1. Adobe Acrobat Reader (Free Version)
Adobe Acrobat Reader is one of the most trusted names in PDF software. Its free version offers a smooth experience for essential tasks such as reading, commenting, highlighting, and filling out PDF forms. Users can add sticky notes, draw annotations, and insert digital signatures easily. Though advanced editing features require a subscription, the free tools are more than enough for most students and professionals. It integrates well with cloud storage like Google Drive and Dropbox, making document access seamless across devices. Its clean interface and reliable performance make it a top choice for free PDF editing.
2. Smallpdf
Smallpdf offers a clean, browser-based platform with powerful PDF editing tools. With the free version, users can merge, split, compress, and convert PDFs to and from Word, Excel, and images. It also supports e-signatures and basic editing features like adding text, shapes, and annotations. One unique aspect is its offline app for Windows and Mac, ideal for working without internet access. The intuitive drag-and-drop interface and minimal ads create a smooth user experience. While daily usage limits apply to free accounts, Smallpdf remains a go-to for fast and easy PDF tasks without signing up.
3. PDFescape (Online)
PDFescape is a free online PDF editor that doesn’t require downloads or installation. It allows users to upload a PDF file and begin editing directly in the browser. You can add text, whiteout areas, draw shapes, insert form fields, and more. It’s perfect for quick changes or filling forms. PDFescape supports documents up to 10MB and 100 pages in the free plan. While it lacks advanced tools like OCR or text editing, it excels in accessibility and user-friendliness. It’s a reliable option for students and users looking for a no-frills, web-based editing solution.
4. Sejda PDF Editor
Sejda stands out for its simple interface and surprisingly powerful free features. Users can edit existing PDF text, add links, insert images, annotate documents, and more—all within a clean web interface. It allows three tasks per hour for free users, with file limits up to 200 pages or 50MB. What sets Sejda apart is its desktop version, which works offline and respects user privacy. It’s ideal for those who want to quickly edit PDF content without installing heavy software. For light to moderate use, Sejda is a dependable and highly polished choice.
5. iLovePDF
iLovePDF is a free, easy-to-use platform that offers a full suite of PDF tools online. Users can merge, split, compress, watermark, rotate, and convert PDFs with a few clicks. It includes tools for editing text, filling forms, and adding signatures. The free version supports batch processing with limits, making it great for handling multiple files quickly. It also offers a mobile app with scanning capabilities. While the editing features are basic, the speed, accessibility, and user-friendly interface make iLovePDF a strong pick for students and professionals needing fast, web-based editing.
6. PDF-XChange Editor
PDF-XChange Editor is a Windows-only software known for its speed and advanced tools, even in the free version. Users can highlight text, add comments, draw shapes, and insert stamps or images. Its unique OCR feature converts scanned documents into editable text—a rare find in free editors. Though a watermark appears when using premium-only tools, most editing needs are met without it. It supports form filling and even custom JavaScript. With low memory usage and robust features, PDF-XChange is ideal for users looking for a powerful desktop PDF editor without paying.
7. Foxit PDF Reader
Foxit PDF Reader offers a smooth, professional experience for reading, annotating, and sharing PDFs. It supports collaboration with cloud-based commenting and sharing tools. The interface resembles Microsoft Office, which makes it familiar and easy to use. While it doesn't offer full editing in the free version, it does allow for text markup, stamps, and form filling. It’s lightweight, fast, and integrates with services like Google Drive and OneDrive. Perfect for teams and students, Foxit delivers reliable performance and secure PDF handling in a free, easy-to-use package.
8. WPS Office PDF
WPS Office includes a versatile PDF reader and editor within its all-in-one office suite. Users can annotate PDFs, highlight text, add comments, and even sign documents. While full editing features require a premium plan, the free tools are practical for day-to-day academic or business tasks. Its mobile app is especially handy, offering OCR scanning and PDF conversion. The interface is sleek and blends well with other office tools like Word and Excel. For those seeking a multifunctional platform with reliable PDF handling, WPS is a great free solution.
9. Xodo PDF Reader & Editor
Xodo is a free, feature-rich app available on Android, iOS, and web platforms. It allows users to highlight, underline, annotate, and collaborate in real time. It also supports form filling, digital signing, and syncing with Dropbox and Google Drive. Xodo’s interface is modern and intuitive, making it one of the best mobile PDF solutions. The ability to edit and mark up PDFs offline is especially useful for students and remote workers. It’s fast, secure, and completely free without hidden costs—perfect for both everyday and advanced PDF tasks.
10. Kami (for Chrome & Classroom)
Kami is a web-based PDF tool designed primarily for education. It integrates seamlessly with Google Classroom and Drive, letting students and teachers collaborate on assignments, annotate PDFs, and leave feedback in real time. Free features include highlighting, commenting, inserting text boxes, and drawing tools. Its accessibility features like text-to-speech and dictionary support make it inclusive for all learners. Although premium tools like OCR and equation editing are locked, the free plan is excellent for digital classrooms. Kami shines as a collaborative PDF editor tailored for modern education environments.