Introduction

eSignature software refers to digital platforms that allow individuals and organizations to execute agreements, contracts, and forms using an electronic signature. Unlike a simple image of a signature, professional eSignature tools create a cryptographic hash that tethers the signature to the document, ensuring that any subsequent alterations are immediately detectable. This technology is governed by strict global laws, such as the ESIGN Act and UETA in the United States, and eIDAS in the European Union.

The importance of these tools lies in their ability to collapse transaction times from days to minutes. Real-world use cases span across every major industry, including real estate closing documents, employment offer letters, non-disclosure agreements (NDAs), vendor contracts, and patient consent forms. When evaluating software in this category, users should look for ease of use for signers, robust audit trails, mobile accessibility, and native integrations with their existing productivity suites.

Best for: Sales teams, HR professionals, legal firms, real estate agents, and enterprise procurement departments. It is ideal for any organization that requires high-volume document execution or needs to maintain a defensible audit trail for compliance.

Not ideal for: Transactions in jurisdictions that specifically require “wet ink” signatures (such as certain high-value deeds or wills in specific countries) or for users who rarely handle documents and can rely on the limited free signing tools built into basic PDF viewers.

Top 10 eSignature Software Tools

1 — DocuSign

DocuSign is the most recognized name in the industry, holding the largest market share globally. It offers an extensive “Agreement Cloud” that covers the entire document lifecycle, from drafting to long-term storage.

• Key features:
  • Identity Verification: Advanced options including SMS, phone, and ID document verification.
  • Automated Workflows: Ability to route documents to multiple signers in a specific order.
  • Extensive Integration Library: Over 400+ pre-built integrations with Salesforce, Microsoft, and Google.
  • Responsive Signing: Documents automatically adapt their layout for mobile phone screens.
  • Payments Integration: Collect payments via Stripe or PayPal at the moment of signing.
  • Conditional Logic: Show or hide form fields based on the signer’s previous responses.
• Pros:
  • Unmatched brand recognition; signers trust the DocuSign interface.
  • The most robust feature set for enterprise-level complex document routing.
• Cons:
  • Pricing is significantly higher than most competitors.
  • The interface can feel overwhelming for very simple, one-off use cases.
• Security & compliance: SSO, 256-bit encryption, SOC 2 Type II, GDPR, HIPAA, and ISO 27001 compliant.
• Support & community: 24/7 global support, extensive “DocuSign University” for training, and a massive community of certified developers.

2 — Adobe Acrobat Sign

Part of the Adobe Document Cloud, Adobe Acrobat Sign is the preferred choice for organizations already invested in the Adobe ecosystem. It offers deep integration with Acrobat Pro and Microsoft 365.

• Key features:
  • Seamless Acrobat Integration: Send documents for signature directly from the Acrobat desktop app.
  • Microsoft Preferred: Deeply embedded in Microsoft Teams, Outlook, and SharePoint.
  • Mega Sign: Send one document to thousands of people simultaneously for individual signatures.
  • Web Forms: Embed signable forms directly onto your company website.
  • Custom Branding: High level of control over the “Look and Feel” of the signing experience.
• Pros:
  • Exceptional mobile app experience for both sending and signing on the go.
  • Bundled pricing for many Creative Cloud or Enterprise users adds great value.
• Cons:
  • Admin console can be complex to navigate for smaller teams.
  • Lower-tier plans lack some advanced features like advanced identity authentication.
• Security & compliance: FedRAMP, HIPAA, SOC 2 Type II, and eIDAS compliant.
• Support & community: Global enterprise support, extensive online documentation, and regular webinars.

3 — HelloSign (by Dropbox)

Now rebranded under the Dropbox family, HelloSign focuses on simplicity and a clean user interface. It is a favorite for startups and small-to-medium businesses (SMBs).

• Key features:
  • Dropbox Sync: Automatic storage of signed documents back into Dropbox folders.
  • Ease of Use: One of the fastest “time-to-send” workflows in the market.
  • Templates: Easy creation of reusable templates for common documents.
  • API Focus: One of the most developer-friendly APIs for embedding signatures into apps.
  • Reminders: Automated follow-up emails for signers who haven’t completed the task.
• Pros:
  • Extremely intuitive; requires virtually zero training for employees or signers.
  • Very competitive pricing for the features provided.
• Cons:
  • Lacks the deep “agreement lifecycle” management found in DocuSign.
  • Fewer integrations with high-end enterprise ERP systems.
• Security & compliance: SOC 2 Type II, HIPAA (on certain plans), and GDPR compliant.
• Support & community: Responsive chat support and a high-quality help center.

4 — PandaDoc

PandaDoc is more than just an eSignature tool; it is a document automation platform. It is designed for sales teams that want to create, send, and track proposals and contracts in one place.

• Key features:
  • Document Builder: Drag-and-drop editor to create beautiful, branded proposals.
  • Real-time Analytics: See how long a recipient spent on each page of your document.
  • Content Library: Store pre-approved text blocks, case studies, and images.
  • Native CRM Sync: Strongest bi-directional sync with HubSpot and Pipedrive.
  • Interactive Quotes: Allow signers to choose quantities or add-ons within the contract.
• Pros:
  • Dramatic improvement in sales closing speed due to interactive features.
  • Excellent free-tier that allows for unlimited document uploads and signatures.
• Cons:
  • The document builder has a learning curve compared to uploading a simple PDF.
  • Can be overkill if you only need basic eSignatures on static documents.
• Security & compliance: SOC 2 Type II, HIPAA, and GDPR compliant.
• Support & community: 24/7 live chat and an active “PandaDoc Academy” for user education.

5 — SignNow (by airSlate)

SignNow is part of the airSlate Business Cloud and focuses on providing enterprise-grade features at a mid-market price point. It is highly scalable and versatile.

• Key features:
  • Conditional Workflows: Complex routing based on data entered into the form.
  • Kiosk Mode: Use a tablet in a physical location to gather signatures in person.
  • Document Groups: Send a packet of different documents to one person in one go.
  • Bulk Dispatch: Efficiently send forms to large lists of recipients.
  • Smart Fields: Automatically detects where fields should go on an uploaded PDF.
• Pros:
  • Exceptional value for money; offers many “Pro” features on lower tiers.
  • Highly flexible mobile app for both iOS and Android.
• Cons:
  • The user interface can feel a bit more “functional” and less “polished” than HelloSign.
  • Some users report occasional delays in syncing with third-party storage.
• Security & compliance: PCI DSS, SOC 2 Type II, HIPAA, and GDPR compliant.
• Support & community: Extensive knowledge base and ticket-based customer support.

6 — Zoho Sign

Zoho Sign is the ideal choice for companies already using the Zoho ecosystem. It is deeply integrated into Zoho CRM, Zoho People, and Zoho Recruit.

• Key features:
  • Zoho Ecosystem Integration: One-click sending from almost any Zoho application.
  • Blockchain Timestamping: Uses public blockchain technology for an extra layer of document verification.
  • In-person Signing: Optimized for field workers and sales reps meeting clients face-to-face.
  • Recall/Edit: Ability to quickly correct and resend a document that is in progress.
  • Multi-language Support: Available in over 12 languages for global operations.
• Pros:
  • Extremely affordable, especially for existing Zoho customers.
  • Very clean and straightforward interface for signers.
• Cons:
  • Best value is locked behind the Zoho One suite; standalone value is lower.
  • Third-party integrations (outside Zoho) are not as numerous as DocuSign.
• Security & compliance: HIPAA, GDPR, ISO 27001, and SOC 2 compliant.
• Support & community: 24/5 support and a very active Zoho user forum.

7 — RightSignature (by Citrix)

RightSignature is owned by Citrix and focuses on simplicity and professional services. It is popular among accountants and healthcare providers who value speed and security.

• Key features:
  • Handwritten Signature Style: Allows signers to draw their signature for a more personal feel.
  • Step-by-step Navigation: Guides the signer to exactly where they need to click.
  • Plugin for ShareFile: Integrated directly into Citrix’s secure file sharing platform.
  • Custom Branding: Simple tools to add your logo and colors to emails.
  • Multi-document Sending: Send multiple files in a single signing package.
• Pros:
  • One of the fastest signing experiences for the end recipient.
  • Very high reliability and uptime as part of the Citrix infrastructure.
• Cons:
  • The interface has not been updated as frequently as competitors.
  • Pricing can be opaque for larger team plans.
• Security & compliance: SOC 2 Type II and HIPAA compliant. Uses 256-bit SSL encryption.
• Support & community: Dedicated technical support for Citrix customers.

8 — SignRequest

SignRequest focuses on the “Essential” market—businesses that want a reliable, legally binding signature without the bloat of enterprise features.

• Key features:
  • Public Signing Link: Create a link anyone can click to sign a specific document.
  • Team Management: Easy toggling between different company entities or departments.
  • Simple Integration: Connects with Zapier, Slack, and Google Drive.
  • Multilingual: Signers can view the interface in their native language.
  • Audit Log: Comprehensive, tamper-proof logs attached to every PDF.
• Pros:
  • Very low cost; one of the best “price-per-document” values.
  • Minimalist interface that ensures signers don’t get distracted.
• Cons:
  • Lacks advanced automation bots and complex conditional routing.
  • Not designed for high-end enterprise document lifecycle management.
• Security & compliance: ISO 27001 and GDPR compliant. Secure AWS hosting.
• Support & community: Email-based support and a detailed FAQ section.

9 — OneSpan Sign

OneSpan (formerly eSignLive) is the heavy-hitter for regulated industries. It is famously used by the U.S. Joint Chiefs of Staff and major global banks.

• Key features:
  • White-labeling: Completely remove OneSpan branding so the signer only sees your brand.
  • Visual Audit Trail: Records the actual signing process to prove how someone signed.
  • Flexible Deployment: Available as SaaS, on-premise, or in a private cloud.
  • Global Compliance: Supports Qualified Electronic Signatures (QES) for EU compliance.
  • Mobile SDK: Allows developers to build native signing into their own mobile apps.
• Pros:
  • The most defensible audit trail in the industry.
  • Highest level of security for government and financial institutions.
• Cons:
  • Complexity of setup is much higher than tools like HelloSign.
  • The interface is functional but not as modern-feeling as newer competitors.
• Security & compliance: FedRAMP, HIPAA, SOC 2, GDPR, and FIPS 140-2 compliant.
• Support & community: Dedicated enterprise account managers and 24/7 technical support.

10 — SignEasy

SignEasy is a mobile-first eSignature solution that focuses on the needs of the on-the-go professional. It is highly rated on both the iOS App Store and Google Play.

• Key features:
  • Offline Signing: Sign documents without an internet connection and sync later.
  • In-Person Signing: Optimized for tablets to allow clients to sign on-site.
  • Multi-format Support: Works with PDF, Word, Excel, Pages, and Images.
  • Digital Seals: Support for professional seals and stamps common in certain industries.
  • Drafts: Save your progress on a document and finish it later.
• Pros:
  • The best mobile application in the category for smaller devices.
  • Very quick and easy setup for freelancers and micro-businesses.
• Cons:
  • Desktop version is not as feature-rich as the mobile app.
  • Limited advanced workflow automation for large teams.
• Security & compliance: SOC 2 Type II, GDPR, and HIPAA compliant.
• Support & community: 24/7 email support and a helpful blog with industry-specific tips.

Comparison Table

Evaluation & Scoring of eSignature Software

Choosing the right eSignature software requires a balanced look at technical capability versus the actual needs of the business. We have scored these tools using a weighted rubric based on the current market priorities for 2025.

Which eSignature Software Tool Is Right for You?

Selecting an eSignature tool should be a strategic decision based on your company’s size and the volume of documents you process.

Solo Users vs SMB vs Mid-Market vs Enterprise

If you are a solo user (freelancer or contractor), PandaDoc’s free tier or SignEasy offer the best low-cost entry points. For SMBs, HelloSign or SignNow provide the best balance of features and cost. Mid-Market companies often find the most value in SignNow or Zoho Sign. Enterprises and government bodies should almost exclusively look at DocuSign, Adobe Sign, or OneSpan Sign due to their robust compliance and high-volume capabilities.

Budget-Conscious vs Premium Solutions

If budget is the primary driver, SignRequest and Zoho Sign offer the lowest cost per seat. If you are looking for a Premium solution that manages the entire agreement process (from AI-powered contract analysis to automated procurement), DocuSign is the clear leader.

Feature Depth vs Ease of Use

If you need complex, multi-stage “if-this-then-that” document routing, you need the depth of DocuSign or OneSpan. If you want a tool that your 70-year-old client can sign without calling you for tech support, HelloSign or RightSignature are the better choices.

Integration and Scalability Needs

If your company lives in Salesforce, DocuSign or PandaDoc have the most battle-tested integrations. If you are a Microsoft 365 shop, Adobe Sign is the path of least resistance.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Are electronic signatures legally binding?

Yes. In most developed countries, eSignatures carry the same legal weight as a handwritten signature. Laws like the ESIGN Act (USA) and eIDAS (EU) provide the legal framework for this.

2. What is the difference between an electronic signature and a digital signature?

An “electronic signature” is a broad term for any electronic process indicating acceptance. A “digital signature” is a specific, high-security type of eSignature that uses cryptographic technology to verify the signer’s identity and document integrity.

3. Can I sign a document on my phone?

Yes, almost all modern eSignature platforms are mobile-responsive or have dedicated apps (iOS/Android) that allow for easy signing on the go.

4. How much does eSignature software cost?

Pricing varies from free (for limited documents) to roughly $10–$60 per user per month. Enterprise plans for high-volume sending are usually custom-quoted.

5. What is an Audit Trail?

An audit trail is a document (often attached to the final PDF) that records every action taken—who opened it, when they signed it, their IP address, and their digital fingerprint. This is crucial for legal defensibility.

6. Do signers need an account to sign my documents?

No. In almost all cases, the signer simply clicks a link in their email and can sign without ever creating a login or password.

7. Can I collect payments with a signature?

Yes, tools like DocuSign, PandaDoc, and Adobe Sign allow you to integrate Stripe, Square, or PayPal to collect a deposit or full payment at the moment of signing.

8. Is my data safe in these apps?

Leading providers use 256-bit AES encryption and have SOC 2 Type II certifications. Your data is often significantly safer in these encrypted environments than it is sitting in a physical filing cabinet.

9. Can I use my own company branding?

Most “Business” or “Pro” plans allow you to add your logo, brand colors, and custom email messages so the signer experience feels like it’s coming directly from you.

10. What happens if I make a mistake on a document I already sent?

Most platforms allow you to “Void” or “Correct” a document. Voiding cancels it entirely, while correcting allows you to fix a typo and resend it to the same link.

Conclusion

The “best” eSignature software in 2025 is the one that removes the most friction from your specific business transactions. For the global enterprise, the power and reach of DocuSign are unrivaled. For the creative sales team, PandaDoc turns a dry contract into a persuasive proposal. For the developer and the SMB, the simplicity of HelloSign and the value of SignNow are the highlights.

When choosing, don’t just look at the price tag—look at the “Signer Experience.” If your clients find it easy to sign, you get paid faster and close more deals. Take advantage of free trials to send a test document to yourself on your mobile phone to see exactly what your customers will see.