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PDFs are one of the most popular file types to share and use. But can you edit a PDF? This format is a solid one and originally it is not supposed to be changed. Nonetheless, you can do that with a reliable PDF editor for Windows although this seems to be a tricky task.

If you have the right programs at hand, there shouldn’t be any difficulties. The problem is that finding a decent service that corresponds to your needs might be more complicated than it first seems.

Some PDF editors are great for documents containing text, others would be quite helpful when it comes to working with filling forms.

Best PDF editors for Windows: summary table

How we picked the best PDF editors

During our evaluation process, we took a thorough approach to testing the various options available. We’ve tested popular software to edit PDF files on Windows to help you find the application that fully satisfies your demands.

Our team of experts checked each option's interface, functionality, and overall ease of use.

We also considered the licensing pricing and customer support options offered.

Through our rigorous testing, we were able to identify the best PDF editor for Windows that provides the best value for those looking for a reliable and efficient solution.

1. Icecream PDF Editor

Icecream PDF Editor is the best free PDF editor for Windows 10 that is very intuitive. This software has multiple tools. You can correct mistakes and change existing text, add new text and write on PDF, make it bigger or smaller, change its font, color, opacity, and much more.

If you want to add graphics, feel free to do so. Simply click the image icon and upload a picture you need to your input. Draw lines and arrows of color and size of your choice, add rectangles and circles, and this all is only about PDF editing.

PDF Editor

Full-featured PDF editor for editing PDF files like a PRO. Edit PDF text, draw on PDF, annotate, fill in forms, merge files, protect and more!

Free Download

If you wonder how to annotate a PDF then It will provide you with even more options:

• Insert stamps to PDF, notes, highlights, underlining, and anything you might think of without actually altering content.
• When commenting, you can make propositions to share your ideas about how you think the content might be adjusted and get it approved.

Besides that, in the "Manage Pages" mode of the PDF editor for Windows, you can combine elements. This is done by adding a page or another file seeing the thumbnails of each. You may delete unnecessary pages, rotate pages, merge PDFs, or extract pages by creating a separate paper.

You can also fill in forms in PDFs using the relevant mode.

Last but not least, documents are secure with Icecream PDF Editor. If you want to ensure your content won’t be accessed by anyone without your permission you can password-protect your PDFs.

2. Nitro PDF Pro

Nitro PDF Pro is an app with a whole suite for quality work. If you wish to edit PDF as text, you can turn on the OCR feature. This way, you can proceed with bringing changes to a document just like to any other text format.

Paragraphs of the text can be moved around the list with the drag-and-drop mechanism. You can add images, insert blank pages, incline elements from a file, clipboard, or scanner, and delete, crop, and rotate pages.

Adding comments and attaching elements is also supported by Nitro PDF Pro. Users can fill PDF forms and place signatures. Also, secure them with a password, and even upload to cloud storage.

All these advanced features might confuse someone who wondered how to crop a page or add text. By and large, this app is amazing but a bit excessive if you need a basic tool.

Nitro Pro 10 has a 14-day trial period. You would need to enter your name, surname, and e-mail to install this PDF editor, and you are ready to go.

You can activate the PRO version immediately once you installed Nitro but who wouldn’t like to enjoy good things for free first? Nitro Pro 10 allows you to edit PDFs on Mac, too.

3. ABBYY FineReader PDF

FineReader has a user-friendly interface that facilitates quick deployment. You can easily import into the program and then edit PDFs with a variety of tools. It supports a wide range of formats from such programs as Microsoft Office, Adobe Acrobat and its alternatives, and more.

This PDF editor for Windows also has powerful characteristics that render it a perfect selection for content management.

The software facilitates the transformation of PDFs into other formats such as Word and Excel. Furthermore, it can aid you in creating fillable forms, placing signatures, and adding text boxes. You can also secure your data with a password for more protection.

FineReader also includes the highest-quality OCR feature that serves to transform scanned documents into searchable text.

It also supports batch conversion, streamlining the process of converting multiple elements at once.

PDF Editor

Full-featured PDF editor for editing PDF files like a PRO. Edit PDF text, draw on PDF, annotate, fill in forms, merge files, protect and more!

Free Download

4. Foxit PhantomPDF

Foxit PhantomPDF is a great software that can change the existing content including editing PDF text.

It also annotates your PDF, adds links, graphic elements, images, audio, and video. Plus, it inclines text markup, highlights areas, works with comments, inserts stamps and forms, rotates pages, and much more.

All these features are easily accessible from the intuitive menu. With this PDF editor for Windows, you can open multiple files at once and they will be kept in separate tabs. This is very handy when you are working on multiple documents.

To download this PDF redactor, though, you are required to add your email, first and last name, company, and phone number. This is slightly inconvenient.

5. LibreOffice Draw

LibreOffice Draw is an open-source PDF editor from a LibreOffice software package.

This PDF modifier changes a document exactly like LibreOffice Writer alters Word.

There are actually plenty of useful features you can work with.

Graphic elements like arrows, stars, and rectangles can be placed on your PDF. You can add diagrams and tables, change the layout of a page, and add macros, video, audio, objects, and frames.

This app can ease up your alter text in PDF format considerably. It perfectly opens PDF protected with a password. The interface is pretty outdated yet comfortable to work with.

6. Inkscape

Inkscape is a famous PDF modifier that is open-source and offers plenty of features. The program is a bit overloaded with buttons, since it's not only a PDF editor for Windows, but a vector graphics program in general.

Compared to other options like AbleWord or LibreOffice Draw, working with text in Inkscape is rather complicated.

You can delete content and type on PDF, but typing new text turns out to be difficult. You need to manually select the font and the size so that the new text fits into an old one.

Editing a PDF with graphics is much easier - there are an abundance of elements to be added to the PDF.

Inkscape PDF editor lets you work with layers, paths, filters, and lots of extended settings for professional needs.

7. Expert PDF Editor

Expert PDF Editor opens most of the password-protected documents. If your PDF has a code, you can highlight the text; if it doesn’t, you can fully alter your content.

The application also supports the OCR system with multiple languages (compared to the vast majority of PDF editing software that is only in English).

As for the graphics, you can add sticky notes, and random lines by means of pencil. It is possible to put stamps, ellipses, rectangles, and images, place watermarks and page numbers, and forms. You can split, rotate files, and adjust size with this application.

Several elements can be opened and kept in separate tabs. If you need an easy yet full-featured program then this is a good choice for you.

8. Adobe Acrobat DC

Acrobat DC is a product made by Adobe; so if you are used to its apps this might be a great option. This tool has all the basic features, such as adding an image to your PDF, drawing lines and arrows, deleting pages, and much more.

Not only can you upload your PDFs to open, but also scanned documents which are important for working with business files and contracts. You can also type on docs if you don’t want to literally edit a PDF.

The interface looks pretty outdated which is unusual to Adobe. If wonder how to modify PDF without it there are some other options but with Acrobat, you indeed have all tools at hand.

But then again, the fact is, they are randomly placed which most probably confuses a new user. Of course, you’ll be able to do the job the way you need; but it might take more time and effort than you expected.

The biggest disadvantage is: the program's so-called free trial starts with a commitment to monthly or annual payments. You can’t try editing a PDF with this app before entering your credit card data.

9. Swifdoo PDF Editor

Swifdoo is a powerful and feature-packed app for Windows. It helps in creating, annotating, and other tasks quickly and accurately. With its intuitive design, it is the perfect choice for both novice and experienced specialists.

The program grants users the ability to edit multiple PDFs at once. You can also add comments, highlight important points, and draw freehand lines.

The software can open a range of formats including Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, TXT, CAD, and HTML as well as images like JPG, PNG, GIF, etc. This renders the conversion into PDFs or vice versa effortless.

Swifdoo offers several security features to protect your documents from unauthorized access. This PDF editor supports encryption with passwords and digital signatures for added safety.

Furthermore, it also provides sophisticated functions like PDF redaction and content removal that help prevent confidential information from being seen or taken without permission.

10. Kofax Power PDF

The interface is intuitive and easy to navigate. The PDF editing software has a simple toolbar on the left side of the screen that contains all the essential features.

It includes tools for creating a new document, working on an existing one, adding text and images, merging, transforming into different formats, and more.

Kofax Power PDF Editor provides state-of-the-art capabilities such as automatic field recognition, page rotation, and cropping. It has integration with Microsoft Office applications, protection, digital signatures, and encryption.

This editing PDF application enables the simultaneous processing of multiple elements.

The software is available in two versions: Standard and Professional. The Pro one has additional features such as character identification (CI), redaction instruments for secure handling, the ability to add watermarks, etc.

11. PDFgear Desktop

PDFgear Desktop is a comprehensive PDF software for Windows and Mac. I allows you to create, convert over 25 formats, and merge. You can even turn paper documents into digital ones with its scanning feature.

It is very simple to use, with a streamlined interface and intuitive icons. To start the process, you just have to drag and drop your file onto the program. Then, you can insert text or images, annotate pages, fill out forms, add signatures, apply watermarks, and more.

PDF modifier also comes with cloud storage integration. This helps you store and share on Dropbox, Google Drive, OneDrive, and other cloud services.

You can send the output directly from the program as an email attachment or via social media platforms like Facebook and Twitter.

12. AbleWord

AbleWord is a really awesome software if the documents you are working with were previously converted to PDF from Word. Basically, you can open such content in AbleWord, automatically turn PDF into editable format, and work with it just like in Microsoft Word.

Change text, add tables, highlight, work with font, and change the alignments of text – you’re able to do everything with this compact PDF editor for Windows OS.

We tried a scanned paper but it was recognized as an image. It didn’t make content selectable in this case, so we wouldn’t recommend this app for those who need to work with scanned PDFs. This option doesn’t open password-protected files, either.

13. Canva

Canva is a popular design platform that offers a wide array of tools for stunning visual content, like presentations, social media graphics, posters, and more. It offers a desktop version of its service that is available for both Windows and macOS.

In addition to its design capabilities, the program also serves as a powerful PDF editor, allowing users to create, change, and customize with ease.

With its vast library of templates and elements, this PDF software provides endless possibilities for visually stunning results. Collaboration and sharing features so it is quick to work with others and share with clients, colleagues, or friends.

14. Microsoft Word

Microsoft Word can do more than just process text—it also works well as a basic PDF editor. When you open a file in Word, it is converted automatically into a customizable layout, letting you make adjustments almost as if it were a regular document.

You can revise text, modify styles, insert visuals, tweak alignment, and add elements like tables or headers. Once finished, the result can be exported back to PDF without needing any tools. It's a practical choice for those already comfortable with MS Office.

We tested the program with various digital PDFs and it handled simple ones well. However, scanned PDF pages were treated as static images and couldn’t be changed. Interactive fields and complex elements didn’t always display correctly either.

15. Systweak PDF Editor

Systweak PDF Editor is a user-friendly, affordable, feature-rich PDF tool that lets you directly convert, annotate, and secure documents. You can use it to alter text, insert images, add stamps, draw shapes, write comments, and annotate PDFs with highlights, underlines, and freehand drawings.

It even lets you create fillable forms, redact sensitive information, remove metadata, compress, insert blank pages, bookmark, and batch process PDFs to save time. At any time, you can convert PDFs to Word, Excel, PowerPoint, HTML, and various image formats and vice versa, which most popular options miss out on.

All these core features make this PDF editing software a must-have tool for everyone working with files.

However, the app lacks certain features. You cannot add headers or footers, share or email PDFs directly from the program, or compare to review changes between versions.

Choosing the best PDF editor

With so many options out there, it can be difficult to know which software is best for you. Here are a few tips:

1. Consider what type of work you need. Do you need to edit PDF text, images, or both? Different options offer various features, so ensure that the one you select has all the tools you need.
2. Look at the interface. Is it straightforward to employ? If not, it might be worth considering another tool.
3. Check the features offered by each option. Do they offer basic tools like adding or removing text and images? Or do they provide further capabilities such as text recognition and form filling?
4. Ensure that the editor is compatible with your system. Some are only available for certain versions of Windows and may not work with your OS.
5. Read reviews from other people to get an idea of how well a particular app operates. Reading reviews can help you make an informed decision.

By taking these tips into consideration, you should be able to find a the best PDF editor that is free and fulfills your requirements.

FAQ

Why would I use a PDF editor?

You can modify existing PDFs, craft new documents from scratch, annotate (draw, leave comments, stamps, sticky notes, etc.), and much more.

What are the characteristics of a quality PDF editor?

A good PDF modifier should have features like changing text, incorporating stamps and images, annotating, forming shapes and adding new pages to PDF.

What is the difference between a PDF reader and a PDF editor?

A PDF viewer can read existing content while a PDF editor allows users to modify and add content.

How to edit PDF text on Windows?

Just choose what you would like to alter and make your modifications.

Is it possible to include pictures or visuals in my document?

Yes, a PDF editor permits you to include images or graphics. Drag and drop them into the page from your computer's explorer or employ the program's insert image function.

Editing text in PDF: tips

1. Create a Backup. Save a copy of the document before any changes. This way, if there are mistakes or want to go back to the original version, you can easily do so.
2. Take Advantage of Shortcuts. Keyboard shortcuts can help you quickly achieve the desired results without having to navigate through the PDF editor menus.
3. Utilize Toolbar Buttons. Toolbar buttons provide quick access to common tasks such as saving, printing, and searching for text in PDF. Use them instead of navigating through menus so that you can work faster and more efficiently.
4. Select Text. To highlight sections rapidly, double-click on the word or phrase you want to choose. Then drag the cursor to pick the entire sentence or paragraph.
5. Add Annotations. These are an awesome way to add comments or notes without editing text in PDF. They are also useful for highlighting important parts so that they stand out from the rest of the text.
6. Drawing Tools. They give you flexibility when editing a PDF file. It allows you to draw shapes, lines, or arrows as needed in order to better illustrate your point or emphasize certain parts.
7. Check Layout. Page size can be changed according to your needs by using options such as adjusting margins, adding columns, or changing paper size.

PDF Editor

Full-featured PDF editor for editing PDF files like a PRO. Edit PDF text, draw on PDF, annotate, fill in forms, merge files, protect and more!

Free Download

Bottom Line

Finding the best PDF editor for Windows 10 from a wide variety of PDF programs, one that offers just the right amount of features with a modern interface, but is still safe software to use, is quite a task.

We reviewed offline apps because we know that you want your documents and contracts not to be uploaded elsewhere or handed to third parties which sometimes happens with online PDF modifiers.

Besides that, it doesn’t matter how fast your Internet currently works if you use offline PDF editing software - it still is going to work as fast as it possibly can. We hope that our list of the top 13 PDF editors for Windows in 2026 helped you find your best application.

Andrea Makkofaides

Content Managing Editor at PDF Candy

Andrea runs the show as Content Managing Editor at PDF Candy. She is the one shaping the voice of the brand, coming up with fresh ideas, and making sure every article hits the mark. Most of her work dives into technology, software, and productivity tools - basically, she is all about helping readers keep up and get things done in the digital world.