How to Sign a PDF without Adobe

Despite what you may think about signing PDFs, you don’t need Adobe Acrobat to sign one quickly and securely. For many, Adobe can feel expensive and complex.

The good news? If you don't have or want to use Adobe, there are still e-signing tools to help you sign documents digitally instead.

Xodo Sign is one of them. It offers secure signing, audit tracking, and multi-party signing features. No heavy software or complexity.

We'll show you how to sign PDF files without Adobe using Xodo Sign online, along with additional options through your browser and mobile device.

Sign PDFs online with Xodo Sign

To digitally sign your PDF online without Adobe Acrobat, follow these easy steps:

1. Create your Xodo Sign account

• Start a free trial for 7 days with Xodo Sign (no credit card required).

A free trial will allow you to explore all of Xodo Sign's features at your own pace. Once your trial expires, your account will change to the Free plan.

2. Upload your PDF to Xodo Sign

• From your Dashboard, navigate to Documents and click the + icon.
• Select Choose Files and upload your file.
• Or drag and drop a PDF into the upload box.
• You can also import a file from your cloud storage.

‍

3. Add signers and set document options

• Choose who signs the PDF: Just You, You and Others, or Others Only.
• Enter each person’s name and email address.
• Assign Signer or CC roles.
• Include a signing order, SMS or PIN authentication options.
• Set signing reminders, expiration dates, and form completion requirements.
• Add a message and subject line if you wish.
• Click on Prepare.

‍

4. Sign your document and add form fields

• Insert signature fields and form fields for yourself and each signer.
• Drag a Signature field onto the page.
• Click on your own signature field.
• Draw, type, or upload an image of your signature and click on Sign.
• Add any other form fields needed to add text, dates, initials, or checkboxes needed.
• Once finished, click on Send.

‍

5. Track and manage your document

• Return to your Documents tab to find and open your file.  
• Monitor the file's signing progress and send reminders.
• Once all signatures are collected, download the final signed version.
• Review the document's full history activity, by going to Actions > Audit Trail.

If you’re interested in alternatives to other e-signing tools, you can explore our guide on signing a PDF without DocuSign.

Why use Xodo Sign as an Adobe alternative

Many people compare Xodo Sign with Adobe Acrobat when they need a straightforward way to sign documents. Both tools let you add an electronic signature and manage files online, but they work very differently.

Here's where Xodo Sign can offer a better experience for anyone who wants a faster signing process without extra software:                                                                          

1. Simpler and faster to use

Xodo Sign offers a clean interface and a short learning curve, so users can prepare and sign documents without navigating complex menus.

2. More affordable for small teams

Pricing is lighter and easier to scale than Acrobat. Xodo Sign's pricing plans can, thus, be a more practical choice for individuals, business teams, and growing organizations.

3. Easier for external signers

It's faster for clients and partners to sign without needing an account or dealing with large software downloads.

4. Streamlined documents and workflow

Xodo Sign keeps the signing process focused: upload a file, add form fields, send the document, and track signatures. No bulky extras or features that slow users down.

5. Better experience for everyday signing needs

For users who mainly need to sign PDFs, collect signatures, and manage a simple digital workflow, Xodo Sign feels more straightforward than Acrobat’s broader, more complex suite.

Xodo Sign suits people who want a direct way to prepare and sign documents. It keeps the process simple, so you can focus on getting files signed without extra steps.

Sign PDFs on your device using Xodo Mobile

Another way to sign PDFs without Adobe is by using the Xodo Mobile app on your device. First, download and install the Xodo Mobile app on your iOS phone or Android device, then follow these steps:

1. Open the app and upload your PDF file.
2. From the Files list, tap on your document to open it.
3. Tap the drop down menu and choose Fill and Sign.
4. Tap on the Signature Tool > Create signature.
5. Draw, type, or upload a signature image, then tap on Done.
6. Tap on the page to place your signature digitally.
7. Tap Back to save your signed PDF.

‍

Because the app doesn’t generate comprehensive audit trails or produce legally binding e-signatures, this method is only useful for quickly signing off on approvals in just a few seconds.  

Sign PDF files using a built-in browser tools

Most browser apps support basic signing features, which means you can sign PDFs online in Microsoft Edge, Chrome, or Firefox without Adobe. Here's a quick look at the process:

Microsoft Edge

1. Open your PDF in Edge.
2. Click on the Draw tool in the top menu.  
3. Use your mouse or touchscreen to manually draw your signature.
4. Save the file by clicking the disk icon or pressing Ctrl+S.

Chrome

1. Open your PDF in Chrome.
2. Click the Draw icon to activate the drawing tool.
3. Sign your signature using your mouse or trackpad.
4. Download the signed version.

Firefox

1. Open your PDF in Firefox.
2. Select Add signature > Add new signature.
3. Draw, type, or upload a signature.
4. Click Add to place it.

Each browser will let you customize your signature's appearance, save your file, and share your signed PDF by email after it has been signed. This method is a quick way to sign PDFs, but note that it lacks advanced security and tracking needed for e-signing PDFs requiring validation.

For more details, check out our guide on signing PDFs in a browser.

Commonly asked questions  

How can I electronically sign a PDF document?

Use an e-signing tool like Xodo Sign to sign PDF documents and create an electronic signature and placing it anywhere in the PDF document.

How can I sign a PDF without Adobe?

You can sign PDFs using online tools like Xodo Sign, mobile apps like Xodo Mobile, or your browser’s built‑in PDF signing tools.

Are electronic signatures created with Xodo Sign legally valid?

Yes. Electronic signatures created with Xodo Sign meet compliance and legal requirements in the United States and the European Union. They follow ESIGN and UETA regulations in the U.S. and eIDAS rules in the EU.

How do you sign a PDF for free?

Xodo Sign and most browser tools let you sign PDFs at no cost. Xodo Sign offers a free trial so you can start signing PDFs free with its e-signing tools.

How do I unlock a PDF so I can sign it?

If the PDF has a password, you’ll need it to remove restrictions. Once unlocked, the file can be signed in your preferred tool. If the document has creator‑level restrictions, only the original owner can remove them.

How do I put a handwritten signature on a PDF?

Open your PDF and use a signature tool like Xodo Sign that lets you draw your signature with your mouse, trackpad, or touchscreen. You can also save your signature and use it again whenever you need it.

Can I fill out a PDF form online for free?

Yes. Free PDF signing tools let you fill out forms by adding text, checkmarks, and dates.

Final Thoughts

You don't need Adobe to approve forms, manage and sign agreements, or collect signatures from others.

With all of its heavy-hitting e-signing tools, Xodo Sign is a good Adobe alternative. You get ability to add legally binding signatures, access comprehensive audit trails, and manage multi-signing workflows, individually or as part of a team.

Streamline how you sign PDF documents. See how easy it can be to sign PDFs without Adobe.

Join Xodo Sign today.  

‍