--- description: Most visitors (like you) searching for open-source PDF editors are not looking to edit the tool's source code but want FREE options to edit their PDF files. title: 7 Best Open-Source PDF Editors (2026) image: https://www.guru99.com/images/best-open-source-pdf-editors.png --- [Skip to content](#main) [](https://guru99.click/28a918) Most visitors (like you) searching for open-source PDF editors are not looking to edit the tool’s source code but want **FREE** options to edit their PDF files. Paid PDF Editors tools could be pricey, while open-source PDF tools could have limited features. In over 60 hours of research, I have meticulously reviewed 20+ Best Open-Source PDF Editors, presenting a well-rounded selection of free and paid tools. This insightful and credible guide includes unbiased details on each editor’s features, pros and cons, and comprehensive pricing options. This may help you find your ultimate PDF editor. Explore the full article to access trusted and exclusive information on today’s top PDF editing solutions. [ Read more…](javascript:myFunction%28%29) Editor's Choice [ ](https://guru99.click/28a918 "Adobe Acrobat") [ Adobe Acrobat ](https://guru99.click/28a918 "Adobe Acrobat") Adobe invented the PDF, and their Acrobat product is the market’s most popular PDF editor tool. You can also use it to create, secure, and distribute PDF files. It can automatically detect multiple fields and allows you to insert symbols, texts, or signatures. [ Visit Adobe Acrobat ](https://guru99.click/28a918 "Adobe Acrobat") ## Best Open-Source PDF Editor Tools | Tool Name | Best for | Free Trial | Link | | -------------------------------------------------------- | ---------------------------------- | --------------------------- | ------------------------------------------------------ | | [Adobe Acrobat](https://guru99.click/28a918) | Side-by-side PDF comparison | 7 Days Free Trial | [Learn More](https://guru99.click/28a918) | | [Ashampoo PDF Pro 3](https://guru99.click/4fbea5) | Adding texts/images/shapes to PDFs | Lifetime Free Basic Version | [Learn More](https://guru99.click/4fbea5) | | [PDFfiller](https://partnerstack.signnow.com/brhi4) | Signing forms online | 30 Days Free Trial | [Learn More](https://partnerstack.signnow.com/brhi4) | | [IceCream Apps PDF Editor](https://guru99.click/x1p2jd) | Rearranging pages of documents | Free Download | [Learn More](https://guru99.click/x1p2jd) | | [PDFSam Basic](https://pdfsam.org/download-pdfsam-basic) | Mixing PDF files | Free Basic Version | [Learn More](https://pdfsam.org/download-pdfsam-basic) | ### 1) [Adobe Acrobat](https://guru99.click/28a918) **Best for side-by-side PDF comparison** [Adobe](https://guru99.click/28a918) Acrobat is perfect for editing and managing PDFs. During my research, I found that it is one of the most popular tools businesses aim to use for viewing and signing PDF files. It is helpful to edit files on browsers, desktops, and mobile devices. The ability to store files in Adobe Document Cloud is, in fact, a great option. It allows you to create, secure, and distribute files with ease. I discovered that it detects fields and symbols automatically, making it easy to add texts or signatures. The tool also includes an OCR feature, allowing you to edit text and images effortlessly. #1 Top Pick [ ](https://guru99.click/28a918 "Adobe Acrobat") [ Adobe Acrobat ](https://guru99.click/28a918 "Adobe Acrobat") 5.0 **OCR Feature:** Yes **Edit Text and Images:** Yes **Supported Platforms:** Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android **Free Trial:** 7-Day Free Trial [ Visit Adobe Acrobat ](https://guru99.click/28a918 "Adobe Acrobat") #### Features: * **File Viewing:** I am able to view, store, and share PDFs with ease, which is a reliable PDF management solution. * **Annotations:** This allows you to annotate and print files, making document personalization accessible and efficient. * **PDF Security:** Password-locking ensures your PDFs remain secure, one of the best ways to protect information. * **Recognize Text:** The text recognition feature allows you to digitize physical documents for easy editing and searching. * **Scan Documents:** Document scanning makes it simple to digitize physical copies, great for record-keeping. * **Format Adaptability:** Converts PDFs to other formats, helpful to meet varied file format needs. #### Pros * Allows for third-party integrations * Has several collaboration tools * Allows you to quickly craft your own digital signature with ease * It helps you to extract text from PDF pages #### Cons * Does not let you access control/permissions in PDF reader mode * I noticed that it does not include a data synchronization feature, making it less efficient for me #### Pricing: * **Pricing:** Plan starting at $19.99/ per month. Discounts on yearly payment. * **Free Trial:** 7 Days Free Trial [Visit Adobe Acrobat](https://guru99.click/28a918) 7-Day Free Trial --- ### 2) [Ashampoo PDF Pro 3](https://guru99.click/4fbea5) **Best for adding texts/images and shapes** [Ashampoo PDF Pro 3](https://guru99.click/4fbea5) is a remarkable PDF editor tool that I reviewed, and that helps me create, edit, and convert files online. During my research, I discovered that it includes almost all the needed features. I particularly appreciate the multi-language support, which boosts its popularity worldwide. You can export edited PDFs to Word, HTML, or text, which is helpful. OCR support, text, and image editing are all supported on the Windows platform. #2 [ ](https://guru99.click/4fbea5 "Ashampoo PDF Pro 3") [ Ashampoo PDF Pro 3 ](https://guru99.click/4fbea5 "Ashampoo PDF Pro 3") 4.9 **OCR Feature:** Yes **Edit Text and Images:** Yes **Supported Platforms:** Windows **Free Trial:** Lifetime Free Basic Plan [ Visit Ashampoo ](https://guru99.click/4fbea5 "Ashampoo PDF Pro 3") #### Features: * **Document Security:** I could see its protection features are essential for keeping PDFs safe from unauthorized access. * **PDF Customization:** Ashampoo allows adding text, images, and shapes, offering a great way to enhance visual content. * **Visual Adjustment:** It lets you customize text, link sizes, colors, and font styles, which is excellent for readability. * **Access Restriction:** Setting passwords on PDFs is one of the easiest ways to protect sensitive files. * **File Management:** This tool enables efficient handling of PDFs by allowing splitting, merging, and compressing to organize large documents. It also includes a flattening feature, essential for securing finalized documents and preventing any further edits during sharing. #### Pros * I liked how it allows for seamless Dropbox integration, which makes file access easier * Smart and intuitive, easy-to-use interface * Allows processing of unlimited batches #### Cons * The latest version of the software is only available for Windows OS * I was disappointed by the limited text-editing options, which restrict functionality for more detailed edits #### Pricing: * **Pricing:** $44 One-time Payment, No Time Limit * **Free Trial:** Lifetime Free Basic Version [Visit Ashampoo >>](https://guru99.click/4fbea5) Lifetime Free Basic Version --- ### 3) [PDFfiller](https://partnerstack.signnow.com/brhi4) **Best for filling forms online** [PDFfiller](https://partnerstack.signnow.com/brhi4) is one of the best PDF editors I reviewed. I suggest it because it makes editing, creating, and managing PDF files simple. Its tools for organization are helpful, and it allows me to save documents on the Cloud. According to my research, it is an ideal tool for filling out forms. It lets you add or remove text, add checkmarks, and annotate parts of PDF files. Edit text and images and keep the original format. #3 [ ](https://partnerstack.signnow.com/brhi4 "PDFfiller") [ PDFfiller ](https://partnerstack.signnow.com/brhi4 "PDFfiller") 4.8 **OCR Feature:** No **Edit Text and Images:** Yes **Supported Platforms:** Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android. **Free Trial:** 30-Day Free Trial [ Visit PDFfiller ](https://partnerstack.signnow.com/brhi4 "PDFfiller") #### Features: * **Merge PDFs Easily:** This feature allows you to effortlessly merge multiple PDF files into one document. * **Bulk Extraction:** You can extract the content of PDF files in bulk, making data management straightforward for me. * **Flexible Export Options:** Exports are possible in formats like Word, Excel, PowerPoint, JPG, PNG, TIFF, and RTF. * **Form Filling & Payments:** Collect data and payments easily, with efficient filling of digital forms. * **Page Removal:** Remove unnecessary pages from documents with this option, simplifying your file organization. * **Platform Compatibility:** Supported on Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android, making it a great option for various devices. #### Pros * It lets you instantly share PDFs and simplifies the form-filling process, which I found convenient * It offers end-to-end document solutions and has an API * It offers a handy spellcheck function #### Cons * I struggled initially as it has a steep learning curve that requires time to master * Some key editing features are missing #### Pricing: * **Pricing:** Plan starting at $8.30 per month. * **Free Trial:** 30 Days Free Trial [Visit PDFfiller >>](https://partnerstack.signnow.com/brhi4) 30-Day Free Trial --- ### 4) [IceCream Apps PDF Editor](https://guru99.click/x1p2jd) **Best for rearranging pages of documents** [IceCream Apps PDF Editor](https://guru99.click/x1p2jd) is a top-notch tool that I particularly like for editing and creating PDFs. In my opinion, it covers all the basic functions required in a PDF editor. It offers support for multiple languages and provides a training guide. I could add a password to secure my documents, and it allows you to insert links and watermarks. The OCR support for text and image editing keeps the original layout intact. Works with Windows 7, 8, 8.1, 10, and 11. [](https://guru99.click/x1p2jd) #### Features: * **Permission Settings:** I found it beneficial to set permissions, which helps to avoid unwanted edits to files. * **File Combination:** The tool allows you to merge files, which is a great way to consolidate documents. * **Commenting Tools:** Annotations are a great option for adding personal notes directly into the document. * **Page Orientation:** Rotate pages as needed, which may help ensure each page is properly aligned. * **Authentic Signatures:** Digitally verified signatures are essential for securing document authenticity. * **Export Options:** Export edited PDFs to formats like JPG, PNG, TIFF, and RTF, which is perfect for compatibility. #### Pros * It can be used by freelancers, small and large businesses, and large enterprises * Allows you to comment/make notes in PDFs * I was able to merge PDF files effortlessly, which is a phenomenal feature for organizing files #### Cons * I was not pleased with its absence of electronic signature functionality, which reduces its practicality * Does not let you compare PDFs side-by-side #### Pricing: * **Pricing:** $99 for a lifetime plan. * **Free Trial:** Free Download [Visit IceCream Apps](https://guru99.click/x1p2jd) Download for Free --- ### 5) [PDFSam Basic](https://pdfsam.org/download-pdfsam-basic) **Best for mixing PDF files** PDFSam Basic is a remarkable Open-Source PDF editor I tested, allowing me to combine files and arrange pages easily. According to my review, it offers all the essential features like compressing, cropping, and splitting pages. I particularly appreciate its page extraction, resizing, and repair functions. The tool ensures that documents remain private on your computer without needing an upload. You can encrypt, decrypt, and mix pages. It includes OCR, and keeps the original layout while editing text and images. It is compatible with Windows, Mac OS, and Linux. ![PDFSam]() #### Features: * **Comprehensive History:** Maintaining a complete editing history is helpful for reviewing past changes and avoiding editing errors. * **Document Scanning:** I was able to scan documents directly, which is perfect for storing digital versions securely. * **Organize Files:** This tool’s document management feature is one of the easiest ways to keep files organized. * **Flexible Export:** Export edited PDFs in Word, PowerPoint, Excel, HTML, text, or image formats, which allows wider usability. * **PDF Compilation:** Merge PDFs seamlessly, which is a great way to compile various files into a single document. * **Field Editing:** Field Function features allow advanced form editing, which is essential for creating professional documents. #### Pros * It is a user-friendly, reliable, and versatile tool capable of high-quality resolutions * I enjoyed that it provides essential services completely free, a great benefit for budget-conscious users #### Cons * There is a bug that makes duplicate icons of the tool appear at times after usage * I was frustrated by the constant prompts to upgrade to PDFSam Enhanced, which disrupted my workflow #### Pricing: * **Pricing:** Free Basic Version **Link:** --- ### 6) [PDFedit](http://pdfedit.cz/en/support.html) **Best for the ability to convert documents with a single click** I analyzed PDFedit, an open-source PDF editor software. It provided me with various tools for modifying PDF documents. According to my review, it has a graphical interface and a set of command-line tools, which makes it versatile. I was able to delete or add text and images by choosing the section I wanted to work on. The interface is based on QT3.x, and the features are built with a scripting language. Text and image editing is supported. ![PDFEdit]() #### Features: * **Effortless Conversion:** I liked the one-click conversion feature, which is a great option for quick file changes. * **Read & Edit:** This tool works as both a PDF reader and editor, which might be helpful for flexibility. * **Version Handling:** It supports multiple PDF versions, providing a solution for working across different PDF standards. * **Supported OS:** The tool works on Windows and Mac OS, which is essential for compatibility on common platforms. #### Pros * I appreciated the multi-platform support, which lets me work efficiently on various devices * You can convert files to other formats * It has many more advanced options available #### Cons * I observed that it does not include advanced editing options, which may not meet all needs #### Pricing: * **Pricing:** Free and open source tool **Link:** --- ### 7) [LibreOffice Draw](https://www.libreoffice.org/discover/draw/) **Best for presentations** LibreOffice Draw is an impressive Open-Source PDF editor tool I checked. It helps me create anything from a simple sketch to a complex plan. In my opinion, it is a great way to visually convey ideas using diagrams and graphics. The maximum page size of 300×300 cm is helpful for making posters and brochures. Text and image editing is included, and it keeps the original layout. ![LibreOffice]() #### Features: * **Image Editing:** I appreciated the photo editing feature, which is a great way to refine images seamlessly. * **Spreadsheet Integration:** This tool streamlines workflow with spreadsheet support, which is helpful for structured task management. * **Design Tools:** Allows creation of 3D objects and vector graphics, providing all you need for visual design. * **Relationship Mapping:** Connect objects to map relationships, which might be helpful for illustrating complex ideas clearly. * **Multi-Platform Support:** Works on Android, iOS, Windows, and Mac OS, which is perfect for varied device compatibility. #### Pros * Easy-to-learn functions and features * Lets you apply customizations with coding, making it ideal for creating unique configurations * It allows you to interact with graphics and drawings and lets you render them in 3D #### Cons * I was unhappy with the bug in the menu button that causes it to appear in random places #### Pricing: * **Pricing:** Free and open source tool **Link:** ## How Did We Choose Best Open-Source PDF Editors? [](https://www.guru99.com/images/choose-best-open-source-pdf-editors.png) At **Guru99**, we focus on delivering credible and objective information. Check out below important factors. With over 60 hours of meticulous research, we reviewed 20+ of the **best open-source PDF editors**, covering both free and paid options. This guide provides unbiased insights into each editor’s features, pros and cons, and pricing options, helping you find your ideal PDF editing solution. Open-source PDF editors offer flexibility and control, and we selected these top picks based on essential factors to meet your document needs. * **Pricing/Free Trial –** A free trial is an ideal way to understand the tool. Pricing needs to be competitive. Good apps which have sky-high prices are not cost-effective. However, cheap options will not provide you with adequate features. So, we tried to strike a balance between these. * **Digital Sign–**Signing Documents is a digital necessity in today’s day and age. And a good editing tool should let you sign a document online. * **Ability to create/edit/share PDFs –** Just editing isn’t enough. We should look for tools that will allow you to create, edit, and share documents online. * **OCR –** [OCR](https://www.guru99.com/free-ocr-software-tools.html) stands for optical character recognition. This feature is also known as the text recognition feature. * **Collaboration feature –** This feature allows you to collaborate with multiple PDF files. It comes in handy when you are working on multiple PDFs. * **Compatibility:** It is important that these editors support multiple operating systems, allowing for broader accessibility. * **Security:** We paid attention to options with encryption features to help protect sensitive documents. ## Verdict In my experience, finding the right open-source PDF editor is essential for efficient document management. With the myriad of options available, each tool has unique strengths, making it easier to choose based on specific needs. Check my verdict below for insights into top-rated PDF editors. * [Adobe Acrobat](https://guru99.click/28a918) is a comprehensive and user-friendly choice, offering features from digital signatures to cloud-based document storage and powerful OCR capabilities. * [Ashampoo PDF Pro 3](https://guru99.click/4fbea5) is robust, particularly for adding text and images, with customizable features and batch processing options that cater to detailed PDF management. * [PDFfiller](https://partnerstack.signnow.com/brhi4) is one of the best PDF editors I reviewed. I suggest it because it makes editing, creating, and managing PDF files simple. Editor's Choice [ ](https://guru99.click/28a918 "Adobe Acrobat") [ Adobe Acrobat ](https://guru99.click/28a918 "Adobe Acrobat") Adobe invented the PDF, and their Acrobat product is the market’s most popular PDF editor tool. You can also use it to create, secure, and distribute PDF files. It can automatically detect multiple fields and allows you to insert symbols, texts, or signatures. [ Visit Adobe Acrobat ](https://guru99.click/28a918 "Adobe Acrobat") #### Summarize this post with: ChatGPT Perplexity Grok Google AI **Stay Updated on AI** **Get Weekly AI Skills, Trends, Actionable Advice.** ##### Sign up for the newsletter Subscribe for Free You have successfully subscribed. Please check your inbox. ![AI-Newsletter]() Chosen by over **350,000+** professionals [Scroll to top ](#wrapper)Scroll to top Toggle Menu Close Search for: Search ```json {"@context":"https://schema.org","@graph":[{"@type":"Organization","@id":"https://www.guru99.com/#organization","name":"Guru99","sameAs":["https://www.facebook.com/Guru99Official","https://twitter.com/guru99com"],"logo":{"@type":"ImageObject","@id":"https://www.guru99.com/#logo","url":"https://www.guru99.com/images/guru99-logo-v1-150x59.png","contentUrl":"https://www.guru99.com/images/guru99-logo-v1-150x59.png","caption":"Guru99","inLanguage":"en-US"}},{"@type":"WebSite","@id":"https://www.guru99.com/#website","url":"https://www.guru99.com","name":"Guru99","publisher":{"@id":"https://www.guru99.com/#organization"},"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"ImageObject","@id":"https://www.guru99.com/images/best-open-source-pdf-editors.png","url":"https://www.guru99.com/images/best-open-source-pdf-editors.png","width":"705","height":"250","inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"BreadcrumbList","@id":"https://www.guru99.com/open-source-pdf-editors.html#breadcrumb","itemListElement":[{"@type":"ListItem","position":"1","item":{"@id":"https://www.guru99.com","name":"Home"}},{"@type":"ListItem","position":"2","item":{"@id":"https://www.guru99.com/business-analyst","name":"Business Analyst"}},{"@type":"ListItem","position":"3","item":{"@id":"https://www.guru99.com/business-analyst/productivity-tools-business-analyst","name":"Productivity Tools"}},{"@type":"ListItem","position":"4","item":{"@id":"https://www.guru99.com/business-analyst/productivity-tools-business-analyst/free-productivity-tools-business-analyst","name":"Free"}},{"@type":"ListItem","position":"5","item":{"@id":"https://www.guru99.com/open-source-pdf-editors.html","name":"7 Best Open-Source PDF Editors (2026)"}}]},{"@type":"WebPage","@id":"https://www.guru99.com/open-source-pdf-editors.html#webpage","url":"https://www.guru99.com/open-source-pdf-editors.html","name":"7 Best Open-Source PDF Editors (2026)","dateModified":"2026-04-29T13:34:07+05:30","isPartOf":{"@id":"https://www.guru99.com/#website"},"primaryImageOfPage":{"@id":"https://www.guru99.com/images/best-open-source-pdf-editors.png"},"inLanguage":"en-US","breadcrumb":{"@id":"https://www.guru99.com/open-source-pdf-editors.html#breadcrumb"}},{"@type":"Article","headline":"7 Best Open-Source PDF Editors (2026)","description":"Most visitors (like you) searching for open-source PDF editors are not looking to edit the tool's source code but want FREE options to edit their PDF files.","name":"7 Best Open-Source PDF Editors (2026)","articleSection":"Business Analyst, Free, Productivity Tools","subjectOf":[{"@type":"FAQPage","mainEntity":[{"@type":"Question","name":"\u2753 What are the best open-source PDF Editors?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Here are some best Open-Source PDF Editors: \tAdobe Acrobat \tPDF Filler \tIceCream Apps PDF Editor \tAshampoo PDF Pro 3 \tPDFSam Basic"}},{"@type":"Question","name":"\ud83c\udfc5 How to select a PDF Editor?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"

Every tool comes with its own set of pros and cons. The trick here is to list your requirements and see which fits the bill. In this section, let us look closely at the criterion for selecting an Open-Source PDF Editor.

  • Pricing/Free Trial - A free trial is an ideal way to understand the tool. Pricing needs to be competitive. Good apps which have sky-high prices are not cost-effective. However, cheap options will not provide you with adequate features. So, we tried to strike a balance between these.
  • Digital Sign\u2013Signing Documents is a digital necessity in today's day and age. And a good editing tool should let you sign a document online.
  • Ability to create/edit/share PDFs - Just editing isn't enough. We should look for tools that will allow you to create, edit, and share documents online.
  • OCR - OCR stands for optical character recognition. This feature is also known as the text recognition feature.
  • Collaboration feature - This feature allows you to collaborate with multiple PDF files. It comes in handy when you are working on multiple PDFs.
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