E‑signature software takes the friction out of approvals. Instead of printing, scanning, and chasing endless email threads, you can send, sign, and finalize documents in minutes. Whether it’s client contracts, vendor approvals, or internal sign‑offs, these tools help teams move faster and stay organized.
I independently tested the leading e‑signature platforms to find the best mix of speed, security, integrations, and ease of use for project teams. I focused on what matters day to day legally binding signatures, automated reminders, and clear audit trails, and evaluated how well each tool fits real workflows.
In this guide, you’ll find the top e‑signature software options for 2025, plus a breakdown of key features, ideal use cases, and where each tool shines (and where it doesn’t).
What Is E-Signature Software?
E-signature software, also known as electronic signature software, is a digital tool that allows individuals and businesses to sign documents online instead of using pen and paper. These platforms make it possible to securely approve, send, and manage legally binding documents from any device with an internet connection.
How It Works
With e-signature software, a user can upload a document (like a contract, agreement, or form), place signature fields where needed, and send it to the other party for signing. The recipient receives an email or link, signs electronically, often by typing their name, drawing their signature, or using a secure digital certificate, and the completed document is automatically stored and shared.
Key Features
- Legally Binding Signatures – Most e-signature solutions comply with global regulations such as ESIGN Act (US), eIDAS (EU), and UETA, making them legally valid.
- Security & Encryption – Advanced authentication, audit trails, and encryption ensure document integrity.
- Workflow Automation – Automates repetitive tasks like sending reminders, collecting multiple signatures, and managing approvals.
- Integration – Works seamlessly with tools like Google Drive, Microsoft Office, CRM systems, and project management platforms.
Benefits
- Speed & Convenience – Sign documents anytime, anywhere.
- Cost Savings – Cuts down on printing, mailing, and storage costs.
- Efficiency – Speeds up business transactions and reduces turnaround time.
- Eco-Friendly – Reduces paper usage and waste.
5 Best E-Signature Software
- SignNow – Best choice for secure, compliance‑ready e‑signatures
- pdfFiller – Cloud PDF editor with strong security safeguards
- DocHub – Tight, seamless integration with Gmail
- Lightico – Optimized for mobile‑first forms in customer journeys
- CocoSign – Budget‑friendly and straightforward to use
SignNow – Best Choice for Secure, Compliance‑Ready E‑Signatures
SignNow is a digital platform for sending, signing, and managing documents online. It enables users to create electronic signatures and apply them from a range of devices. You can upload files, place signature fields where needed, and route documents to the appropriate recipients for signing.
For growing companies, its pricing is a notable advantage. Martin Orefice, CEO of Rent To Own Labs, notes that SignNow offers flexible plans with monthly or annual billing, tiered features, and the ability to scale with your needs.
He adds that while some competitors offer more extensive feature sets, they’re often too costly for smaller businesses to start with.
Pros:
- Excellent value team plans that cover the essential features, with even better savings on annual billing
- Effortlessly add signatures and fields to any document in just a few clicks
Cons:
- Customer support could be more responsive and reliable
- The app may experience occasional crashes
Cost:
- Free trial available
- From $8/user/month
pdfFiller – Best for Secure, Cloud-Based PDF Editing
pdfFiller is an online document management platform designed to simplify how individuals and businesses handle PDF files. It goes beyond basic editing by combining multiple tools into a single, accessible solution. Users can easily edit, sign, and share PDF documents or forms without needing to install complex software.
The platform includes a wide range of features: a versatile PDF editor for text and image modifications, a form builder for creating fillable documents, a document converter for handling different file formats, and integrated electronic signature capabilities. These functions make it suitable for both personal use and business operations that require reliable, everyday PDF management.
For organizations that don’t need intricate customization options or advanced workflow automation, pdfFiller strikes a balance between functionality and simplicity.
It provides a straightforward way to prepare, manage, and share documents securely in the cloud, making it an appealing choice for small to mid-sized teams, freelancers, and businesses seeking efficiency without the steep learning curve of more complex platforms.
Pros:
- Saves both time and costs
- Intuitive, user-friendly interface
- Supports password protection for documents
Cons:
- Formatting may not always carry over cleanly when converting PDFs to Word
- Advanced features can take time to learn
Cost:
- 30-day free trial
- $20/month
DocHub – Ideal for Seamless Gmail Integration
DocHub is a user-friendly platform that simplifies editing, sending, and signing PDFs. Designed with cloud-based functionality, it enables teams to collaborate and manage documents from anywhere, eliminating the hassle of complicated software.
Its intuitive tools reduce the friction of everyday document workflows, whether you’re editing forms, adding signatures, or securely sharing files. For organizations with multiple teams or offices, DocHub helps cut down on repetitive tasks and improves coordination, ultimately saving both time and effort.
By blending simplicity with powerful features, DocHub is especially valuable for businesses looking to boost efficiency while keeping their document processes straightforward and reliable.
Pros:
- Supports real-time collaboration for seamless teamwork
- Extensive integration options with popular apps and platforms
- Robust PDF editing and annotation tools
Cons:
- Mobile experience could be improved
- Free version has limits on the number of documents
Cost:
- Free plan available forever
- Paid plans starting at $10/month
Lightico – Best for Mobile-Friendly Customer Journeys
Lightico is designed as a real-time, in-call e-signature solution that empowers customer service agents to do far more than just collect signatures. While speaking directly with a customer on the phone, agents can instantly capture customer IDs, complete smart forms, share images or documents, process payments, and finalize agreements with secure e-signatures, all without leaving the conversation.
This streamlined, mobile-friendly approach reduces friction for customers and eliminates the back-and-forth often required with traditional platforms. According to the company, Lightico achieves up to a 20% higher completion rate compared to many competitors, including well-known tools like Legacy eSign and HelloSign.
By focusing on customer journeys and real-time collaboration, businesses close deals faster, improve compliance, and deliver a smoother overall experience.
Pros:
- Built for real-time use
- Seamlessly integrated with Salesforce
- ADA-compliant platform
Cons:
- Requires an internet connection
- Limited integration options
Cost:
- Free demo offered
- Pricing available upon request
CocoSign – Great Choice for Cost-Effective
CocoSign is a user-friendly e-signature platform built around simplicity and accessibility. It’s a HIPAA-compliant, cloud-based solution tailored for SMBs and professionals, marketed as one of the easiest alternatives to DocuSign.
The platform is designed to speed up signing processes and boost efficiency with helpful features like automated reminders, real-time updates, templates, bulk sending, and detailed tracking.
Pros:
- Mobile-optimized interface
- Easy to get started with minimal setup
- Free plan with unlimited signatures
Cons:
- No option to bulk delete documents
- Lacks a dedicated mobile app
Cost:
- No option to bulk delete documents
- Lacks a dedicated mobile app
SignPlus – Best for Custom Templates
SignPlus is an electronic signature platform built to make online document signing both simple and secure. As a cloud-based solution, it serves individuals and businesses alike, ensuring that every document signed through the platform is legally binding.
It also complies with international standards and regulations, including ESIGN, eIDAS, and ZertES, giving users peace of mind that their agreements meet global legal requirements.
Pros:
- Meets global compliance standards
- Track signatures in real time
- Free plan for quick and basic e-signatures
Cons:
- Collaboration features could be stronger for team use
- Limited flexibility in customizing digital signatures
Cost:
- Free plan + trial available
- From $9.99/month annually
E-Signature Software Frequently Asked Questions
Got more questions about e-signature tools? Here are some quick FAQs.
Are Electronic Signatures Legally Binding?
Yes. In most regions, including the U.S., EU, and many other countries, e-signatures are legally recognized under regulations such as ESIGN, UETA, and eIDAS, provided they meet certain requirements.
How Secure Are E-Signatures?
Most e-signature platforms use encryption, authentication methods, and audit trails to ensure documents are tamper-proof, making them highly secure.
Who Can Benefit From E-Signature Software?
Organizations of all sizes, freelancers, legal professionals, HR teams, sales teams, and government agencies can benefit by speeding up paperwork and reducing manual errors.
Does E-Signature Software Work on Mobile Devices?
Most modern platforms are mobile-friendly or provide dedicated apps, allowing users to sign documents on smartphones and tablets.
What Types of Documents Can I Sign Electronically?
You can sign contracts, NDAs, HR forms, sales agreements, consent forms, financial documents, and many other types of legally recognized documents.
Bottom Line
E‑signature tools have become indispensable for organizations and professionals seeking to streamline workflows, reduce paperwork, and boost efficiency. By replacing manual paper-based steps with secure digital signatures, teams save time and money while keeping documents legally enforceable and compliant with international regulations.
From freelancers who want a simple, no-cost option to enterprises that require advanced capabilities such as bulk sending, custom branding, and automated workflows, there’s a platform for every use case. The best fit depends on your budget, the complexity of your document processes, and the integrations your team relies on.
Ultimately, adopting e‑signature software isn’t just about convenience; it’s about staying competitive in a digital-first world, shortening turnaround times, and delivering smoother experiences for clients, partners, and employees.
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