When you need to make a quick change to a PDF, you shouldn't have to pay for expensive software or create an account. Here are five of the best free PDF editors that let you get the job done fast.
1. Docento.app
Best for: Speed and privacy. Docento.app runs entirely in your browser, meaning your files are never uploaded to a server. It offers essential tools like signing, text editing, and stamps without any sign-ups or watermarks. Its clean interface makes it perfect for quick, hassle-free edits.
2. Smallpdf
Best for: A suite of PDF tools. Smallpdf offers more than just editing. You can compress, convert, and merge PDFs. The free version is limited to two documents per day, but its wide range of features makes it a powerful option.
3. Sejda
Best for: Generous free tier. Sejda offers a robust set of tools and a more generous free plan than many competitors, with limitations on tasks per hour. It has a simple, task-oriented interface that's easy to navigate.
4. PDF-XChange Editor
Best for: Feature-rich desktop-like experience. While it has a web version, PDF-XChange is known for its powerful desktop app. The free version includes a lot of functionality, but some advanced features will leave a watermark.
5. iLovePDF
Best for: Mobile and web integration. iLovePDF provides a clean, user-friendly experience with a full suite of tools for merging, splitting, and converting PDFs. It’s great for users who need to work on both their computer and phone.
For most users who just need to sign a document or add some text, a simple, privacy-focused tool like Docento.app is the ideal choice.