10 Best E-signature Software Shortlist
Here's my pick of the 10 best software from the 23 tools reviewed.
With so many different e-signature software available, figuring out which is right for you is tough. You know you want to streamline various document signing processes but need to figure out which tool is best. I've got you! In this post I'll help make your choice easy, sharing my personal experiences using dozens of different e-signature tools with a variety of clients and projects, with my picks of the best e-signature software.
Why Trust Our E-signature Software Reviews?
We’ve been testing and reviewing e-signature software since 2022. As revenue operation leaders ourselves, we know how critical and difficult it is to make the right decision when selecting software.
We invest in deep research to help our audience make better software purchasing decisions. We’ve tested more than 2,000 tools for different RevOps use cases and written over 1,000 comprehensive software reviews. Learn how we stay transparent & our e-signature software review methodology.
| Tools | Price | |
|---|---|---|
| SignNow | From $8/user/month | Website |
| pdfFiller | $20/month | Website |
| DocHub | From $10/month | Website |
| Lightico | Pricing upon request | Website |
| CocoSign | From $12/month | Website |
| DottedSign | From $8/user/month | Website |
| SignRequest | From $9/month | Website |
| DigiSigner | From $12/month (billed annually) | Website |
| Signaturely | From $20/month; API plans start at $49/month | Website |
| GetAccept | From $25/user/month | Website |
Compare Software Specs Side by Side
Use our comparison chart to review and evaluate software specs side-by-side.
Compare SoftwareHow To Choose E-signature Software
With so many different e-signature software solutions available, it can be challenging to make decisions on what tool is going to be the best fit for your needs.
As you're shortlisting, trialing, and selecting e-signature software, consider the following:
- What problem are you trying to solve - Start by identifying the e-signature software feature gap you're trying to fill to clarify the features and functionality the tool needs to provide.
- Who will need to use it - To evaluate cost and requirements, consider who'll be using the software and how many licenses you'll need. You'll need to evaluate if it'll just be the revenue operation leaders or the whole organization that will require access. When that's clear, it's worth considering if you're prioritizing ease of use for all or speed for your e-signature software power users.
- What other tools it needs to work with - Clarify what tools you're replacing, what tools are staying, and the tools you'll need to integrate with, such as accounting, CRM, or HR software. You'll need to decide if the tools will need to integrate together or if you can replace multiple tools with one consolidated e-signature software.
- What outcomes are important - Consider the result that the software needs to deliver to be considered a success. Consider what capability you want to gain or what you want to improve, and how you will be measuring success. For example, an outcome could be the ability to get greater visibility into performance. You could compare e-signature software features until you’re blue in the face but if you aren’t thinking about the outcomes you want to drive, you could be wasting a lot of valuable time.
- How it would work within your organization - Consider the software selection alongside your workflows and delivery methodology. Evaluate what's working well and the areas that are causing issues that need to be addressed. Remember every business is different — don’t assume that because a tool is popular that it'll work in your organization.
Best E-signature Software Reviews
Here, you can expect to find my evaluation and comparison of the best e-signature software options. You’ll see key features, the reasons behind why I chose a particular software, a pricing overview, and a screenshot that provides a glimpse into the inner workings of the platform. Use these various explanations to create your own comparison chart and choose your tool.
SignNow is a digital platform that allows users to send, sign, and manage documents electronically. The service provides a method for creating electronic signatures, which can be applied to documents using a variety of devices. Users can upload documents, designate where signatures are required, and then send these documents to the necessary parties for signing.
Why I picked SignNow: SignNow provides a secure environment for signing documents, with compliance to industry standards such as HIPAA, GDPR, and more. Additionally, SignNow offers features for creating templates, which can be used to standardize documents and save time on repetitive tasks. The software also supports team collaboration, enabling multiple users to work on documents simultaneously.
SignNow Standout Features and Integrations
Standout features include integrations with payment systems to collect payments during the signing process; bots to automate repetitive tasks within document workflows; and the ability to send documents to one or multiple signers, who can sign electronically.
Integrations include Google Workspace, Oracle, Jitterbit, 1Password, Grooper, ServiceNow, SharePoint, Pipedrive, Slack, and MailChimp.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Advanced mobile and tablet experience
- Valuable for creating a paperless office
- Simplifies adding signatures and fields to documents
Cons:
- Customer support services could be improved
- Occasional crashes
pdfFiller is a comprehensive online document management platform that enables users to edit, sign, and share PDF documents and forms. It offers a variety of features such as a PDF editor, form builder, document converter, and electronic signature capabilities.
Why I picked pdfFiller: pdfFiller allows users to upload documents to the platform or request them from others, then add their electronic signature by dragging and dropping it into the document. This feature also supports personalization of signatures and initials, and allows for tracking and managing of signed documents. The signatures collected are legally binding and the process is designed to eliminate the need for physical document handling.
pdfFiller Standout Features and Integrations
Standout Features include a suite of document management tools, including a Forms Library with IRS tax forms and document templates, as well as a PDF search engine for easy document retrieval. pdfFiller also features compliance with GDPR and HIPAA, the ability to sign documents digitally, and no-code document workflows through airSlate.
Integrations include Salesforce, Google Drive, Office 365, Confluence, Slack, Xero, Box, Zoho, Dropbox, and WordPress.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Helps save time and money
- User-friendly design
- Documents can be password protected
Cons:
- Some formatting issues when converting PDFs to Word
- Advanced features require a steep learning curve
DocHub is a software for editing, sending, and signing PDF documents online. It streamlines document management with intuitive tools and cloud-based convenience.
Why I picked DocHub: DocHub's unique integration with Gmail stands out. Users can sign and fill out PDFs directly from their Gmail account, a feature that is especially convenient for those who manage a significant amount of their professional communication through email. This integration streamlines the process of receiving, signing, and sending back documents without ever leaving the Gmail interface.
DocHub Standout Features and Integrations
Standout Features include extensive PDF editing and annotation capabilities. Users can alter text, add images, and insert various annotations directly into the PDF, making it particularly useful for detailed document revisions and collaborative editing, beyond just adding signatures. DocHub offers real-time collaboration features, allowing multiple users to edit and annotate the same document simultaneously.
Integrations include Box, Dropbox, Gmail, Google Classroom, Google Contacts, Google Drive, Microsoft Edge, OneDrive, ActiveCampaign, 6sense, Adobe Sign, Adobe Analytics, 3dcart, Amazon Pay, Airtable, Basecamp, Bubble PPM, and hundreds more across software categories like project management, marketing, CMS, accounting, ecommerce, time tracking, customer service, and others.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Real-Time collaboration features
- Tons of integrations options
- Comprehensive PDF editing and annotation
Cons:
- Mobile optimization could be better
- Limited docs with free version
Lightico
Best for consumer-focused customer journeys with mobile-friendly forms
This in-call document e-signature solution enables your agents to capture customer IDs, complete smart forms, share images, process payments, and collect e-signatures in real time while talking to a customer on the phone. This platform claims to have a 20% higher completion rate than many other platforms on the market, such as Legacy eSign or HelloSign.
Why I picked Lightico: What caught my eye here is that Lightico is specifically designed for customers to use while they’re on the phone with a representative that needs to capture their information or consent. Your agents can guide and encourage customers in real-time on a mobile-friendly app that does everything they need in one place.
Lightico Standout Features and Integrations
Standout features include SMS functionality to send customers a secure e-signature link, responsive, mobile-friendly design that requires no training for customers to use, supports adding documents and images, and has an audit and compliance trail for identity verification and security.
Integrations include NICE CXone, Salesforce, and Scrile Connect. Contact Lightico for information on other integrations.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Designed for real-time use
- Fully integrated with Salesforce
- ADA compliant platform
Cons:
- Requires internet accessibility
- Limited integrations
CocoSign is an e-signature tool with a focus on simplicity and accessibility. It’s a HIPAA-compliant, cloud-based system for SMBs and professionals that they claim is the easiest alternative to DocuSign. Some of the features that promote faster signing and more efficiency include reminders, updates, and real-time tracking, as well as templates and bulk sending.
Why I picked CocoSign: There are a couple of e-signature platforms on here that have this feature, but CocoSign has prioritized their bulk sending tool by making it easier for you to send one-click signature requests to multitudes by uploading a single signer list all at once instead of entering each email one by one. They’ve streamlined bulk sending even more by eliminating manual entry.
CocoSign Standout Features and Integrations
Standout features include signing links to collect signatures faster, customized branding for better consistency, in-person signing capabilities, an audit trail to record and validate signing history, and bulk sending to multiple recipients.
Integrations include DropBox Business, Google Drive, Gmail, G-Suite, Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel, and OneDrive. CocoSign acts as an add-on in documents and opens each time you start a new document.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Mobile-friendly interface
- Low barrier to entry
- Free plan that allows unlimited signatures
Cons:
- No bulk deleting of documents
- No mobile app
As a cloud-based electronic signature tool, DottedSign provides solutions for small and medium businesses, as well as startups. It’s a mobile signing solution that streamlines document workflows by allowing you to monitor signatures from anywhere all in one place. Create and track signing tasks from this electronic signature solution’s dashboard.
Why I picked DottedSign: The main reason DottedSign caught my eye was their promise of high-level identity authentication and signature validation. All signed documents are issued digital certificates by an AATL supported CA. You also get more confidentiality with encryption through TLS/SSL, RSA-2048, and AES-256 capabilities.
DottedSign Standout Features and Integrations
Standout features include the ability to import contracts and proposals from the cloud or from local files; automated reminders for easier follow-ups on open tasks; accessibility on smartphones, Macs, and other desktops; and permissions and passwords to ensure only the right people access documents.
Integrations include thousands of options through Zapier — no coding required.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Can edit documents on mobile
- User-friendly platform
- More comprehensive free option
Cons:
- Limited template options
- Cost is per user
SignRequest is a digital e-signature platform that only includes the features you absolutely need. With their tiered offerings, you can pare down to just the essentials or enjoy a more comprehensive plan that includes advanced sending, automation, and tracking tools like bulk sending, templates, customized branding, and SMS verification.
Why I picked SignRequest: SignRequest has one feature I rarely saw anywhere else — a custom landing page after signing. For Professional and Business plan tiers, you can create a landing page with your own URL, additional follow-up information, and thank-you message to complete the customer journey.
SignRequest Standout Features and Integrations
Standout features include the ability to sign on any device and a secure audit trail that links user IPs to their activities. Higher tiers offer advanced features like notifications, order of signing, and attachments.
Integrations include B-ware, Formdesk, Google Drive, Google Workspaces, Juridoc, M-Files, Slack, and TOPdesk. Connect with over 2,000 apps through Zapier.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Intuitive navigation
- One-click signing
- Simple user interface
Cons:
- Trial requires a credit card
- Could use more customer support
Best free e-signature software for freelancers and small operations
At the free level, DigiSigner offers just the basics: three documents per month, one sender, and multiple signers. However, at higher pricing levels, this turns into a more comprehensive contract management software with unlimited templates, custom branding, team features, and convenient signing links. DigiSigner is HIPAA compliant and works on all devices.
Why I picked DigiSigner: The thing that caught my eye here is that DigiSigner has a free version and a low-cost tier that makes it accessible to smaller businesses. But it also has another unique feature that not every software has. And that’s the capability to sign the way you want. DigiSigner ensures handwritten mouse signatures and uploaded images are equally legally binding.
DigiSigner Standout Features and Integrations
Standout features include Android and iPhone compatibility for more accessibility, branded templates at higher tiers for more official-looking documents, and the ability to invite people to access a document to ensure only those that are allowed can look at and sign the paperwork.
Integrations include DropBox Business, Gmail, Google Drive, Rentopian, and TracxTMS. DigiSigner also has an API feature ($0.50 per document) that embeds documents for signing on your website and allows you to send signature requests via email.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Easy to learn
- Simple dashboard
- Free and low-cost option
Cons:
- Limited free documents
- Audit log is messy when downloaded
A simple e-signature solution, Signaturely still offers a pretty comprehensive automation system that helps businesses upload, send, and customize digital documents. You can type your name, draw your signature, or upload an image all in the app — even allowing your team to enter and collaborate before finalizing any draft.
Why I picked Signaturely: This signature app caught my eye because of a unique feature that guides signees through any digital document to ensure every single area that needs to be signed is completed. You no longer have to worry that any part of a long document is left unsigned or un-initialed with this feature because it will do the work for you.
Signaturely Standout Features and Integrations
Standout features include guided signing with field creation; team collaboration on any PDF document before sending; free contract templates for legal documents, work contracts, and other business needs; and legal audit logging that tracks all changes.
Integrations include Box, DropBox Business, Excel, Gmail, Google Drive, HubSpot, OneDrive, and Slack. Thousands of apps are available through Zapier. However, you should note that the API plan is separate from the regular plan with different features and limitations.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Sustainable, green giving
- Hassle-free learning curve
- User-friendly interface
Cons:
- Limited templates unless you pay for the highest tier
- Free plan only allows one document per month
GetAccept strives to be an all-in-one solution for e-signatures, proposal creation, contract management, collateral management, and document tracking. It enables collaboration between sales, HR, and customer success teams and allows you to invite prospects into your workspace for simplified communication, meetings, and chatting.
Why I picked GetAccept: One of the unique features that caught my attention with this platform was the Deal Room capability, where you create a room with the right template for your sales process, personalize the content, invite your prospects with a link, and collaborate on an action plan or proposal in real-time within the same shared workspace.
GetAccept Standout Features and Integrations
Standout features include e-signature capabilities with customized workflows and automated reminders, Deal Rooms where you can collaborate with stakeholders in real time and Deal Boards where you can track all active Deal Rooms, proposal and contract creation, and document tracking and management.
Integrations include Chargebee, Facebook Business, FreshSales, HubSpot, Microsoft Dynamics, Perfect Audience, Pipedrive, Salesforce, Slack, and SuperOffice. Connect over 500 integrations to your tech stack.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Comprehensive set of tools
- No training needed
- Simple user interface
Cons:
- No bulk upload for documents
- More expensive than other options
Other E-signature Software
Here are the runners-up for the best e-signature options, along with their best use-case.
- Xodo Sign
Best for integrating with your favorite apps and digital tools
- signNow by airSlate
Best for single and multi-party signing
- Scrive
Best signing platform for identification management
- Signwell
Best for reusing and resending popular documents
- Qwilr
Best for driving sales team revenue through proposal creation
- Box
Best for secure collaboration on any device, anywhere, any time
- SignEasy
Best e-signature tool for tracking and visibility
- CINCEL
Best e-signature platform for Mexico and South America
- PandaDoc
Best for overall simplicity of e-signature creation and management
- Dropbox Sign
Best comprehensive tools for freelancers and small businesses
- pdfFiller by airSlate
Best for working with PDFs as part of your workflow
- Jotform Sign
Best for automating e-signatures within your workflow
- Foxit eSign
Best e-signature software for scaling organizations
Related E-signature Software Reviews
If you still haven't found what you're looking for here, check out these tools closely related to e-signature software that we've tested and evaluated.
- CRM Software
- Sales Software
- Lead Management Software
- Business Intelligence Software
- Contract Management Software
- Revenue Management System
Selection Criteria For E-signature Software
Selecting the right e-signature software is crucial for enhancing the efficiency and security of document signing processes, particularly for organizations aiming to optimize their revenue operations. My methodology for evaluating these tools is rooted in firsthand experience and thorough research, ensuring that I recommend solutions that truly meet the needs of modern businesses.
Core E-signature Software Functionality: 25% of total weighting score
To be considered for inclusion on my list of the best e-signature software, the solution had to support the ability to fulfill common use cases:
- Legally binding signatures
- Multi-party signing
- Template creation and management
- Integration with CRM and document management systems
- Mobile accessibility and signing
Additional Standout Features: 25% of total weighting score
- Innovation in security and verification methods to ensure the authenticity of signatures.
- Advanced analytics features for tracking the usage and effectiveness of the platform.
- Enhanced customization options that allow businesses to tailor the software to their branding and workflow.
- Superior integration capabilities with a wider range of business tools beyond the typical CRM and productivity software.
- Features that facilitate global compliance, accommodating various international laws and standards.
Usability: 10% of total weighting score
- Intuitive design that minimizes the learning curve and enhances user engagement.
- Clear and responsive interface design, catering to users of varying technical proficiency.
- Accessibility features ensuring all users, regardless of disability, can efficiently use the software.
Onboarding: 10% of total weighting score
- Comprehensive resources such as training videos, help articles, and interactive tutorials.
- Availability of customer support through multiple channels during and after the onboarding process.
- Streamlined onboarding that gets users up and running with minimal downtime.
Customer Support: 10% of total weighting score
- Responsive and knowledgeable support teams accessible via multiple channels.
- Proactive customer service that offers help and resources to ensure users maximize the tool's value.
Value For Money: 10% of total weighting score
- Competitive pricing models that provide clear ROI for businesses of different sizes.
- Transparent pricing structures without hidden fees or charges.
Customer Reviews: 10% of total weighting score
- Positive feedback from existing users regarding reliability, functionality, and customer service.
- High ratings in user satisfaction and ease of use from reputable review platforms.
In selecting e-signature software, it is crucial to consider how each feature and functionality aligns with your organization's specific needs, ensuring that the tool not only facilitates secure and efficient signing processes but also integrates seamlessly into your broader revenue operations strategy.
Trends In E-signature Software For 2024
The latest trends in e-signature software highlight how these tools are becoming more integrated, user-friendly, and adaptable to various business needs, reflecting their critical role in modern digital workflows. Here's a concise overview of these trends, reflecting the changing needs and challenges faced by RevOps leaders.
Evolving Features in E-signature Software:
- Enhanced Security Measures: As cyber threats become more sophisticated, e-signature solutions are advancing their security protocols, ensuring that all transactions remain confidential and tamper-proof.
- Deeper Integration Capabilities: E-signature tools are increasingly offering deeper integration with a broader range of business systems, including CRM, ERP, and project management platforms, enabling seamless workflows and data synchronization.
- Mobile Optimization: With the rise of remote work and mobile business, e-signature software is enhancing its mobile capabilities, allowing users to sign documents from any device, anywhere, at any time.
Emerging Trends:
- AI and Machine Learning Integration: Some e-signature platforms are beginning to leverage AI and machine learning for advanced features like automated document analysis, fraud detection, and predictive analytics.
- Customization and Personalization: There is a growing trend towards offering more customizable and personalized experiences within e-signature platforms, allowing businesses to tailor the tools to their brand and specific operational needs.
Trends in Demand and Decline:
- In Demand: Features that enhance convenience, such as advanced document tracking, real-time notifications, and integrated payment options, are highly sought after.
- Declining: Less emphasis is being placed on overly complex features that do not contribute to the core functionality of e-signature processes or that complicate the user experience.
These trends demonstrate a clear direction toward making e-signature software more secure, integrated, and user-centric, addressing the key needs and challenges faced by businesses today. As organizations continue to adopt digital solutions, the evolution of e-signature technology will play a pivotal role in shaping efficient, sustainable, and compliant revenue operations.
What Is E-signature Software?
E-signature software is a digital tool that enables individuals and organizations to electronically sign documents and forms. It replaces traditional pen-and-paper signatures, providing a legal and secure method for signing digital documents. This software is widely used across various sectors for agreements, contracts, and other legal documents, allowing for electronic consent or approval.
The benefits of e-signature software include enhanced efficiency in document processing and cost savings by reducing the need for physical documents and in-person meetings. It offers improved security with verifiable signatures and audit trails, ensuring authenticity and compliance with legal standards. The convenience of e-signature software allows for signing documents from anywhere, at any time, which streamlines business transactions and workflows. It also supports eco-friendly practices by minimizing paper use.
Features Of E-signature Software
E-signature software has become a cornerstone technology for modern businesses, streamlining contract processes and enhancing workflow efficiency. When selecting e-signature software, it is crucial to evaluate its features against the backdrop of specific use cases and organizational needs, ensuring the chosen solution not only addresses current requirements but also adapts to future business landscapes.
- Legally Binding Signatures: The software must ensure that e-signatures are legally binding and compliant with relevant laws and regulations, providing the same legal standing as traditional handwritten signatures.
- Document Management: Efficient document management allows users to easily store, retrieve, and organize signed documents, enhancing accessibility and traceability.
- Integration Capabilities: Seamless integration with other business systems like CRM, ERP, and document storage solutions streamlines processes and reduces manual data entry.
- User Authentication: Ensures that individuals signing the documents are who they claim to be, providing an additional layer of security and authenticity.
- Audit Trails: The software should provide a comprehensive audit trail for each document, detailing every action taken, including who viewed or signed the document and when.
- Mobile Accessibility: With remote work on the rise, the ability to sign documents on various mobile devices ensures business continuity and flexibility.
- Customization Options: Customizable templates and branding options allow businesses to tailor the signing experience to their brand and specific needs.
- Scalability: The software should grow with your business, accommodating an increasing number of users and documents without compromising performance.
- Ease of Use: An intuitive interface ensures that all users, regardless of their technical proficiency, can easily navigate and use the software.
- Security Measures: Robust security features protect sensitive information from unauthorized access and cyber threats, ensuring data integrity and confidentiality.
By prioritizing these features, businesses can enhance their revenue operations, streamline administrative tasks, and provide a better experience for both employees and clients. It's about finding a balance between advanced functionalities and user-centric design to foster a productive and efficient signing process.
Benefits Of E-signature Software
E-signature software stands as a transformative tool for businesses, propelling them toward digital modernization and operational efficiency. By digitizing the signature process, companies can reap substantial benefits that resonate throughout their revenue operations and organizational structures.
- Accelerated Deal Closure: E-signature software significantly reduces the time taken to finalize agreements, enabling faster deal closure. This rapid processing time accelerates the sales cycle, enhancing revenue generation and customer satisfaction.
- Reduced Operational Costs: By eliminating the need for physical documents, e-signature software cuts down on printing, mailing, and storage expenses. This cost efficiency is particularly beneficial for businesses looking to optimize their budget allocations.
- Enhanced Security and Compliance: E-signature solutions offer robust security features and compliance with legal standards, ensuring the authenticity and integrity of signed documents. This security framework instills confidence among stakeholders and mitigates legal risks.
- Improved Customer Experience: Offering an e-signature option simplifies the signing process for clients, providing convenience and flexibility. This user-friendly approach can enhance client satisfaction and foster long-term business relationships.
- Streamlined Workflow: Integrating e-signature software into existing systems automates and streamlines workflows, reducing manual tasks and potential errors. This efficiency boost can significantly improve productivity and internal collaboration.
Costs & Pricing For E-signature Software
E-signature software has become a vital tool for businesses seeking to digitize their processes and improve operational efficiency. These solutions offer varying levels of features, scalability, and price points to cater to different business needs, ranging from small startups to large enterprises.
Understanding the various plan options available is crucial for selecting a tool that not only fits your current project requirements but also has the potential to scale with your organization's growth.
Plan Comparison Table For E-signature Software
| Plan Type | Average Price | Common Features Included |
|---|---|---|
| Basic | $10 - $25/user/month | Basic e-signing, limited document sends, essential integration |
| Professional | $25 - $40/user/month | Advanced e-signing, enhanced document sends, custom branding, integrations |
| Enterprise | Custom pricing | Advanced integrations, API access, higher security, dedicated support |
| Free | $0 | Very basic e-signing, limited number of documents per month |
When selecting an e-signature software plan, it is crucial for buyers to assess the specific needs of their business, considering factors like the volume of documents to be processed, the level of integration required, and any specific compliance or security needs. Balancing cost against these requirements will help ensure the selection of a solution that offers the best value for their investment.
E-signature Software Frequently Asked Questions
Do you still have more questions about e-signature software? Here are some top FAQs to help you gather all the facts.
What are the types of e-signature software?
How do I create an e-signature?
Is there free e-signature software?
Can e-signature software integrate with CRM systems?
How does e-signature software verify signer identity?
Are there options for bulk sending?
Additional Revenue Operations Software
If e-signature software isn’t the only digital item on your list of tools to explore, The RevOps Team can help with other summaries for the most popular related software:
- Contract Management Software
- CPQ Software
- What To Look For In Contract Management Software
- Contract Lifecycle Management (CLM): Stages, Tips And Best Practices
- Revenue Operations Software
- Free CRM Software
Conclusion
So now you have another digital tool to round out your arsenal and simplify your business operations. As you browse the options I’ve listed above, find the ones that best suit your budget and needs, but keep the others in mind as your business grows.
If this detailed breakdown of e-signature software was useful to you, you may want to get other updates on essential trends and tools in the world of revops. Get weekly articles and insights from the top experts in the field when you subscribe to our newsletter.