10 Best Free eSignature Software Shortlist
Here's my pick of the 10 best software from the 14 tools reviewed.
Managing projects means juggling endless paperwork, deadlines, and approvals. It’s a headache, I know. But you can make it easier with free eSignature software. It cuts down on the back-and-forth, saves time, and keeps everything organized.
In my experience, finding the right tool is crucial. That’s why I’ve independently tested and reviewed the top free eSignature options. I’m here to give you an unbiased look at what works best for your team.
You’ll discover which software fits your needs, whether it’s handling contracts, approvals, or team collaboration. This article will guide you through my top picks, helping you choose the best tool for your projects.
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Best Free eSignature Software Summary
This comparison chart summarizes pricing details for my top free eSignature software selections to help you find the best one for your budget and business needs.
| Tool | Best For | Trial Info | Price | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Best for small teams | Free plan available | From $8/user/month (billed annually) | Website | |
| 2 | Best for secure global compliance | Free plan available | From $10/user/month | Website | |
| 3 | Best for startups | Free plan available | From $10/user/month (billed annually) | Website | |
| 4 | Best for open-source enthusiasts | Free plan available | Free, open source software | Website | |
| 5 | Best for fast document sigining | Free trial available | From $14.99/month (billed annually) | Website | |
| 6 | Best for form integration | Free plan available | From $34/month (billed annually) | Website | |
| 7 | Best for Zoho ecosystem users | Free plan available | From $10/user/month | Website | |
| 8 | Best for PDF integration | Free plan available | From $12.99/month | Website | |
| 9 | Best for data privacy | Free plan available | From $20/user/month | Website | |
| 10 | Best for sales teams | 14-day free trial + free plan + free demo available | From $19/user/month (billed annually) | Website |
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Zoho Projects
Visit WebsiteThis is an aggregated rating for this tool including ratings from Crozdesk users and ratings from other sites.4.2 -
Forecast
Visit WebsiteThis is an aggregated rating for this tool including ratings from Crozdesk users and ratings from other sites.4.6 -
Accelo
Visit WebsiteThis is an aggregated rating for this tool including ratings from Crozdesk users and ratings from other sites.4.4
Best Free eSignature Software Reviews
Below are my detailed summaries of the best free eSignature software that made it onto my shortlist. My reviews offer a detailed look at the key features, pros & cons, integrations, and ideal use cases of each tool to help you find the best one for you.
SignWell is an electronic signature tool designed to meet the needs of small teams looking to manage document signing efficiently. It supports key business functions like contract management and approval workflows.
Why I picked SignWell: SignWell caters to small teams with its easy-to-use interface and straightforward document management features. It offers unlimited templates, allowing your team to save time on repetitive tasks. The audit trail feature provides transparency and accountability, which is essential for small teams needing to track document status. Additionally, SignWell's reminder and notification system ensures that nothing falls through the cracks.
Standout Features & Integrations
Features include a user-friendly dashboard that simplifies document tracking. You can set expiration dates on documents, which helps keep your team on schedule. The software also provides in-person signing capabilities, making it versatile for different signing scenarios.
Integrations include Zapier, Google Drive, Dropbox, OneDrive, Box, Slack, Salesforce, HubSpot, Trello, and Asana.
What's free? SignWell offers a free-forever plan with a limit of three documents per month and basic e-signature features.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Effective notification system
- Simple user interface
- Unlimited template creation
Cons:
- Limited to small team use
- No mobile app
- Basic customization options
Docusign is an electronic signature tool widely used by businesses across various industries. It helps users manage contracts, agreements, and document signing efficiently.
Why I picked Docusign: Docusign is known for its secure global compliance, making it ideal for businesses that need to adhere to international regulations. The tool provides strong security measures, including encryption and audit trails, to ensure that your documents are safe. It also offers mobile access, allowing you and your team to sign documents on the go. With Docusign, you can be confident in the legal enforceability of your signed documents across different jurisdictions.
Standout Features & Integrations
Features include advanced authentication options that enhance document security. The tool provides detailed audit trails, ensuring you have complete visibility over the document's lifecycle. It also allows for bulk sending, making it easier for your team to manage large volumes of documents.
Integrations include Salesforce, Microsoft 365, Google Workspace, SAP, Oracle, Workday, Slack, Zoom, Dropbox, and Box.
What's free? Docusign offers a free plan that allows unlimited signing but is limited to a single user and three signature requests per month.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- International legal compliance
- Bulk send capabilities
- Strong audit trail features
- Secure document encryption
Cons:
- Potential learning curve for new users
- Limited customization options
- Complex initial setup
BoldSign is an electronic signature tool tailored for startups needing efficient document management and signing capabilities. It helps businesses streamline their contract and agreement processes through its user-friendly interface.
Why I picked BoldSign: BoldSign is ideal for startups, offering features that cater to growing businesses. It provides unlimited templates, which is perfect for startups that need to handle various document types. The tool also offers real-time notifications, ensuring your team stays updated on document status. With its focus on security, BoldSign encrypts your documents to protect sensitive information.
Standout Features & Integrations
Features include a drag-and-drop document editor that simplifies the creation process. You can set automatic reminders to keep your team on track with document deadlines. The platform also supports bulk sending, allowing you to send multiple documents at once, saving you time.
Integrations include Zapier, Salesforce, Google Drive, Dropbox, Box, Slack, Microsoft 365, HubSpot, QuickBooks, and Stripe.
What's free? BoldSign offers a free-forever plan with unlimited document storage and custom branding, but limits the number of e-signatures to 10 per month.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Automatic reminder system
- Bulk document sending
- Unlimited template usage
Cons:
- Basic customer support options
- Occasional software updates
- Initial setup complexity
OpenSign is an open-source electronic signature tool designed for users who prefer customizable and transparent software solutions. It offers essential business functions like document signing and storage, making it a valuable resource for teams that prioritize open-source technology.
Why I picked OpenSign: OpenSign is perfect for open-source enthusiasts, offering complete transparency and flexibility in its operations. The tool provides unlimited free signatures, which is ideal for teams with high-volume signing needs. It also supports collaboration by allowing multiple users to participate in the signing process at no extra cost. Additionally, OpenSign includes free certification for each signed document, ensuring compliance and security.
Standout Features & Integrations
Features include a secure document storage system called OpenSign Drive, where you can organize and protect your files. The platform also offers detailed completion certificates for every signed document, providing access logs for added security. You can invite and collaborate with others without incurring additional costs, making it a budget-friendly option for teams.
Integrations include GitHub, Discord, and other open-source platforms.
What's free? OpenSign offers a free-forever plan with unlimited e-signatures and document storage, with no restrictions on the number of collaborators.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Free document certification
- Open-source flexibility
- Unlimited free signatures
Cons:
- Limited customer support options
- No mobile app availability
- May require technical knowledge
Foxit is a PDF management and electronic signature tool ideal for users who need quick and efficient document signing capabilities. It serves businesses and individuals with functions like PDF editing and electronic signing.
Why I picked Foxit: Foxit is known for its fast document signing, which is crucial for users who need to process documents quickly. The software offers an intuitive interface that speeds up the signing process, making it accessible for everyone on your team. With advanced PDF editing tools, you can modify documents before sending them for signatures. Additionally, Foxit ensures the security of your documents with encryption features.
Standout Features & Integrations
Features include batch processing, which allows you to handle multiple documents at once, saving you time. The software also provides annotation tools to add comments and notes to your PDFs. You can convert documents into different formats, such as Word or Excel, for more versatile use.
Integrations include Microsoft Office, Google Drive, Dropbox, Box, OneDrive, SharePoint, Evernote, Salesforce, Slack, and Gmail.
What's free? Foxit offers a free trial with limited features and a restriction on the number of documents you can send for signature.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Batch processing capabilities
- Advanced PDF editing tools
- Quick document processing
Cons:
- Basic customer support options
- Can be resource-intensive
- Limited mobile features
Jotform Sign is an electronic signature tool designed for teams looking to integrate e-signatures into their existing form workflows. It helps users collect signatures and manage documents efficiently.
Why I picked Jotform Sign: Jotform Sign excels in form integration, making it a top choice for teams already using Jotform. It allows you to seamlessly add signature fields to your forms, enabling quick and easy document signing. The platform provides a drag-and-drop interface, simplifying the process of customizing forms to fit your needs. Additionally, Jotform Sign offers automated reminders to ensure timely completion of documents.
Standout Features & Integrations
Features include a customizable form builder that lets you design forms to suit your specific requirements. The software offers secure document storage, ensuring that your files are protected. You can also track the status of your documents in real-time, giving you full visibility over the signing process.
Integrations include Google Drive, Dropbox, Box, Slack, Salesforce, HubSpot, PayPal, Stripe, Zapier, and Microsoft 365.
What's free? Jotform Sign offers a free-forever plan with access to form templates and unlimited storage, but limits the number of signed documents to 100 per month.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Customizable form builder
- Automated reminders
- Seamless form integration
Cons:
- No offline access
- Can be resource-intensive
- Higher learning curve
Zoho Sign is an electronic signature tool designed for businesses that are part of the Zoho ecosystem. It enables users to manage signatures and document workflows efficiently within their existing Zoho applications.
Why I picked Zoho Sign: Zoho Sign provides automated workflows, allowing your team to manage document signing with minimal manual intervention. The tool offers strong security measures, including encryption and audit trails, to protect your documents. Additionally, Zoho Sign supports multi-language capabilities, which is beneficial for teams operating in diverse linguistic environments.
Standout Features & Integrations
Features include a user-friendly dashboard where you can track document status in real-time. The software allows you to customize email templates, ensuring consistent communication with your clients. You can also set up recurring documents for processes that require frequent signatures.
Integrations include Zoho CRM, Zoho Books, Zoho People, Zoho Projects, Zoho Invoice, Zoho Creator, Dropbox, Google Drive, OneDrive, and Box.
What's free? Zoho Sign offers a free-forever plan with unlimited document signing and mobile access, but limits the number of users to five.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Customizable email templates
- Automated workflows
- Multi-language support
- Seamless Zoho integration
Cons:
- Basic mobile functionality
- Learning curve for non-Zoho users
- Limited features outside Zoho
Adobe Acrobat Reader is a versatile tool mainly used by professionals who need to view, edit, and sign PDF documents. It's valued for its ability to handle a wide range of document-related tasks seamlessly.
Why I picked Adobe Acrobat Reader: Adobe Acrobat Reader excels in PDF integration, providing a consistent experience for handling PDF files. The software allows you to view, annotate, and sign PDFs, making it perfect for document-heavy workflows. It also supports filling out and submitting forms directly within the PDF. This ensures that your team can efficiently manage documents without switching between different tools.
Standout Features & Integrations
Features include annotation tools that let you add comments and notes directly to your PDFs. The fill and sign feature makes it easy to complete and sign forms without printing them. You can also use the software to convert PDFs into other formats, such as Word or Excel, for more flexible editing.
Integrations include Microsoft 365, Google Workspace, Dropbox, Box, Salesforce, SharePoint, OneDrive, Workday, Slack, and SAP.
What's free? Adobe Acrobat Reader offers a free-forever plan with basic PDF viewing, commenting, and signing capabilities, but lacks advanced editing features.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Easy form filling
- Reliable digital signature function
- Strong PDF editing capabilities
Cons:
- Limited free features
- Can be resource-intensive
- Requires frequent updates
DocuSeal is an electronic signature tool tailored for users who prioritize data privacy in their document management processes. It serves businesses and individuals by providing secure and efficient signing and document handling.
Why I picked DocuSeal: DocuSeal offers strong data privacy features, making it ideal for those concerned about confidentiality. The tool encrypts all documents, ensuring that sensitive information remains protected. It also provides detailed audit logs, so your team can track who accessed or signed each document. Additionally, DocuSeal offers customizable security settings, allowing you to control access permissions within your organization.
Standout Features & Integrations
Features include a user-friendly document editor that simplifies the creation and customization of files. You can set expiration dates on documents to enhance security by limiting access over time. The software also supports in-person signing, providing flexibility for various signing scenarios.
Integrations include Dropbox, Google Drive, Box, OneDrive, Slack, Salesforce, HubSpot, Microsoft 365, Zapier, and QuickBooks.
What's free? DocuSeal offers a free-forever plan with encryption security and basic e-signature capabilities, with no restrictions on the number of documents.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- In-person signing support
- Detailed audit logs
- Customizable security settings
Cons:
- May need technical knowledge
- Initial setup complexity
- Basic user interface
Pandadoc is a document management tool designed primarily for sales teams to create, send, and track documents efficiently. It supports various business functions, including proposal creation and electronic signatures.
Why I picked Pandadoc: Pandadoc is tailored for sales teams, offering features like document automation and analytics to streamline the sales process. It provides customizable templates that make creating proposals quick and easy. The real-time tracking feature helps your team see when a document is opened or signed, which is vital for timely follow-ups. You can also collect payments directly through the documents, making it a comprehensive tool for closing deals.
Standout Features & Integrations
Features include a drag-and-drop document builder that simplifies the creation process. The software offers a library of pre-designed templates to save you time. It also provides detailed analytics, giving you insights into how recipients interact with your documents.
Integrations include Salesforce, HubSpot, Pipedrive, Zoho CRM, Stripe, PayPal, QuickBooks, Zapier, Google Drive, and Dropbox.
What's free? Pandadoc offers a free-forever plan with basic document creation and e-signature capabilities, but limits some advanced features and integrations.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Customizable templates
- Real-time document tracking
- Efficient document automation
Cons:
- Occasional performance lags
- Can be overwhelming for beginners
- Limited offline access
Other Free eSignature Software
Here are some additional free eSignature software options that didn’t make it onto my shortlist, but are still worth checking out:
- DigiSigner
For simple user interface
- SignFree
For no-cost personal use
- Xodo Sign
For cross-platform use
- RabbitSign
For quick setup
Free eSignature Software Selection Criteria
When selecting the best free eSignature software to include in this list, I considered common buyer needs and pain points like ease of use and security features. I also used the following framework to keep my evaluation structured and fair:
Core Functionality (25% of total score)
To be considered for inclusion in this list, each solution had to fulfill these common use cases:
- Sign documents electronically
- Send documents for signing
- Track document status
- Store signed documents
- Provide audit trails
Additional Standout Features (25% of total score)
To help further narrow down the competition, I also looked for unique features, such as:
- Custom branding options
- Advanced authentication methods
- Bulk sending capabilities
- Multi-language support
- Integration with popular business apps
Usability (10% of total score)
To get a sense of the usability of each system, I considered the following:
- Intuitive user interface
- Easy navigation
- Quick access to features
- Minimal learning curve
- Aesthetically pleasing design
Onboarding (10% of total score)
To evaluate the onboarding experience for each platform, I considered the following:
- Availability of training videos
- Interactive product tours
- Ready-to-use templates
- Access to webinars
- Onboarding support team availability
Customer Support (10% of total score)
To assess each software provider’s customer support services, I considered the following:
- 24/7 support availability
- Multiple support channels
- Response time to inquiries
- Access to a knowledge base
- Quality of customer service
Value For Money (10% of total score)
To evaluate the value for money of each platform, I considered the following:
- Features offered in free plan
- Cost of paid plans
- Comparison to competitors
- Return on investment potential
- Discounts for annual billing
Customer Reviews (10% of total score)
To get a sense of overall customer satisfaction, I considered the following when reading customer reviews:
- Overall satisfaction ratings
- Frequency of positive feedback
- Commonly mentioned issues
- Praise for specific features
- Feedback on customer support
How to Choose Free eSignature Software
It’s easy to get bogged down in long feature lists and complex pricing structures. To help you stay focused as you work through your unique software selection process, here’s a checklist of factors to keep in mind:
| Factor | What to Consider |
|---|---|
| Scalability | Will the software grow with your team? Consider if it supports increasing document volumes and users without extra costs or limitations. |
| Integrations | Does it work with your existing tools? Check compatibility with CRM, cloud storage, and productivity apps to ensure a smooth workflow. |
| Customizability | Can you tailor it to fit your brand? Look for options to customize templates, emails, and branding to match your company’s identity. |
| Ease of use | Is the interface user-friendly? Ensure team members can navigate and use the software without extensive training or frustration. |
| Implementation and onboarding | How easy is it to get started? Evaluate the availability of resources like tutorials, support, and templates to facilitate a quick setup. |
| Cost | What’s the total cost of ownership? Compare free vs. paid features, and assess if the pricing structure fits your budget long-term. |
| Security safeguards | Are your documents secure? Look for encryption, compliance with data protection regulations, and audit trails to protect sensitive information. |
| Compliance requirements | Does it meet industry-specific regulations? Ensure the software complies with legal standards relevant to your business, like HIPAA or GDPR, to avoid legal issues. |
What Is Free eSignature Software?
Free eSignature software is a digital tool that allows users to sign documents electronically without cost. Professionals like project managers, sales teams, and legal advisors use these tools to save time and reduce paper usage. Features like document tracking, audit trails, and secure storage help with managing agreements efficiently. Overall, these tools provide a convenient and eco-friendly way to handle document signing.
Features of Free eSignature Software
When selecting free eSignature software, keep an eye out for the following key features:
- Electronic signatures: Enable users to sign documents digitally, saving time and reducing paper usage.
- Document tracking: Allows users to monitor the status of documents and know when they are viewed or signed.
- Audit trails: Provides a record of all actions taken on a document, ensuring transparency and accountability.
- Secure storage: Offers a safe space to store signed documents, protecting sensitive information from unauthorized access.
- Customizable templates: Lets users create and reuse document layouts, saving time on repetitive tasks.
- Bulk sending: Enables sending multiple documents at once, which is useful for managing high-volume transactions.
- Integration capabilities: Connects with other tools like CRM and cloud storage, ensuring a smooth workflow.
- Multi-language support: Accommodates diverse teams by allowing document signing in various languages.
- Automated reminders: Sends notifications for pending actions, ensuring timely completion of document processes.
- In-person signing: Offers flexibility to collect signatures electronically during face-to-face meetings.
Benefits of Free eSignature Software
Implementing free eSignature software provides several benefits for your team and your business. Here are a few you can look forward to:
- Time savings: Digital signatures reduce the time spent on manual signing and document handling.
- Cost efficiency: Eliminates the need for paper, printing, and postage, cutting operational costs.
- Enhanced security: Features like encryption and audit trails protect sensitive information and ensure compliance.
- Improved workflow: Integration with existing tools helps maintain a smooth and efficient document process.
- Environmental impact: Reduces paper usage, contributing to eco-friendly business practices.
- Global accessibility: Multi-language support and online signing allow teams to operate across borders without hassle.
- Increased productivity: Automated reminders and bulk sending free up time for more value-added tasks.
Costs and Pricing of Free eSignature Software
Selecting free eSignature software requires an understanding of the various pricing models and plans available. Costs vary based on features, team size, add-ons, and more. The table below summarizes common plans, their average prices, and typical features included in free eSignature software solutions:
Plan Comparison Table for Free eSignature Software
| Plan Type | Average Price | Common Features |
|---|---|---|
| Free Plan | $0 | Basic electronic signatures, limited document storage, and basic security features. |
| Personal Plan | $5-$15/user/month | Enhanced document storage, audit trails, and priority support. |
| Business Plan | $20-$40/user/month | Bulk sending, custom branding, and integration with business apps. |
| Enterprise Plan | $50-$100/user/month | Advanced security features, dedicated account manager, and personalized onboarding and training. |
Free eSignature Software FAQs
Here are some answers to common questions about free eSignature software:
Can I use free eSignature software for legal documents?
Yes, you can use free eSignature software for legal documents, but make sure the software complies with regulations like ESIGN and UETA in the U.S. These ensure that electronic signatures are legally binding. Check if the software provides audit trails and encryption to protect your documents.
How secure is free eSignature software?
Free eSignature software can be secure if it offers features like encryption, password protection, and audit trails. You should verify if the provider complies with security standards and regulations. Always read reviews and check for any security certifications before choosing a tool.
What documents can I sign with free eSignature software?
You can sign various documents like contracts, agreements, and forms with free eSignature software. Most tools support popular file formats such as PDFs, Word documents, and Excel sheets. Ensure the software you choose supports the specific document types you need to handle.
Are there limits on the number of documents I can sign?
Many free eSignature tools have limits on the number of documents you can sign per month. These limits vary, so check the provider’s terms to understand any restrictions. If your needs exceed the free tier, you might consider upgrading to a paid plan for more flexibility.
Do I need to install software to use free eSignature tools?
Most free eSignature tools are web-based, meaning you don’t need to install software on your device. You can access them through a web browser. However, some providers offer desktop or mobile apps for added convenience, so consider your workflow preferences when choosing.
Can I integrate free eSignature software with other tools?
Yes, many free eSignature solutions offer integrations with other tools like CRM systems, cloud storage, and productivity apps. Check the software’s integration capabilities to ensure it fits with your existing tech stack. Seamless integration can enhance your workflow and productivity.
What’s Next:
If you're in the process of researching free eSignature software, connect with a SoftwareSelect advisor for free recommendations.
You fill out a form and have a quick chat where they get into the specifics of your needs. Then you'll get a shortlist of software to review. They'll even support you through the entire buying process, including price negotiations.
