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I Tested 8 Best Electronic Signature Software: Results Inside

January 15, 2025

best-e-signature-software

It all started when I was buried under a mountain of paperwork that needed signatures—fast. My inbox was flooded with contract requests, approval forms, and freelancer agreements. I was printing, signing, scanning, and emailing back and forth like I was stuck in a time warp from 2005. It wasn’t just time-consuming—it was downright exhausting.

After one particularly chaotic day, I realized something had to change. I needed a way to simplify this process, and getting the best e-signature software seemed like the perfect solution. 

However, with so many tools promising to “revolutionize” workflows, I didn’t want to pick the first one that came up in a Google search. I wanted the best electronic signature software for my needs—one that combined simplicity, security, and efficiency.

So, I did what any curious person would do: I dove headfirst into research and testing. Over the past few months, I’ve explored dozens of e-signature tools, putting them through their paces to see how they stack up. I tested everything—from user interfaces and integrations to pricing and customer support. I even tried signing real contracts with them to see how they fit into my daily workflows.

Now, I’m here to share my findings. Whether you’re running a business, managing a team, or just looking for a tool to make life a little easier, I’ve got you covered. These are the 8 best e-signature software I’ve personally tested and selected after trying 30+ solutions. 

8 best e-signature software I recommend

When I first started exploring e-signature software, I wasn’t sure what to expect. I mean, what exactly makes one e-signature app better than another? 

At its core, e-signature software allows me to sign documents electronically. But it’s not just about adding a squiggly line to a PDF—it’s about ensuring that my signature is secure, legally binding, and incredibly easy to execute.

For me, the real magic of these tools lies in their ability to facilitate the entire document-signing process. Instead of printing, signing, scanning, and emailing, I can sign or request a digital signature with just a few clicks. And it’s not limited to my end—these tools make it just as seamless for the other party to sign, no matter where they are.

I also love how e-signature software adds layers of security and verification. Many platforms use encryption, audit trails, and identity authentication to ensure your signed documents meet legal standards. This means that whether you're signing a contract, closing a deal, or onboarding a new hire, you can rest assured that the process will stand up to scrutiny.

How did I find and evaluate the best e-signature software?

I started by listing must-have criteria for the best electronic signature software. My goal was to find platforms that were not only reliable but also easy to use and adaptable for different workflows. To refine my list, I turned to G2 grid reports and used AI to analyze hundreds of G2 reviews to see how real users rated these tools based on their experiences, needs, and pain points.

 

Once I had my contenders, I got hands-on with each tool. I signed real documents, sent contracts for signatures, and explored their features in-depth. I tested how smoothly they integrated with other apps I use, like Google Drive and Slack, and paid close attention to how the tools handled mobile signing since that’s a big part of my workflow.

By the end of my testing, I had a clear sense of which tools excelled and which fell short, giving me a solid foundation to recommend the best options.

What makes the best e-signature software worth it? My assessment

When I started testing e-signature software, I thought the choice would come down to a few simple features—how easy it was to sign a document, how quickly I could send one, and maybe the price tag. But as I dug deeper, I realized that the best tools do much more than just replace a pen.

With all that in mind, I set out to identify the factors that truly separate the great tools from the mediocre ones. Here’s what I found to be the most important:

  • User experience: The best electronic signature software is designed with the end user in mind. The process should be intuitive from the moment you upload a document to the point it’s signed. I looked for clean, straightforward interfaces that didn’t require a tutorial. Drag-and-drop functionality for adding signature fields was a big plus, as was the ability to preview and adjust documents before sending.
  • Security and compliance: Security isn’t negotiable when dealing with legally binding documents. I paid close attention to tools that offered encryption protocols (like AES-256), robust authentication options (two-factor authentication, identity verification), and detailed audit trails. Compliance with legal standards like eIDAS, ESIGN, and UETA was another must-have, ensuring signatures are valid and enforceable in court.
  • Document workflow automation: Signing is just one part of the puzzle—getting documents to the right people and tracking their status is equally important. I evaluated how well the tools handled sending documents to multiple signers, setting signing orders, and sending automated reminders. The ability to create reusable templates for frequently signed documents saved even more time.
  • Integration capabilities: A good e-signature tool should fit seamlessly into your existing workflows. I tested how easily these platforms integrated with apps I already use, like Google Workspace, Microsoft 365, Dropbox, and Slack. API access for custom integrations was a bonus for teams with more complex needs.
  • Speed and performance: Nobody has time to wait for sluggish uploads or laggy interfaces. I noticed how quickly documents were uploaded, processed, and sent, even with large files. I also tested the platforms' responsiveness during busy periods, like sending out multiple contracts simultaneously.
  • Custom branding options: Maintaining a consistent brand image is important for professionals and businesses. I looked for tools that allowed custom branding, such as adding logos, colors, and personalized email templates to make the signing experience feel polished and professional.
  • Advanced features: Some tools offered advanced options like bulk sending for multiple recipients, in-person signing (think tablets at events), and conditional logic to customize workflows. While not essential for everyone, these features can be ideal for specific use cases.

The list below contains genuine user reviews from G2’s e-signature category page. To be included in this category, a solution must:

  • Allow both sender and recipient users to sign documents on a variety of devices and operating systems
  • Encrypt and secure communications and shared documents between the users of the solution
  • Track document status and notify users when actions are required (sign, approve, etc.)
  • Enable users to define user roles and permission rights internally and for external users (contractors, partners, customers, etc.)
  • Offer built-document creation and storage capabilities or integrate with third-party software solutions that provide document creation or storage features

*This data was pulled from G2 in 2025. Some reviews may have been edited for clarity.  

1. Docusign

When managing electronic signatures, DocuSign is often the first name that comes to mind—and for good reason. 

DocuSign makes signing documents ridiculously easy. Whether on my laptop or using the mobile app, it’s a matter of a few clicks to upload, add signature fields, and send a document off for signing. The user interface is clean and intuitive; even first-timers can figure it out without much effort. I especially appreciate how seamless it is to track the progress of a document—you’ll know exactly when it’s been viewed, signed, and completed.

DocuSign

Another thing I love about DocuSign is how reliable it feels. It complies with legal standards like eIDAS, ESIGN, and UETA, which means the signatures are legally binding and secure. They also provide detailed audit trails, so you have all the necessary proof in one place if there's a dispute.

One standout feature is the bulk send capability, which lets me simultaneously send the same document to multiple recipients. This feature is perfect for large-scale agreements or onboarding processes. Another hidden gem is the smart sections feature, which dynamically adjusts documents based on recipient input, making complex forms easier to manage.

The integration options are another big plus. DocuSign works well with the platforms I use, making it easy to pull documents from wherever they’re stored and send them for signing without switching between apps. 

DocuSign-feature

I’ve used DocuSign extensively, and while it has plenty of standout features, it’s not without its quirks. One of the biggest downsides is its pricing. While it offers powerful features, the cost can add up quickly, especially if you need advanced options like bulk sending or custom branding. For smaller businesses or freelancers, this might feel like a stretch.

Another area where DocuSign falls short is in search and organization. Finding specific signed documents can be more cumbersome than it should be. While user-friendly overall, the interface could benefit from better document organization tools.

I’ve also encountered a few technical hiccups. On rare occasions, the system glitches—errors when uploading files or delays in processing signatures. It’s not a dealbreaker, but it can be frustrating, especially when working against a tight deadline.

What I like about Docusign:

  • Signing documents is ridiculously easy, whether on my laptop or mobile app. The drag-and-drop functionality for adding signature, date, and custom fields makes the process smooth and intuitive.
  • I love sending the same document to multiple recipients simultaneously, which is perfect for large-scale agreements or onboarding processes.

What G2 users like about Docusign:

“Docusign is integrated with Salesforce, and it is easy for us to send documents for the signature process, capture the signatures in the documents, and maintain everything based on the workflow we create in the same record for tracking purposes. We also track how many people the signature request has been sent to and a log of parties that signed the document.”

 

- Docusign Review, Alekhya K.

What I dislike about Docusign:
  • I felt like finding specific signed documents was more cumbersome than it should be. A more robust tagging and search feature would go a long way in improving document management.
  • Occasionally, I’ve encountered system errors, like issues uploading files or delays in processing signatures. While not frequent, these glitches were disruptive during time-sensitive tasks.
What G2 users dislike about Docusign:

“Documents voiding out is the only issue I have with the process. I know that documents cannot stay open forever, but I don't get any kind of notification that my document is about to expire like subs receive when their document is set to expire, so that would be helpful, in my opinion.”

- Docusign Review, Jennifer E.

Is DocuSign safe for your e-signature needs? Learn about its safety features, encryption standards, and industry compliance in our detailed breakdown.

2. Adobe Acrobat

Adobe Acrobat is a heavyweight in the e-signature space, combining its renowned PDF tools with a robust suite of signing features. It’s a platform built for professionals who need more than just a signature tool—it’s an all-in-one solution for managing documents seamlessly and securely.

What I love about Adobe Acrobat for e-signatures is how polished and professional the process feels. Sending documents for signatures is incredibly straightforward, whether I’m working from my desktop or mobile app. I can add signature fields, customize workflows, and even collect multiple signatures in a specific order. The guided signing experience ensures recipients know exactly where to sign, reducing errors and back-and-forths.

Integration with other tools allows me to pull a file directly from cloud storage, add signature fields, and send it out in just a few clicks. It’s also great for teams—collaborating on documents, setting permissions, and tracking progress is built right into the platform.

Adobe Acrobat

Security is another area where Acrobat shines. I love that I can lock sensitive documents with passwords or even redact confidential information directly in the PDF. And when it comes to e-signatures, every action is meticulously logged in a detailed audit trail, so there’s never any doubt about the document’s authenticity.

Of course, no tool is perfect, and Acrobat has its quirks. For one, the sheer depth of features can feel daunting at first. It’s powerful, but getting up to speed took me some time. Also, the pricing might be a sticking point for some. While the features are worth it, the subscription can feel steep if you only use the basics. 

Lastly, while the mobile app is handy, it’s not quite as smooth for tasks like text edits or working with more intricate documents.

What I like about Adobe Acrobat:

  • The guided signing process is one of my favorite features. It ensures recipients sign in the correct places without confusion, reducing errors and saving me the trouble of follow-ups.
  • Its robust security features give me peace of mind. Knowing that my documents are password-protected, compliant with legal standards, and include detailed audit trails helps me handle sensitive files confidently.

What G2 users like about Adobe Acrobat:

“Adobe Document Cloud makes managing and sharing PDFs super easy. I love accessing my documents from anywhere and collaborating with others in real time. The e-signature feature is a game-changer, especially when I need to get documents signed quickly without any hassle. The interface is pretty straightforward, making organizing everything smooth and stress-free.”

 

- Adobe Acrobat Review, Jim O.

What I dislike about Adobe Acrobat:
  • Learning to navigate all the advanced features took me a while. While powerful, the sheer number of tools can feel overwhelming for a new user like me.
  • I found the mobile app helpful, but it doesn’t offer the same smooth experience as the desktop version. Editing text or working with complex documents on a smaller screen can be frustrating.
What G2 users dislike about Adobe Acrobat:

“Adobe Acrobat can be quite expensive, especially for individual users or small businesses. The subscription model might not appeal to everyone. Adobe Acrobat can be demanding on system resources, which might affect the performance of other applications running simultaneously.”

- Adobe Acrobat Review, Raj A.

Navigating e-signature regulations can be tricky. Learn how to stay compliant with e-signature legal requirements.

3. PandaDoc

PandaDoc completely transformed how I manage my e-signature. It’s a dynamic tool that accelerates proposals, quotes, contracts, and more workflows. I’ve used it extensively, and what sets it apart isn’t just its ease of use and ability to adapt to diverse signing scenarios while keeping the process secure and professional.

One feature I absolutely rely on is PandaDoc’s sequential signing capability. This lets me set up workflows where multiple signers must sign in a specific order. It’s been a lifesaver when dealing with contracts or approvals that need hierarchical sign-offs. With just a few clicks, I can ensure that each party receives the document at the right stage, eliminating the confusion of handling parallel signers.

PandaDoc

The auto-reminders for pending signatures are super useful for me. Once a document is sent, PandaDoc monitors it for you, automatically nudging signers who haven’t completed their part. I no longer need to follow up manually with stakeholders, which saves me time and keeps my workflows moving smoothly.

What I also love about PandaDoc is its embedded signing feature. When I was a freelancer, I integrated this into my website for client agreements, allowing users to sign directly on the page without needing to download or email documents. It’s a seamless experience that makes me look incredibly polished and professional.

Another standout feature is its ability to handle multi-language support for e-signatures. I worked with clients across different regions, and PandaDoc allowed me to send documents in their preferred language, complete with localized signing instructions. It’s a small detail that goes a long way in creating a client-friendly experience.

Despite its strengths, PandaDoc isn’t without drawbacks. The signer authentication options could be more robust—while email verification works well, I’d love to see additional layers like SMS or biometric authentication for even greater security. Additionally, while the embedded signing feature is fantastic, setting it up initially required some technical know-how, which might be a hurdle for non-developers.

Additionally, while the analytics are detailed, they fall short in customizable reporting, limiting deeper data analysis. The pricing structure can also be a hurdle for smaller teams or infrequent users. The cost feels justified for power users but might deter those who don’t need all the advanced features.

What I like about PandaDoc :

  • The sequential signing workflows help me keep everything organized. Whether I’m getting approvals or working with internal stakeholders, it ensures everyone signs in the correct order without confusion or delays.
  • I love that PandaDoc takes the responsibility of follow-ups off my plate. The system sends timely nudges to signers, keeping projects moving without me having to send awkward emails.

What G2 users like about PandaDoc:

“What I like best about PandaDoc is how organized it is! I also like how when we apply the box for signatures, it changes colors to specify the person. It also allows you to like where the other person can add their payment info if we wish to request that. The contact list/book is also nice, the way it lets us add all info like email, phone numbers, name, etc. Oh, and when you send an attachment or file, the option at the end lets you type a message like a reminder. That's also neat.”

 

- PandaDoc Review, Diana E.

What I dislike about PandaDoc:
  • I’d love to see more options for added security beyond email verification, like SMS codes or biometric authentication.
  • While I appreciated the feature of embedded signing, setting it up as a new user was slightly challenging for me without technical expertise.
What G2 users dislike about PandaDoc:

“I think the downside of this one is when we need the signature in the middle of the box. Some users can draw the signature, but the placement is sometimes below and above the line or box. To be added feature must be: when a user tries to sign the docs and click accept and sign after that signature must be automatically in the middle of the box to be more user-friendly to some of the senior and not savvy.”

- PandDoc Review, John Wayne N.

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4. Jotform Sign

Having transitioned from freelancing to working as a content marketer, I’ve come to value tools that simplify processes without losing the personal touch. Jotform Sign stands out because it combines simplicity with flexibility, offering features that cater to personalized workflows and dynamic signing experiences. It’s not just another e-signature platform—it’s a customizable solution that adapts to how I work.

One feature I find genuinely unique is Jotform Sign’s interactive documents. Unlike static PDFs, I can create agreements or proposals where signers can make choices—like selecting pricing options or confirming details—that automatically tailor the rest of the document. It’s like giving clients control while keeping everything professional.

Jotform-Sign

Another standout is the auto-population from forms. As part of the Jotform ecosystem, I can gather client or vendor information through a Jotform form and feed that data directly into an agreement. This has been invaluable for campaigns requiring detailed client input, turning manual data entry into an automated, time-saving process.

For event-based work, Jotform Sign’s kiosk mode for in-person signing is a feature I’ve come to appreciate. It allows me to collect signatures during events using a tablet or shared device without needing paper forms. This is particularly helpful for collecting approvals or waivers at in-person campaigns or workshops.

Security-wise, Jotform Sign excels with multi-factor authentication (MFA) for sensitive documents. I can require email and SMS verification for added protection, which gives me peace of mind when handling confidential agreements. Additionally, the document version history ensures I can track every edit and version of a contract, preventing any confusion or disputes down the line.

On the downside, Jotform Sign’s dependency on the Jotform ecosystem might feel limiting for some. While the integration with Jotform Forms is powerful, users who don’t need form-building features might find it unnecessary. 

Another drawback is the limited offline capabilities—the tool relies heavily on an internet connection, making it less ideal for remote work in areas with poor connectivity. 

Lastly, while the interactive documents are fantastic, creating highly customized versions requires some effort upfront, which might not be ideal for quick turnarounds.

What I like about Jotform Sign:

  • The version history feature is perfect for tracking every edit and version of a contract. It helped me stay organized and provided clarity if changes were questioned.
  • The ability to pull data from Jotform Forms into contracts saved me hours of manual work and reduced errors in data entry.

What G2 users like about Jotform Sign:

“As a small but growing non-profit, we greatly value any platform that allows us to automate tasks and develop record keeping so that our team can stay focused on what matters most- our clients. Jotform Sign takes the grueling paperwork from the equation and produces quality documents and a digital trail for us when retaining clients. Couldn't recommend more!”

 

- Jotform Sign Review, Diana C.

What I dislike about Jotform Sign:
  • The tool shines when paired with Jotform Forms, but some features might seem unnecessary if you don’t need form-building.
  • With limited offline support, an internet connection is necessary for using Jotform Sign, which can be inconvenient for remote or on-the-go work.
What G2 users dislike about Jotform Sign:

“One area for improvement in Jotform Sign is the customization options for document templates. While it’s fairly easy to use, some design elements feel limited, especially when matching specific branding or formatting needs. Additionally, though the platform is generally intuitive, setting up more advanced workflows can occasionally feel less streamlined, requiring additional time and testing to ensure everything works smoothly. Some extra guidance or step-by-step tutorials for these complex setups would be a valuable addition.”

- Jotform Review, Rodolfo O.

5. Xodo Sign

Xodo Sign caught my attention for its lightweight yet feature-packed approach to e-signatures. Its intuitive design and features make it a perfect fit for anyone who needs to handle document signing quickly and efficiently without getting bogged down by unnecessary complexity.

One of Xodo Sign’s standout features is its real-time collaboration capability. Unlike other e-signature tools, this feature allows multiple people to simultaneously review, comment on, and sign a document. I’ve used it to fasten approvals on contracts and agreements, and it’s completely removed the hassle of back-and-forth edits. Everyone can see updates in real time, which keeps the process moving and ensures no miscommunication.

Xodo-Sign

The custom signing link feature is another game-changer for me. Instead of emailing individual documents, I can generate a unique link and share it however I want—via text, chat, or even a shared team platform. It’s quick and makes working with multiple signers in different locations effortless.

Xodo Sign also excels with its mobile-first approach. The mobile app is designed with ease of use in mind, allowing me to prepare, send, and sign documents directly from my phone. Whether in the office or on the go, I can handle contracts without missing a beat, and the experience is just as smooth as using the desktop version.

Another feature I rely on is document locking after signing. Once a document is signed, it’s automatically locked to prevent unauthorized changes, and an audit trail tracks all activity. This is a huge plus for maintaining document integrity and ensuring compliance with legal standards. The notification and reminder system is also worth highlighting. Xodo Sign automatically follows up with signers who haven’t completed their part, which saves me time and ensures deadlines are met without me having to nudge anyone manually.

That said, there are a few areas where Xodo Sign could improve. The template management options feel a bit limited. While creating a document from scratch is easy, having better tools to organize and reuse templates would save me even more time.

Additionally, while the mobile app is great for simple tasks, editing complex documents with multiple fields can feel restricted on smaller screens. The reporting features, while functional, could also offer more customization and deeper insights into document performance.

What I like about Xodo Sign :

  • I found the mobile app’s interface sleek and intuitive. It made managing signatures on the go super easy. Whether sending out documents or signing one myself, it’s smooth and reliable.
  • For me, knowing that signed documents are automatically locked and tracked ensures security and prevents unauthorized edits. This feature gives me complete confidence in the process.

What G2 users like about Xodo Sign:

“With about two years now spent with Xodo Sign, I can say that it's one of the best services out there concerning e-sign placement on documents. Everything's gone great about the platform, from the integration to notifications.”

 

- Xodo Sign Review, Muhammad K.

What I dislike about Xodo Sign:
  • There are no permissions for real-time collaboration. Everyone working on a document can edit all fields, which can be risky for sensitive sections restricted to specific collaborators.
  • I wish there were additional security features like SMS codes or ID verification for high-security documents instead of only email verification.
What G2 users dislike about Xodo Sign:

“The downside of Xodo Sign is that if you need to edit or update a contract, it needs to be completely canceled and resent. This sometimes confuses my clients who try to keep using the original contract sign link. No matter how small, the contract update also counts as a fully new contract in their system. You cannot edit an uploaded contract document. I also preferred the name Eversign over Xodo Sign. It went from a cool name to a strange name.”

- Xodo Sign Review, Mary A.

6. Dropbox Sign

Dropbox Sign (formerly HelloSign) offers a practical and efficient approach to e-signatures, making it a great choice for managing contracts and approvals. Its deep integration with Dropbox and straightforward tools make document signing and sharing quick and organized, particularly for those already familiar with Dropbox.

One feature I’ve come to rely on is the role-based team management. With Dropbox Sign, I can assign permissions to team members, control who can send documents, and track progress across the team. This has been invaluable for collaborative workflows where multiple people must contribute or approve before a document is finalized. It eliminates confusion and ensures accountability at every step.

Dropbox-Sign

The drag-and-drop editor is simple yet effective for preparing documents. Adding signature fields, checkboxes, and dates is fast and doesn’t require a steep learning curve. I’ve used it to prepare agreements and contracts, customizing fields for specific signers with ease. This functionality ensures that the right fields are always assigned to the right person.

What really sets Dropbox Sign apart is its direct integration with Dropbox. I can pull documents straight from my Dropbox folders, set them up for signing, and save the signed versions back into the same folder automatically. This seamless integration keeps everything organized and ensures I never have to waste time on uploads or downloads.

The request expiration feature is another valuable tool. Setting deadlines for signatures helps ensure that documents are signed promptly. It also sends automated reminders to signers, so I don’t have to worry about following up manually. This has kept my projects on schedule without requiring additional effort.

That said, there are a few areas where Dropbox Sign falls short. The template library lacks features like tagging or folders for better organization, making managing a large collection of reusable documents difficult. Additionally, integration with cloud storage services like Google Drive feels less polished, which can disrupt workflows if you rely on multiple platforms.

Another drawback is the lack of advanced signer authentication options—email verification is standard, but options like SMS verification or ID checks aren’t available, which may be an issue for more sensitive documents. 

Lastly, I’ve found the document customization options for branding minimal compared to other platforms. While you can add a logo, it doesn’t allow for more comprehensive branding like customized email templates or document themes.

What I like about Dropbox Sign:

  • My favorite part about using this tool is being able to work directly within my Dropbox folder. It keeps everything organized and eliminates manual file transfers.
  • The tamper-proof audit trail is great. Having a secure and detailed record of all actions on a document provides peace of mind, especially for contracts and agreements.

What G2 users like about Dropbox Sign:

“We chose Dropbox Sign over similar applications because of its straightforward approach to templating PDFs and collecting document signatures. In particular, we wanted to have multiple users and quickly get our legal documents signed without much hassle or management. Dropbox Sign has allowed us to manage our signatures effectively, and we can't ask for much more! We use it about 3-4 times monthly for external signatures from our clients and partners. We also trust that the signatures are verifiable and secure.”

 

- Dropbox Sign Review, Benjamin B.

What I dislike about Dropbox Sign:
  • Managing many templates without better categorization or tagging options to improve usability became difficult for me.
  • The inconsistent integrations made it clunky for me to work with other platforms like Google Drive. This issue will slow down workflows for users with diverse storage needs.
What G2 users dislike about Dropbox Sign:

“It would be nice to see a bit quicker which client and email address was used for each document being sent out. There may be a better way, but for now, I have to click on each one to see which documents are still out for signing and which one is for which client. It would also be nice to be able to remove or add signers or change email addresses for signers after sending without having to resend in full.”

- Dropbox Sign Review, Dustin M.

7. Foxit eSign

Foxit eSign is much more than just a signature tool—it’s designed for professionals who need secure, customizable, and efficient workflows to manage their agreements. From handling sensitive contracts to managing team approvals, it offers advanced e-signature capabilities tailored to modern business needs.

One of the features I value most is handwritten-style biometric signatures. Unlike many tools that stick to typed or image-based signatures, Foxit eSign enables signers to use touchscreen devices to create authentic, handwritten signatures. This adds a personal and legally binding touch that feels more genuine for all parties involved.

Foxit-eSign

Another standout feature is the collaborative review process. Before finalizing a document, I can share it with stakeholders for comments, edits, and approvals. This ensures that everyone is aligned on the final version before signatures are added, reducing the need for revisions after the fact.

Foxit eSign’s batch signature requests are ideal for larger workflows. I’ve used this feature to simultaneously send a single document to multiple recipients, tracking their progress in real time. It’s particularly helpful for onboarding new team members or managing multi-recipient agreements.

Time-stamped digital signatures add another layer of security and compliance. They include precise timestamps from a trusted certificate authority, ensuring that signatures are verifiable and legally valid. This feature is especially useful for agreements that require time-sensitive authentication, such as legal or regulatory documents.

The template library is a time-saver for frequent workflows. I’ve created reusable templates with pre-configured fields for contracts, NDAs, and other commonly used documents, making it quick to send professional, consistent agreements without starting from scratch each time.

While Foxit eSign is packed with powerful features, there are areas where it could improve. The setup for digital certificates can feel overly technical, requiring familiarity with encryption protocols and certificate authorities. 

The collaboration permissions are also limited—once a document is shared for review, there’s no way to restrict editing rights for specific sections, which can be a concern for sensitive materials. 

Additionally, the learning curve for advanced features is steeper than expected, and first-time users may wish for more in-depth guidance or tutorials.

What I like about Foxit eSign:

  • I appreciate collecting authentic, handwritten signatures using tablets or touchscreen devices. They add a personal and professional touch often missing from standard e-signatures.
  • Being able to send a document to multiple recipients at once has helped my large-scale workflows, especially when collecting team-wide approvals.

What G2 users like about Foxit eSign:

“Being able to upload a document and create a template for forms that you use daily. You can also enforce conditions such as MFA for the signers. You can also enforce a signature order. Once the first person signs, then it goes to the next. It is easy to create forms using their forms create. I can't wait to learn how to use more of the features. We are also getting our patients to sign our forms faster. It integrates with our workflow process very easily. We use this frequently with our patients.”

 

- Foxit eSign Review, Ricardo M.

What I dislike about Foxit eSign:
  • My experience of setting up digital certificates and time-stamped signatures was slightly tricky. It requires advanced technical knowledge, which may be intimidating for new users.
  • Despite the intuitive interface, the learning curve for this tool and all its features was steeper than most for me.
What G2 users dislike about Foxit eSign:

“It is regrettable that the notification settings are inflexible if somebody takes time to sign a document at Foxit eSign. Sometimes, it seems like you must seek an update, which can be time-consuming. Also, there is an issue with document uploading that sometimes fails to recognize non-conventional file types and hence has to engage in styling some of the files. Such problems make the process slightly less smooth than it could be.

- Foxit eSign Review, Barbara C.

8. Signaturely

Signaturely takes a no-frills approach to e-signatures, focusing on simplicity while offering features designed to make document signing accessible and efficient. Whether you're managing contracts, approval forms, or simple agreements, it’s built to handle essential tasks easily.

A feature I haven’t seen often elsewhere is signer accessibility customization. Signaturely allows me to adjust the signing process for recipients with different needs, such as larger signature boxes or simplified signing flows. This has been particularly helpful when working with less tech-savvy clients or stakeholders who need extra guidance.

Signaturely

Another standout aspect is the email-free signing option. For recipients who don’t use email frequently, I can generate a signing link that can be shared via text or chat. This has made it incredibly easy to reach signers in unconventional scenarios, especially when speed is critical.

Signaturely’s document activity tracking provides granular insights. Beyond standard audit trails, it includes time-stamped details on every interaction, like how long a recipient spent on specific pages. This has helped me identify potential concerns, such as clients hesitating over certain clauses, allowing me to address issues proactively.

Another great feature is the collaborative signing flow. Signaturely allows multiple signers to interact with a document in real time, making it easy to finalize group agreements without multiple rounds of back-and-forth.

One of my favorite features is its API integration for custom workflows. Signaturely can be embedded directly into websites or apps, enabling clients to sign contracts without leaving the platform. This is perfect for businesses offering services like onboarding or event registration.

However, Signaturely has limitations. For instance, the template management tools are basic and lack organizational features like tagging or categorization. This can become frustrating when working with a large number of templates. 

Additionally, while the email-free signing option is helpful, it doesn’t offer tracking for these links unless the document is completed, making it difficult to monitor progress.

Lastly, bulk-sending options are underwhelming. They lack the advanced tracking and customization features of competing platforms for managing multiple signers simultaneously.

What I like about Foxit eSign:

  • Features like larger signature boxes and simplified signing flows make the tool accessible to signers with limited technical expertise. For instance, I’ve used this feature to assist stakeholders who needed a simpler interface to complete their forms without confusion.
  • Email-free signing links allow me to bypass email by sharing signing links through text or chat. It’s been invaluable when dealing with signers who prefer faster communication methods or don’t actively check their email accounts.

What G2 users like about Foxit eSign:

“Signaturely has genuinely impressed me with its speed and simplicity. The user interface is clean, intuitive, and just works. I’m someone who values a smooth user experience and Signaturely delivers. Templates are neatly organized, making everything easy to find. No more wasting time hunting for documents. The search function is a lifesaver, too.

 

The legal security of contracts gives me peace of mind, and the email notifications keep me in the loop. For those less tech-savvy, it’s user-friendly and hassle-free.”

 

- Foxit eSign Review, Imran H.

What I dislike about Foxit eSign:
  • While sending signing links via text or chat is convenient, the inability to track whether a recipient has accessed the document until it’s signed creates unnecessary uncertainty.
  • The lack of built-in connections to popular tools like Salesforce or Trello has forced me to rely on workarounds or manual processes for certain workflows, which slows me down.
What G2 users dislike about Foxit eSign:

“Even though Signaturely is already a solid product, there's always something to improve. I'd love it if they added automatic reminders for pending signatures. Signers who might have forgotten the document would be reminded, so the process would go faster.

While the current template options are good, I'd like to see more customizable templates added. It would save a lot of time for users who work on similar documents.”

- Foxit eSign Review, Berhan T.

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Frequently asked questions about the best e-signature software

Have more questions? Find more answers below.

What is the best e-signature software?

The best e-signature software depends on what you're looking for. If you're managing high-volume agreements or need advanced compliance features, DocuSign is a top-tier solution trusted by enterprises worldwide. For businesses focused on affordability and ease of use, Jotform Sign and Signaturely are strong contenders. Adobe Acrobat Sign and Dropbox Sign are excellent options for more robust integrations with tools like Microsoft 365 or Google Workspace. 

Who is DocuSign's biggest competitor?

DocuSign faces strong competition from Adobe Acrobat Sign, which rivals it regarding compliance, integrations, and advanced features for enterprise users. For small to medium-sized businesses, competitors like PandaDoc and Foxit eSign offer unique advantages, such as document automation and high-security options at competitive prices.

Does Microsoft have an eSignature?

Microsoft doesn’t have a standalone e-signature platform, but it integrates with leading solutions like Adobe Acrobat Sign and DocuSign. These integrations allow you to send and sign documents directly within Microsoft apps such as Word, Excel, and Outlook, streamlining your workflows if you already use Microsoft 365.

Is Google DocuSign free?

No, Google DocuSign isn’t free, but DocuSign offers a free trial if you want to test its capabilities. If you're looking for free e-signature options that integrate with Google Drive, consider Signaturely or Jotform Sign, which provide basic e-signature features without cost. For more robust functionality, upgrading to a paid plan may be necessary.

What is the most secure electronic signature software?

If security and compliance are top priorities, Foxit eSign and Adobe Acrobat Sign lead the pack. Both platforms include advanced security features like time-stamped digital signatures, multi-factor authentication, tamper-proof audit trails, and compliance with global standards like eIDAS, ESIGN, and GDPR. These features make them ideal for finance, healthcare, and legal industries, where document security is non-negotiable.

What is the best free e-signature software?

If you’re seeking a cost-effective solution, Signaturely, and Jotform Sign offer free plans with essential e-signature capabilities. Signaturely is perfect for basic signing needs, while Jotform Sign provides customization options and seamless form integration, making it suitable for small projects or occasional use.

What is the best e-signature software for small businesses?

For small businesses, tools like PandaDoc and Dropbox Sign strike the perfect balance between affordability and functionality. PandaDoc’s document automation and e-signature features are excellent for contracts, proposals, and client onboarding, while Dropbox Sign simplifies workflows with its integration with Dropbox.

Signing off

Whether you’re looking for something simple and cost-effective or a tool with advanced features and integrations, the key is understanding what matters most for your workflows and focusing on tools that deliver those results.

The next step is to explore your options. Start by identifying the most important features—ease of use, security, or integration with tools you already use. Then, test a few platforms to see how they align with your goals. Most e-signature tools offer free trials or demos, a great way to get a feel for their capabilities.

As you evaluate your choices, think about scalability. It’s worth considering how well the software can adapt to your future needs, whether that’s increased document volume, team collaboration, or more advanced processes.

Integrating e-signature software with ERP software saves time and reduces errors. My team reviewed the best ERP systems to help you make an informed decision.


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