- Jan 19
- 5 min read
Updated: Feb 11
Finding the right PDF editor can transform how you handle documents, moving you from frustration to finished in minutes. Whether you need to sign contracts, merge files, or edit text directly, the best PDF editors offer powerful tools to keep your workflow smooth without the need for complex software or steep learning curves.
This guide will explore the 10 best PDF editors available right now, from all-in-one platforms to quick, browser-based tools, so you can find the right solution that fits your workflow.
Wixel is a PDF editor that lets you edit text, add annotations and insert signatures without switching tools. Wixel also includes a PDF converter that turns Word, JPG, and other file types into PDFs in seconds, plus a PDF merger that combines multiple files into one clean, shareable document.
TL;DR: best PDF editors
Here’s a quick overview to help you compare the top options at a glance:
Name | Key feature | Best for |
Wixel PDF editor | Built-in website & document management | Website owners, small businesses |
Foxit | Secure collaboration tools | Teams & enterprises |
PDF Expert | Fast, native Apple experience | Mac & iOS users |
Sejda | Simple, task-based editing | Occasional users |
DocFly | Cloud document management | Remote teams |
Xodo | Real-time annotation & syncing | Collaboration & review |
Soda PDF | Full editing with OCR | Growing businesses |
PDF Buddy | Online PDF editing and signatures | Quick edits |
PDF24 Tools | Free browser-based utilities | Quick fixes |
What is a PDF editor?
A PDF editor is software that allows you to modify Portable Document Format (PDF) files. Unlike a simple PDF reader, which only lets you view files, an editor gives you control over the content.
These tools let you manipulate text, images and pages within a document that was originally designed to be unchangeable. Depending on the software, you can fix typos, rearrange paragraphs, sign forms digitally, and even convert other file types (like Word or Excel) into high-quality PDFs. They are essential for keeping digital paperwork organized and professional.
Because PDFs were originally designed to be read-only, editing them requires specialized tools, making the choice of PDF editor especially important.
Discover more: everything you need to know about PDF files.
9 best PDF editor examples
Ready to take control of your documents? Here are the top tools that make editing PDFs easy and efficient.
01. Wixel PDF editor by Wix
Wixel PDF editor by Wix lets you create, edit and manage PDFs as part of your website workflow. Instead of treating PDFs as separate files, you can update documents directly alongside your site content. This is ideal for guides, menus, price lists and downloadable resources.
You can quickly edit text, swap images or update details without exporting files between platforms. Wixel also offers a PDF converter, making it easy to turn images into compact, share-ready PDFs.
Why it works: Everything lives in one place, helping you work faster and keep documents aligned with your website.
Pricing: Wixel pricing ranges from a free plan to paid plans starting at $9/month (billed annually).
Learn more: how to make a PDF.
02. Foxit
Foxit is designed for businesses that need advanced editing, security and collaboration features. It’s commonly used by teams handling contracts and sensitive documents.
Why it works: Strong focus on permissions, encryption and shared reviews.
Pricing: Free Foxit PDF editor and advance features with Foxit PDF Editor+ ($159.99 per year).
Learn more: how to combine a PDF easily.
03. PDF Expert
Built specifically for Apple devices, PDF Expert offers fast performance and a clean, native interface on macOS and iOS.
Why it works: Feels seamless for Apple-first workflows.
Pricing: $79.99/year or $139.99 lifetime.
Learn more: how to make a PDF fillable.
04. Sejda
Sejda is a browser-based PDF editor that focuses on simplicity. You can jump straight into editing, merging or compressing files without a learning curve.
Why it works: Quick edits without installing software.
Pricing: Weekly ($5 one-time payment), Monthly ($7.50 per month) or Yearly ($63 per year) payment options.
Learn more: how to compress a PDF without losing quality.
05. DocFly
DocFly combines PDF editing with online storage, making it useful for users who want to keep documents organized in the cloud.
Why it works: Editing and file management in one place.
Pricing: Free plan available, plus DocFly Pro Monthly ($7.99 per month) and DocFly Pro Annual ($3.99 per month).
Learn more: how to make a PDF editable.
06. Xodo
Xodo supports real-time collaboration, allowing multiple users to annotate and review PDFs together.
Why it works: Designed for teamwork and live feedback.
Pricing: Online plans from $9.99/month.
07. Soda PDF
Soda PDF is a versatile PDF editor available both online and as desktop software. It covers everything from text and image editing to OCR, form creation and secure file sharing.
Why it works: Soda PDF's flexibility allows you to switch between cloud-based editing and offline work, making it a solid option for businesses that need both convenience and control.
Pricing: Standard, Pro and Business plans available, all as either monthly or yearly options (check platform for current pricing).
08. PDF Buddy
PDF Buddy is a browser-based editor for text edits, form filling and e-signatures.
This PDF editor works entirely online, so you can manage documents from any device.
Why it works: Ideal for quick edits without downloads.
Pricing: Free or Pro ($7.99/month) plans available, as well as pay-as-you-go credits.
09. PDF24 Tools
PDF24 Tools is a free, browser-based collection of PDF utilities for editing, merging, compressing and converting files.
Why it works: No sign-up required and easy to use.
Pricing: Free.
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How to create editable PDFs
Turning a static PDF into an editable document is easier than you might think. Follow these four simple steps to unlock and update your files.
01. Choose your editing tool
Start by selecting a PDF editor that supports full text and form editing. Look for features like OCR (Optical Character Recognition) if you’re working with scanned documents, as this will convert images of text into editable content. Tools like Wixel and other modern PDF editors handle this automatically.
Turn your images into a PDF file using these PDF converter tools from Wixel:
02. Upload and analyze your PDF
Upload your PDF to the editor. The software will scan the file structure to determine whether it’s text-based or image-based. If the PDF is scanned, the editor will analyze the content and prepare it for OCR so text, images and layouts can be edited accurately.
03. Enable editing features
Once the file is processed, activate the editing tools. This may include text editing, image replacement, page reordering or form field creation. For scanned PDFs, enable OCR to unlock the text layer and make individual words and sections selectable.
04. Make your changes and save
Edit your text, adjust formatting, add fields or annotations, then save the updated file. Most editors let you export the PDF with changes preserved or download a new version, ensuring it’s ready to share, sign or publish. Finally, open the PDF in a browser to ensure everything works correctly.
You may also be interested in how to combine PDFs.
Please note: All information in this article is correct as of 20th January, 2026.
Best PDF editors FAQ
Can I edit a PDF for free?
Yes. Some PDF editor tools offer free versions, but they usually include limits on file size, daily tasks or advanced features.
Why can't I edit text in my PDF?
The PDF is likely a scanned image. You’ll need an editor with OCR (Optical Character Recognition) to convert it into editable text.
Are online PDF editors safe?
Most reputable tools use encryption and automatically delete files after a short time. For highly sensitive documents, offline editors provide extra control.
