Published on Apr 09, 2025 5 min read

The Best 5 PDF Editing Tools Compared for Fast and Easy File Changes

PDFs are everywhere. Whether you're signing a contract, filling out a form, or editing business documents, having the right tool can make your life much easier. But with so many PDF editing tools out there, it’s hard to know which one to pick.

This post makes it easy. This guide has compared the top 5 PDF editing tools based on features, ease of use, price, and more. So, if you're looking to edit PDFs online or offline, keep reading — your perfect tool might be one scroll away.

Why Using a Good PDF Editing Tool is Important

A good PDF editing tool saves time and avoids frustration. It allows users to make changes without converting files or starting from scratch.

Here’s what a good PDF editor can help with:

• Edit text, images, and hyperlinks
• Fill in or sign PDF forms
• Convert PDF files to Word, Excel, or images
• Combine multiple PDFs into one
• Add watermarks or passwords for protection
• Annotate, highlight and leave comments

Without the right tool, even small changes can be a hassle. That’s why it’s helpful to find an editor that is simple and effective.

1. Adobe Acrobat Pro DC – The Original PDF Editor

People most often use Adobe Acrobat Pro DC to change PDFs. Since Adobe made PDF, it makes sense that their editor has a lot of options.

Key Features:

• Edit text and images in any PDF
• Convert PDFs into other formats
• Use OCR to scan and edit paper documents
• Add digital signatures and comments
• Store and share files in the cloud

Pros:

• Very powerful and reliable
• Trusted by professionals
• Great tools for editing and collaboration

Cons:

• Expensive compared to other tools
• Takes time to learn for beginners

Best For: People who need advanced editing tools, such as lawyers, teachers, or business professionals.

2. Smallpdf – Easy and Online

Smallpdf is a web-based tool that’s fast, simple, and great for quick jobs. It runs in any browser and doesn't need to be installed.

Key Features:

• Edit PDFs online
• Merge, split, and compress files
• Convert PDFs to Word, Excel, or JPG
• Add e-signatures
• Protect documents with passwords

Pros:

• Easy to use and beginner-friendly
• Works on phones, tablets, and computers
• Free version available

Cons:

• Daily limits on the free version
• Not ideal for large or complex edits

Best For: Students, freelancers, and anyone who wants to edit PDFs online without downloading software.

3. PDF-XChange Editor – Feature-Packed and Lightweight

PDF-XChange Editor gives users many editing tools in a fast and lightweight package. It’s often chosen by people who want powerful features but don’t want to pay monthly fees.

Key Features:

• Advanced editing of text, images, and links
• Built-in OCR for scanned files
• Tools for comments, stamps, and annotations
• Add or delete pages

Pros:

• Fast performance
• Lots of features for a low-cost
• Portable version available

Cons:

• Interface looks outdated
• Some tools require a paid license

Best For: Users who need detailed editing and want a low-cost, one-time purchase option.

4. Sejda PDF Editor – Web and Desktop Combo

Sejda PDF Editor combines the flexibility of online editing with the option to work offline using the desktop version. It’s a good balance between ease of use and security.

Key Features:

• Edit text and add images
• Fill out forms and sign documents
• Merge, split, and compress PDFs
• Add passwords or remove pages

Pros:

• Clean and modern design
• No sign-up is needed for basic tools
• Desktop version available for private editing

Cons:

• Limits on file size and number of tasks per day
• It can be slow on large documents

Best For: People who want to use both online and offline tools and work with PDFs occasionally.

5. Foxit PDF Editor – Powerful and Affordable

Foxit PDF Editor offers professional-level features at a lower price than Adobe. It’s used by companies and teams that want fast editing tools with strong security.

Key Features:

• Edit, organize, and secure PDFs
• Add stamps, highlights, and comments
• Create forms or edit scanned documents
• Connect with cloud storage services

Pros:

• Cheaper than Adobe
• Runs faster than most editors
• Clear and organized layout

Cons:

• Some advanced tools require learning
• A user interface may feel old-fashioned to some

Best For: Businesses and office teams who need full features at a lower cost.

How to Pick the Right PDF Editor

Choosing the right PDF editor depends on the user’s needs. Here are a few things to consider:

Usage Frequency:

Those who use PDFs every day should consider powerful editors like Adobe or Foxit. Light users may prefer Smallpdf or Sejda.

Device and Platform:

Some editors work only on Windows (like PDF-XChange), while others, like Smallpdf and Adobe, work across all platforms.

Budget:

Free tools are fine for quick tasks. Paid tools give more control and flexibility.

File Security:

For sensitive work documents, offline editors or those with strong security (like Foxit) are recommended.

Features Required:

Make a checklist of must-have features such as:

• Text/image editing
• Signature support
• File conversion
• OCR for scanned files

Conclusion

Editing PDFs is easier than ever, thanks to a variety of tools designed for different needs. Each editor offers unique features—some are simple and free, while others provide professional-grade functionality. Adobe Acrobat Pro is ideal for advanced users who need full control, while Smallpdf and Sejda are great for quick, everyday tasks. PDF-XChange Editor offers powerful features without the cost of a subscription, making it perfect for budget-conscious users. Foxit stands out as a smart, affordable option for businesses. Choosing the right tool depends on how often PDFs are edited, what features are needed, and how much users are willing to spend.