Although PDFs are widely used and compatible with most operating systems, platforms, and devices, it gets tricky to edit them. That’s where PDF editors come in handy.
PDF editors are software that helps to create, convert, edit and share PDF documents. They turn PDF documents into editable, live documents ready for quick editing and creation.
You can get more work done with PDF files using a PDF editor. For example, if you wonder how to add bookmarks to PDF or add annotations, PDF editors can get the work done in an instant. But the question is which editor best suits your workflow and needs. The popular options for 2023 & beyond are outlined below.
PDF Candy
PDF Candy is the best free PDF editor compatible with Firefox, Chrome, Safari, Opera, and Edge. The editor stands out from the rest because of its OCR capabilities for scanning text, solid layout tools for PDFs, and expansive features for creating and converting files.
In this web-based PDF editor, you cannot edit OCR’d text. But you can upload PDF documents, extract the text, and create a Word document in both .docx and .doc formats.
To create or convert PDFs, you can choose from forty-four tools. The editor also makes it easier to add watermarks, rearrange the pages within a document, edit metadata within the PDF file, protect PDF files with passcodes, extract images, and more.
However, the actual text editing is limited.
Once you have finished editing the PDF document in PDF Candy, download the edited file or upload a new file to work on. The web-based editor keeps all the documents in a queue so they can be downloaded once you have made changes to them.
Adobe Acrobat Pro DC
Adobe Acrobat Pro DC remains the industry standard and is rated the best editor for Windows and Mac. It offers a rich combination of editing, creation, security, and reviewing features. The interface design is straightforward and intuitive, so users can quickly navigate the robust toolset. In addition, thanks to its cloud subscription, all the features of the software are within reach of more small businesses and individuals.
The software offers streamlined sharing features making it easier to fill PDF documents to get signatures.
The only reason why people avoid Acrobat Pro DC is the high subscription fee. But if you have the budget and require advanced PDF creation, editing, and security features, do not skip this software.
Xodo PDF Reader
If you want to edit PDF documents on the go, Xodo PDF Reader is one of the best options. The editor lets you edit PDF files on your Android tablet or phone. The tool is available to download for free.
Although the name may confuse you into thinking the app is only for reading PDFs, the tool lets you create and edit documents. Also, you can directly write on a document, underline and highlight text, sign documents, fill in forms, take notes on blank documents, etc.
The edits can be automatically synced with Google Drive, Dropbox, and OneDrive. Furthermore, you can use the app to open PowerPoint, Microsoft Office, and Excel files and then save them as PDF documents. Thanks to the Recent Files List and thumbnail previews, the app makes it easier to find the documents you need.
Even though the app is primarily optimized for Android phones and tablets, it is also available for Windows and iOS.
Nitro PDF Pro
Nitro PDF Pro is fully integrated with Nitro Cloud and is part of the Nitro Productivity Suite. The tool makes it easier to collaborate on PDF documents and secure signatures.
Since it is a web-based editor, it makes it more efficient to perform common editing tasks in the browser itself rather than toggling over to the desktop program. So the workflow becomes more straightforward and more efficient.
PDF Expert
PDF Expert is a macOS-only PDF editing tool that lets you make changes to the text in PDF documents, including replacing and removing pictures, adding text, or updating text. However, the tool lacks OCR capabilities, so you cannot edit the text in scanned documents.
The tool has a clean interface, and it is user-friendly. You can edit and annotate documents by clicking the appropriate tools.
pdfFiller
pdfFiller is one of the best browser-based PDf editors that let you accomplish everything. This web-based editor can edit, share, store, and secure your PDF files. Also, the web interface is intuitive and straightforward.
The editor features a comprehensive set of tools for business and personal use. However, all the features are not available for free, but you can choose from three subscription tiers.
The Bottom Line
These are the top PDF editors for 2023 & beyond. Browse through their features and subscription plans to make your choice. The right PDF editor will make it easier for you to create and manage PDFs.
