by engineers, researchers, and document-heavy professionals who can navigate its complex UI and put the endless tools to use. Compared to Tungsten Power PDF, which offers broader cross-platform support and collaboration options, PDF-XChange is limited to Windows and operates strictly on file-based workflows, making it less flexible for teams or mobile users.
The Editor version includes precise editing for text, images, and pages, along with OCR, redaction, and PDF/A export. Editor Plus builds on this with fillable form creation, document comparison, dynamic stamps, and JavaScript automation. If you’re not sure what you need, a free tier gives access to most of its nearly 400 features with watermark limitations.
Despite its strengths, PDF-XChange comes with trade-offs. The interface is packed with features but can feel cluttered, especially for new or casual users. There's no mobile, Mac, or web version, and while licenses are one-time purchases, updates are only included for one year. Ongoing access to future features requires either re-purchasing or paying for annual maintenance.
For solo professionals who prioritize precision and performance on Windows, it remains a capable choice, just not the most versatile one.
G2: ★★★★☆ (4.6/5) – Based on 142 reviews
Capterra: ★★★★☆ (4.5/5) – Based on 256 reviews
Tungsten Power PDF remains a solid choice for organizations that need strict control, local file handling, and dependable editing tools. Its security features, familiar interface, and offline flexibility still serve many traditional office workflows well.
But for users who need more—real-time collaboration, better mobile access, pen-friendly annotation, and seamless cross-device sync—Drawboard PDF fills in the gaps. It replaces file merges and manual reviews with live updates, best-in-class inking, and flexible cloud access across all platforms.
For teams ready to move beyond static desktops and into more connected, responsive workflows, Drawboard PDF is the smarter, modern alternative.
Looking for a PDF tool that can keep up with the way you work today? Whether you're collaborating across devices, reviewing documents in real time, or just want a smoother editing experience, it's worth rethinking what your current software can do.
Tungsten Power PDF delivers structure and control. It’s a go-to for teams that rely on offline workflows, network-based collaboration, and traditional desktop setups. Legal, finance, and government users often turn to it for redaction, stamping, and structured document handling.
But in 2025, those strengths come with trade-offs. Real-time collaboration is limited to shared networks, mobile functionality is basic, and features like AI and eSign are restricted to higher-tier plans. Additionally, its perpetual licensing model may seem straightforward, but without ongoing updates, it quickly falls behind.
If you're ready for a more flexible and connected workflow, this guide highlights six top alternatives that offer smarter tools, better mobility, and collaboration features that work wherever you do.
Drawboard PDF is a more modern and versatile alternative to Tungsten Power PDF, built for users who value markup, mobility, real-time collaboration, and a smoother document experience. Where Tungsten still relies heavily on desktop workflows and file-based sharing, generally in office or enterprise environments, Drawboard PDF allows for cross-network collaboration. It offers a cloud-first platform with real-time syncing across Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and the web, allowing teams and individuals to annotate the same file together without relying on email chains or shared network folders.
Drawboard PDF’s flexibility is paired with a robust toolkit that fits a wide range of users. Students can highlight, comment, and organize notes from anywhere. Architects and engineers can use calibrated measurement tools to review drawings accurately. Business users can redact sensitive text, insert audio feedback, or manage form-filling tasks on the fly. Everything is intuitive and designed for both stylus and touch, making it equally powerful on a tablet or desktop.
Unlike Tungsten’s perpetual license model, which requires manual updates and separate installations, Drawboard PDF keeps everything in one platform with flexible pricing, continuous improvements, and cross-device access. It’s a smart solution for anyone who wants a streamlined, connected approach to marking up and working with PDFs.
G2: ★★★★☆ (4.3/5) – Based on 38 reviews
Capterra: ★★★★⯨ (4.8/5) – Based on 8 reviews
“Drawboard PDF has allowed me to transition from working with pen and paper to going all digital. Total life-changer.” — Alan Pierson, Conductor
“I can measure every element in my architect’s blueprint, add neat annotations, and everything syncs instantly.” — Microsoft Store reviewer
“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 Pro DC is widely regarded as the gold standard for PDF workflows, especially in industries like law, government, and finance, where security, compliance, and detailed audit trails are essential. Compared to Tungsten Power PDF, Acrobat offers a deeper feature set and stronger cross-platform support, including dedicated apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, and the web. It’s built for organizations that demand precise control over documents, with features like certified redaction, form creation with JavaScript, and seamless integration with Adobe Sign for secure, trackable signatures.
Where Acrobat sets itself apart is in its handling of complex, high-volume workflows. It can convert scanned documents into searchable, editable files using class-leading OCR, compare versions with side-by-side markup, and automate form logic with advanced scripting. Enterprise-grade tools like SSO, license management, and SharePoint integration make it especially IT-friendly. For teams working on regulated or large-scale projects, it offers depth that Tungsten can’t match.
That said, Acrobat’s expansive feature set comes with complexity. The interface is packed with menus and options, which can be overwhelming for users looking to make quick markups or edits. Pricing also adds up fast, with AI features and Adobe Sign billed as add-ons. And unlike Drawboard PDF or other ink-focused tools, Acrobat doesn’t optimize for stylus or touch workflows, making it less fluid for hands-on annotation in mobile or field settings.
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 offers a compelling alternative to Tungsten Power PDF, combining advanced editing tools with broader platform support. Where Tungsten is locked to desktop environments and local file workflows, Foxit allows users to work across Windows, macOS, web, iOS, and Android (with Editor+). It’s a smart fit for teams that need flexibility without giving up key features like redaction, OCR, and form creation.
Foxit’s toolset includes Smart Redact, batch processing, document comparison, and built-in eSign capabilities in the Editor+ plan. Admin features like SSO, license management, and over 40 cloud integrations make it a solid choice for business environments. While it doesn’t support real-time collaboration, its asynchronous comment-based reviews still suit many workflows better than Tungsten’s LAN-based co-authoring.
There are a few trade-offs. The interface feels dated, the Mac app isn’t fully native, and mobile access or AI tools require the higher-tier plan or additional add-ons. But for users who want Tungsten-level depth with more device freedom and licensing options, Foxit strikes a well-balanced middle ground.
Foxit PDF Editor: $129.99/year – Core editing features for desktop
Foxit PDF Editor+: $159.99/year – Adds Smart Redact, mobile/web access, cloud integration, and eSign
Add-ons: Foxit eSign and AI Assistant available separately
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 is a great fit for teams that need a consistent, structured way to handle large volumes of documents. Its Microsoft Office-style ribbon interface makes it easy to edit, convert, organize, and secure PDFs without much of a learning curve. Whether you're managing contract reviews, processing scanned forms, building fillable templates, or redacting sensitive information, Nitro delivers the right tools for document-heavy workflows across industries.
The platform supports full PDF editing, batch OCR using ABBYY technology, file comparison, form creation, and secure redaction with audit logs. Teams using the Plus plan get access to enterprise features like SSO, analytics dashboards, and Microsoft 365 integration, while Nitro Sign (sold separately) supports secure e-signature workflows with templates, tracking, and ID verification. However, like Tungsten, adding eSign can easily double costs. Additionally, its Standard and Plus subscriptions cover Windows, macOS, and iOS, while the one-time-purchase Pro license is Windows-only and does not include future updates.
Nitro doesn’t support Android or web-based editing and doesn’t offer live collaboration. Mobile markup also lacks native touch gestures, treating touch like a cursor. But for users who prioritize reliability, compliance, and repeatable workflows across desktop and mobile, Nitro is a well-rounded solution.
Pro: $250 (perpetual, Windows only, no future updates)
Standard: $15/month – Subscription for core editing across platforms
Plus: Custom pricing – Adds enterprise features and admin tools
Nitro Sign: From $15/month (sold separately, accessible via web)
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 a capable, user-friendly PDF editor that combines advanced features with a streamlined interface. Built for individuals and small teams, it delivers editing, conversion, OCR, and form creation through a familiar Word-style ribbon. Compared to Tungsten Power PDF, which leans into enterprise deployment and desktop-first licensing, PDFelement offers more flexibility with annual, two-year, and one-time licenses (current version only; doesn’t include major updates), plus seamless cross-platform access on Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and web.
One of PDFelement’s most prominent features is its built-in AI Sidebar. Users can summarize dense reports, rewrite language, or translate content directly within the document using natural language prompts. While Tungsten offers AI via a separate enterprise-only Copilot, PDFelement makes it more accessible for individual workflows. The platform also includes batch processing, interactive form tools, annotation features, and basic eSignature sending, all backed by Wondershare Cloud syncing.
Wondershare PDFelement’s limitations include credit-based AI usage, no real-time collaboration, and advanced mobile tools locked behind additional licenses. Users report that large files may cause occasional lag, and AI power users may need to purchase add-ons. Still, for users who value quick editing, AI-driven document insight, and broad device support, PDFelement is a practical and affordable alternative to Tungsten’s more static, compliance-focused setup.
Single Platform:
Cross Platform:
Additional AI credits available starting at $3.99 per month.
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 feature-rich desktop PDF editor aimed at individual users who need powerful tools at a low upfront cost. Known for its depth, it's often favored by engineers, researchers, and document-heavy professionals who can navigate its complex UI and put the endless tools to use. Compared to Tungsten Power PDF, which offers broader cross-platform support and collaboration options, PDF-XChange is limited to Windows and operates strictly on file-based workflows, making it less flexible for teams or mobile users.
The Editor version includes precise editing for text, images, and pages, along with OCR, redaction, and PDF/A export. Editor Plus builds on this with fillable form creation, document comparison, dynamic stamps, and JavaScript automation. If you’re not sure what you need, a free tier gives access to most of its nearly 400 features with watermark limitations.
Despite its strengths, PDF-XChange comes with trade-offs. The interface is packed with features but can feel cluttered, especially for new or casual users. There's no mobile, Mac, or web version, and while licenses are one-time purchases, updates are only included for one year. Ongoing access to future features requires either re-purchasing or paying for annual maintenance.
For solo professionals who prioritize precision and performance on Windows, it remains a capable choice, just not the most versatile one.
G2: ★★★★☆ (4.6/5) – Based on 142 reviews
Capterra: ★★★★☆ (4.5/5) – Based on 256 reviews
Tungsten Power PDF remains a solid choice for organizations that need strict control, local file handling, and dependable editing tools. Its security features, familiar interface, and offline flexibility still serve many traditional office workflows well.
But for users who need more—real-time collaboration, better mobile access, pen-friendly annotation, and seamless cross-device sync—Drawboard PDF fills in the gaps. It replaces file merges and manual reviews with live updates, best-in-class inking, and flexible cloud access across all platforms.
For teams ready to move beyond static desktops and into more connected, responsive workflows, Drawboard PDF is the smarter, modern alternative.
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.
